Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are a lot of options 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 do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent on harming them.
You can install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap in an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. 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. Always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many different cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There are different sizes available 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 size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Lastly consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering the read more room, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for doing any DIY click here 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, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this more info instance it's likely that you'll 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 from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After 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 aid. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it on the form of a more info glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be made for the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using the pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need here be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.