Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that require to be vetted.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.
You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing to.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps read more are also often employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts through too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this fitting cat flap in upvc door panel may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you need.
After you've cut read more the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the click here Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. here This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas that you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.