Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are a lot of options there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing 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 a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre 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 provide additional security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
A window is another popular place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to install an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. visit the up coming internet site could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert 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.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out 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 circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Finally, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.
It's time to install your cat 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 not too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using the pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.