Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads which could be visible on their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into the 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 are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could also be fitted to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
Lastly think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and an excellent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In cat flap installer near me that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will need to be comfortable using the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.