Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens that need to be vetted There are plenty of options out there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix into.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's wide enough for them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole click here in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and all offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are square read more or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
Lastly, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in too.
After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to read more make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
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 instance it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to determine the dimensions of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete themselves, although you'll likely require the help of an expert get more info for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas where you must drill using a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at check here a very low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.