Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens who need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap into an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. official site will help you make sure that the flap is at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
The name implies the cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
official source can be incorporated to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
Lastly think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline in 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
It is essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult 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 need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to determine the size of the hole you need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll have to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.