Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps available, 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. 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.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human who wants to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is at the correct height on the door or window and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your window or door
The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a click here high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals website to block draughts and moisture.
There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the read more door's outline. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file check here and the jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If check here you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with a pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.