Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening There are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If they are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
Finally think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap, tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case you'll need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help determine the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After cat flap installers near me www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you'll likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas where you need to drill with pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however you'll need be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.