Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It's 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 home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to get back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and all offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts in too.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the right tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this instance, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. 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. This is a simple process that most people can do on their own, but you may require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using the pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. upvc door panels with cat flap should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.
upvc door panels with cat flap
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