Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there for you.

Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they get chased by another Cat Flap Installation Bristol or by humans intent to hurt them.

You can install an egress flap inside the form of a upvc door panel with cat flap door or a glass window however, it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Take a measurement of your window or door

As the name suggests, this type of cat flap cost near me flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing friends or Cat flap installation Bristol other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

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

Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the cheapest. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with a 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 of the cat flap. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

Like any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.