프로젝트 개요3 | Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require to be examined.

Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your Cat Flap Installation Bristol is to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a replacement upvc door panel with cat flap door or a glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite door cat flap doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and what you fix to.

If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting a cat flap the flap on the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from 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. The flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

Cat flaps can be incorporated to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as 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. If there are, then there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.

There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick 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 least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. 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're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It is essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this scenario it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. This is a straightforward process that most people can do by themselves, though you may require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with the 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. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with pencil.

After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work 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. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then place the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.