Installing a cat flap into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that require to be examined.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap into the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
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's size. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and also that it's large 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 and face, as well as the legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. repairmywindowsanddoors is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many different cat flaps available and they all have different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an option and is usually the cheapest. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in too.
After you've chosen the correct 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 your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Draw 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. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you identify the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any future water damage or rust. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.