Let your cat go inside and out of your home independently by using the cat flap. This allows your pet to move around freely and encourages exercise. It also helps prevent obesity and reduces boredom.
Taskers can install cat flaps in wooden or uPVC doors Some can also work with wall installations. They will begin by marking the position of the door, then drilling around its corners.
How to install a Cat Flap
A cat flap allows your pet to go out without having to open the door or window. This is great if are working late or concerned about leaving your cat home for an extended period of time. There are many different types of cat flaps available. Some even allow you to pre-program the time your cat can enter and exit. Some flaps feature magnets to facilitate opening and closing. The most important thing to do is choose the right cat flap suitable to your pet's and home's needs.
Although it is possible to install a cat flap yourself however, it's usually better to employ a Tasker to complete the job for you. This will ensure the flap is fitted correctly and sealed to stop unwanted draughts into your home. There are many Taskers who specialize in cat flap installation, so you'll be able to locate one close to you who can install your pet's brand new entrance.
Getting a Tasker to fit your cat flap can be as easy as posting a request on Airtasker. You'll need to specify the type of cat flap you want along with your postcode and address to locate local pet Taskers. You can contact them to discuss your project and set an appointment time and date.
The average cost for cat flap installation starts at PS100. This can vary depending on the kind of cat flap you choose to install and the size of your wall or door. It's worth noting that certain Taskers offer more specialized services, including installing smart cat flaps you can program to allow in your cat at certain times throughout the day.
If you're planning to install a cat flap in your uPVC or composite door, it's usually recommended to work with a specialist. This is because these doors are made of stronger materials that can be difficult to cut using a power tool. A professional will be able to employ their tools in a safe and controlled manner to avoid damaging your door or walls.
You could also consider an animal-door that is connected to your garden or home instead of your front door. They are more expensive, but offer an extra-secure and safer option for your cat.
Safety
A cat flap can provide an easy way for your pet to go and come as it pleases. However, you should make sure you are taking safety precautions to keep unwanted intrusions into your home. Installing motion-activated lights near the door will warn you of any potential intruders and frighten them away. You can even add an animal-shaped sign on your front door to signal anyone intruders know that you're not trustworthy and have pets.
The first step in installing the cat flap is to prepare the door for the new opening. Take out all the old hardware from the door and sand down the edges to smooth the edges. This will help to prevent your cat from snooping through the gap and gaining access to your house. This will protect the door from the elements of wind and rain. You can achieve this with the use of fine-grit sandpaper.
Once the door is prepared it is time to begin cutting and drilling it to make the cat flap. Use a jigsaw blade that isn't very fast and does not produce a lot of dust when drilling and cutting your door. If possible wear a mask and goggles to avoid inhaling the dust particles. These tools will allow you to finish the job faster and also ensure your safety.
There are many types of cat flaps. However, the classic one with two-way pet door is the most common. This kind of cat flap is very easy to install and is used by all cats in the neighborhood. You can also install a microchip cat flap which recognizes your pet's electronic tag, allowing access only to the owner. These doors are more expensive, but safer than traditional flaps.
Another option is to place a cat flap in the garage door. This will stop your cats fighting over the litter box or food in the garage. This type of door can be put in easily in the form of a wooden or uPVC door, however it might require a professional installation in the case of a panelled door. You can also buy a fire rated pet door for the garage that will comply with fire and building codes.
Security
You should consider some security measures when installing a cat flap in your home. For instance, you should, make sure the flap isn't too large and is locked at night. This will prevent heat from escaping and keep animals out of your home. Cat flaps that are smart let you program the time that your cat can leave the house. This is useful if you're late for work or stuck in traffic.
If your cat hasn't been used to using an outdoor litter box then it might need to use it indoors for a little while. Once it becomes accustomed to using an outdoor litter tray and encourage it to use it at least twice each day. This keeps your cat physically and mentally stimulated. This will also decrease the chance of accidents occurring in the home. It will also decrease how much cat litter you will need to buy.
A microchip cat door is a different option to provide a higher level of security. This type of cat door has microchips that scan your cat's coat. It will only allow your cat to enter your house in the event that the microchip matches the code stored in the pet's door's memory. You can even program the pet door to allow entry for more than one microchip. This can be a good option for households with multiple cats or if you live in a crowded area.
Magnetic cat flaps are also available, which stop access with magnets. They are effective, but they are not as secure as microchips cat flaps. They are also less reliable and can fail in extreme weather conditions, such as freezing temperatures. In addition, you'll need a magnetic collar that is specifically designed to use these cat flaps.
It is important to hire an expert to install the cat flap since they have the equipment and knowledge needed to do the job correctly. Attempting to do it yourself could result in a poorly fitted cat flap that invites drafts and is an easy entry point for burglars. You may also injure your cat.
Training
It could take some time for your cat or kitten to get used to a flap. During the initial training it is advised to open the door. You can use toys or treats to encourage your cat to go through the opening. This will increase their confidence and help them feel more at ease. If you have a fearful or nervous cat try putting the flap inside a cardboard box and using cling film to simulate the opening. This will boost their confidence prior to installation. Avoid forcing your pet to go through the flap by physically lifting them up. This can cause a negative impression on it.
Once your pet has gotten used to going through the flap, you can close the flap to prevent other pets from entering. This is done by removing the peg or by locking the flap for the night. But it is best to only do this if you have a very secure lock and are certain that your pet won't wander into your home when you're asleep or at work.
The clunk and snap of the flap closing can be terrifying for a newcomer So it's important to teach your cat to associate the door with positive experiences. This can be done by letting your cat play with the flap at different angles, then closing and opening it when they are there. You could also use a toy that moves when you push it, for example a string or pull toy. You can also place plants or potted plants close to the exit to provide a hiding spot so your pet feels secure leaving the house.
Selective entry cat flaps let your pet to go through the flap, but not other animals. The doors can recognize a microchip or collar code and then open the flap if it matches. The cat flaps are a great way for you to reduce stress and avoid conflict between your cats, especially if you have more than one.