Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are doors with cat flap for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. cat flap installer near me is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.
You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap onto the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. cat flap installer near me will ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face or limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your window or door
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
A cat flap can be incorporated to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and they all have different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the cheapest. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to move easily through it.