Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security or you have kittens that need to be examined.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its 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 plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to install, though 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 use a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to install an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to.
Lastly think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through too.
After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Next, use your saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If possible, use a template to help you determine the size of hole you need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can do by themselves, though you will likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. cat flap installer near me will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark 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 the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.