Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a great step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap to the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the correct 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 run your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
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 cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure your window or door
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave whenever it wants. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. They can be locked that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to put an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. cat flap cost near me could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once cat flap installation in glass doors near me are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this instance, you'll probably need to fit 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 the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill with a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.