Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be vetted.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by a cat or by a human intent to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
Place glass cat flap installation near me www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face, and limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This 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 there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Lastly, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the least expensive. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to identify the size of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. Most people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you must drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part 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 outer section 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 make sure that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.