Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are a lot of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap installer near me flap may be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it is for your cat flap installation to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat flap installer near me will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to return inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat flap cost near me's belly measurement
In order to put in the right 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 the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Measure Your Door or Window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed 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 pressing on either side. They are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are various sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with 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 composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case you'll need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you'll likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will require a good understanding of a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.