A cat flap is an opening that allows your pet to go in and out of the house whenever they want. It can be put into windows, doors and even walls. It is opened when a cat pushes through a section of its body.
Microchip cat flaps unlock the door by recognizing your cat's unique chip. Infrared and magnetic cat flaps require your cat to wear a collar that has either a magnet or an infrared device that activates the flaps.
What is a cat flap?
A cat flap is a small gap in the door or window that allows your pet to go in and out of the home. These flaps come in a variety of sizes and materials. They can be placed in windows, doors, and even on walls. A lot of modern cat flaps have features that allow you to secure the flap during the night or only let in certain animals.
It could take a while for cats and kittens to get used to using the flap. Initially, they may be frightened by the sound of the flap as it opens and closes scary or worried that their tail will get trapped in the flap. It's beneficial to encourage your cat to open and closing the flap in their presence, and rewarding them for using it. You can also give treats to them through it or play a game where they must crawl through the flap.
The most popular cat flap is the manual two-way flap. It's inexpensive and efficient, and it lets your cat out and in as they please. A microchip cat flap is more costly, but it is more secure and offers more control over your cat's access to the home. Other cat flaps include magnetic keys and remote-control options.
A professional can help you install a cat flap in your door or wall. They have the tools, skills and expertise to do a quality job that won't harm your door or lower the efficiency of your energy. They can also provide guidance on the kind of cat flap that's the best fit for your needs.
When installing a new cat flap, start by placing it at the correct height. The easiest method of doing this is to measure the distance between your cat's belly and the floor. This will ensure the cat flap is at a level that is comfortable and won't be difficult to use. Mark the center of the opening with a spirit level.
Cat flaps come in a variety of different designs.
If you have a cat that you want to let it go out on its own without you being around to open and shut the door or window, then a cat flap is the ideal option. They come in various sizes and opening mechanisms, and some have extra features that you may enjoy. Selecting the right one will depend on your cat's personality and how much privacy you require.
Basic manual cat flaps are the most commonly used, and they open when your pet presses against them. They are simple, inexpensive and, in most cases, work well. They are not ideal for multi-cat households because they allow other cats to access them.
There are also magnetic and infrared cat flaps, which open only when the cat wears an accessory collar that has an infrared or magnetic device connected to it. These can prevent other cats from entering your home, but neighbouring cats may still have collars with identical devices that unlock the flap.
There are also microchip cat flaps that recognize your pet's unique microchip code to allow it to go in and out of the home. These are the most secure, but can be expensive and require a professional installation.
If you're installing a cat flap on your own, it's important to get the right size. Make use of this measurement to select the appropriate flap. Make sure that the flap is at the right height so that your cat get out and in more easily.
Test it before installing it, to ensure your cat is familiar with the sound. Close it in your cat's presence and then open it slowly to help them get used to the sound. You can also train your cat to open the flap by rewarding them with treats whenever they do.
Look for a cat flap made of materials treated to resist UV radiation. This will ensure that the flap will remain looking new for longer. It is crucial to purchase a cat-sized flap. If cat flap installers near me installing it yourself make sure you mark the center of your cat flap on the wall with a pencil or a spirit-level. This will help you avoid drilling holes in the wrong location and causing damage to the frame of your home.
Cat flaps cost money
The cost of installing a cat flap will vary greatly based on the kind of flap, door or wall material. It also depends on the degree of the installation as well as whether you would prefer a microchip-operated flap or one that requires the use of a key to open. The price of a pet door could also be affected based on the area you live in. Labour costs are more expensive in London and the south-east.
A cat flap added to your home is a great way to allow your pet to enter and out without needing to open the door for them. It is especially useful if you have an outdoor garden or a cat who likes to explore. It is also helpful when you have dogs that are small as a lot of dogs love to use the cat flap too.
Cat flaps can be easily used by cats and can be installed in a variety of materials, such as doors, walls or windows. It is recommended to employ a professional for the installation because mistakes can be costly and hazardous for your pet. Carpenters are recommended, since they are more experienced and can ensure the task is done properly.
Make sure the flap is sufficient for your pet to use it comfortably. It should not be more than their smallest height on the belly. If they are unable to go through the flap and exit, it will be frustrating for them, and they might even refuse to use the flap at all.
It is also important to ensure that the opening of the flap isn't leading to a vulnerable part of your garden, since it could deter them from using it. It is recommended to introduce your cat to the flap prior to when you put it up, as it will make them feel more comfortable with it. It will also give them an opportunity to get used to the shape and size.
There are also a variety of cat flaps that are advanced on the market that offer different features. For example, some are equipped with microchip technology, which can recognise your pet's unique microchip which means that only the pet can be allowed to enter and exit the home. Some have magnetic catchers that can be activated by your pet's collar which is an excellent security measure for households with more than one cat.
DIY cat flap installation
Cat flaps allow your pet to leave and enter the house without opening a door or window. They are most commonly installed in doors, but they can also be attached to windows and other places. Some are controlled by the use of a key, while other operate using a microchip and can be operated remotely. They can also be programmed to open at specific times and shut at other times. Your requirements will determine the type of cat flap you choose. It is recommended to get an expert to install it at your home if you're thinking about it. You can find an expert cat flap fitter near you on Airtasker by entering your postcode into the search box.
If you're looking for an expert cat flap fitter to install the cat flap in your wooden or uPVC door, or in a double-glazed glass window, there's plenty of Taskers on the site. Many Taskers will offer you an estimate before work begins. Make sure to input your postcode into the search box to locate only verified and certified professionals.
It's not an easy task to install a cat flap into a brick wall. It is recommended to hire an expert Tasker with experience in this area to avoid damaging electrical cables pipes, cables, (gas, waste or water) and walls that are unstable. They'll also be able to seal the hole properly to stop weather and draughts from getting in.
A cat flap of a small size will cost about PS100. Larger models will cost more, especially when they have to be cut into a door or window frame. The most expensive cat flaps are constructed from stainless steel or aluminum and are more durable and will last for years to come.
A glazier can put in a cat flap in your double glazing at a cost of between PS160 and PS200. The glazier will need to remove the small-to-medium-sized flap from the glass panel prior to installing the flap. They can also seal off the panel to prevent unwanted draughts from coming through and out of your house.