Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening There are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or humans who want to hurt them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and what you fix to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the window or door, and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. The flaps can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. cat flap installer near me are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.