Fitting A Cat Flap

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 kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors with cat flap are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the window or door, and that it's big 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 any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face, and limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

This kind of cat flap in bifold doors flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply 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. The flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat flap installation bristol is not able to traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

A cat flap could be incorporated into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flap installers near me flaps on the market and each one comes with different 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 guests or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.

There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.

It's time to install your cat flap double glazing flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure 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 out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this case, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Check out the directions that came with the Cat Flap (Postheaven.Net). There is an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Mark the areas in which you will have to drill using pencil.

After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.