Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.
To do cat flap installer , place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face and limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and all offer different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy 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 for doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the size of hole you need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you'll likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with pencil.
After you've marked the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can get in and out of it.