Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
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 new kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. However, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the material you put into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start 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 install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat here flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it website won't stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
As with any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a get more info drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this case, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it check here is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come at will, installing flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the read more fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.