Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Depending on cat flaps for french doors of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in case they are chased by another cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you are fitting the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also consider 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 size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps 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 people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block wind and rain. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.