Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening there are a lot of options there to choose from. It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy. Select the Right Door or Windows There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one. Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them. It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to. To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap into the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape. Find out the size of your cat's belly You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and exit easily. Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for. You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended. Make sure you measure your window or door As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to enter or leave whenever it wants. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside. A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it. Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through your home's walls. Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You. There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture. There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to. Also, think about the mechanism for opening 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 stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well. Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws. Prepare the Tools As with any DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap, tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window. If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass. For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to identify the size of the hole you need to cut. After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap! Install the Flap The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a simple process that most people can complete by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door. Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Then, mark the areas where you have to drill using the pencil. After you have mapped out 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 task, but you will have to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to do it yourself. Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.