Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted There are plenty of options out there for you.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out 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 train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by a human intent to harm them.
You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
To do cat flap step , place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy - these could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. similar website helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Finally consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Prepare 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, a tape measure and a good 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 to become damaged. In this scenario you'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing a flap can help. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will must drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however you'll need be comfortable with the Jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.