FITTING A CAT FLAP

Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be checked.

Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens to an area of protection in the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them into.

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 installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can opt for more info ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.

There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square get more info or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.

Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes website for screws.

Make the Tools

As with all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need read more to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have here to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in using a pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.

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