Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.
You can put a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap into the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in the right cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height for the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, put 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, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Measure your windows or doors
Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to enter or leave whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for cables and read more pipes. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they have various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from entering and you may let draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided click here by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you need.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door read more and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you may require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using the saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for cat flaps for french doors you at a minimal cost.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It might upvc cat flap door panels be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.