Fitting A Cat Flap

From Shiapedia

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various 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 the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you are Fitting A Cat Flap the flap to an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window

Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. You should 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 protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your house.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are many cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to.

Finally think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an option and is usually the cheapest. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.

It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window cat flap.

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 scenario, it's likely that 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 the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you require.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap installation bristol flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you will likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of upvc door panel replacement cat flap door.

Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into with the pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.

The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap fitters near me flap to the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.