Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and needs extra security or you have kittens who need to be vetted. Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy. Select the Right Door or Window There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one. Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they're chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them. It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into. To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap into an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape. Take a look at your cat's belly measurement You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and that it's big enough for him to get in and leave easily. To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics. Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm. Take a measurement of your door or window This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside. A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it. It is possible to install a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house. Choose the right cat flap There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out moisture and draughts. There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to. Also, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. cat flap installation repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk will not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts. It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws. Make the Tools Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap along with tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door. Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass. You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. If possible, use an outline to help mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut. After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap! Install the Flap If you want your cat to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you will likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door. Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using pencil. After you've marked the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself. Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.