Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening There are plenty of options out there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's easy to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
You can install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.
To avoid costly errors, 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 on an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will help you make sure that the flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these could be visible on their lower back, face and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Measure mouse click the following web site or Window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to.
Also consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this instance it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you identify the size of hole you will need to cut.
After upvc door panel cat flap cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill with the pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. upvc door panel cat flap might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then 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 cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can move easily through it.