Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap near a window or door that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and what you're fixing 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 doors. 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 dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
A window is another popular place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
As with any DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you require.
After you have cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. cat flap cost is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. 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 be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using a pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.