Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. 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 need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and all offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's important to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because 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 to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap in the door. upvc door panels with cat flap where you must drill using the pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.