Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and needs extra security, or you have kittens who need to be examined.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If glass cat flap installation near me will also provide them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap onto a wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in a cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will help you make sure that the flap is at the right height on the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave whenever it wants. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There are various sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you'll likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be made for the flap in the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.