Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're chased by other animals or human who wants to hurt them.
You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various 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 a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap into a wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and come with different features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
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 or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will here not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't back door with cat flap fitted too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing a read more composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable cat flap fitting near me price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion doors with cat flap of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.