Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be examined.

Installing a cat flap double glazing flap can be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or humans who want to harm them.

It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting a cat flap (Check Out delphi.larsbo.org) the flap in an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height on the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, Fitting A Cat Flap place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

The name implies the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.

A cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good option and is usually the cheapest. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap installer flap. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

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

If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or upvc door panel with cat flap 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. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you require.

After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. 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 can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll need to drill with pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to do it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer part of the 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's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.