Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to place the cat flap inside a window or door that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs here and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into cat flap fitting near me your walls.
Choose the click here Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through too.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of check here the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and an Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making get more info any changes, since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help identify the size of hole you have to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with a 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 job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to move easily through it.