Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security or if you have kittens who need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to think about 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 house It is recommended to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
If mouse click the next web site installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to 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 install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the correct height on 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 run your fingers across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.
After her explanation 've chosen the right cat flap and measured the window or door, it's time to fit it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
If 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 an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. If you can, use a template to help you identify the size of hole you have to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with pencil.
After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however you'll need be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.