Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old 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 can be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap inside 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 allow them to return 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 isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix to.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap in an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your 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 exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Measure your door or window
As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. If they are, a hole needs to be created for them and 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-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also let in draughts.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window, it's more info time to fit it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. read more Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're more info installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any check here water damage or rust from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go at more info will, installing flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish themselves, although you'll likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in with pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part of the door 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 waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.