Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check 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 proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your
Cat Flap Installation Bristol to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it, so that they become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is at the correct height on the window or door, and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. 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 how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested
cat flap bifold doors flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
The name implies the cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps can be locked that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to put an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different
cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or
upvc door panels cat flap doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help determine the size of hole you have to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish on their own, but you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of
upvc cat flap door panels door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into with pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.
