Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human who wants to harm them.
You can put the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and what you fix to.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your window or door
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to enter or leave whenever it wants. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options that provide additional security which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to make a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and come with various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
Finally think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In cat flap fitting near me , it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using the pencil.
After you've marked the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll have to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.