Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening, there are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by a human intent to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap onto a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides a way for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose more info constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall upvc door panel with cat flap for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. Some are equipped with security more info features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Finally think about the opening mechanism that website your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and a jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require a jigsaw to cut out check here your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can do on their own, but you may require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap on the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.