Fitting a Cat Flap
Getting a cat flap fitted inside 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 new kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there for you. It can be difficult for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors. Choose the Right Door or Windows There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one. Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or humans who want to hurt them. It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix to. To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap onto an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape. Find out the size of your cat's belly To install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily. To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics. Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm. Make sure you measure your door or window This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside. A window is a common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it. It is possible to insert an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. If they are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls. Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You. There are many cat flaps on the market, and they come with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. cat flap fitters near me prevent your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts. There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to. Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well. It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a 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 for the flap for cats. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws. Prepare the Tools It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors). Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this case you'll need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead. You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you require. After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap! Install the Flap If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door. Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll must drill using a pencil. After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will do this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself. The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.