Installing a cat flap your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires additional security or you have kittens that need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to consider 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 usually best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're chased by other animals or human who wants to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to install an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they come with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There is also Repair My Windows And Doors UK of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.
Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap is likely to have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you require.
After you have cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, 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. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas in which you will must drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.