Installing a pet flap on your French or Patio doors is a great option if you have a dog or cat. It lets them go in and out without having to open up the door.
There are a myriad of options for cat flaps that are designed to be used with uPVC wood or composite doors. Some have a four-way locking system that can be configured to let out only, in only, or open.
Installation
Cat flaps can be an excellent method of letting your cat out and in of the house without opening the door each time. This is especially useful if your cat loves to explore the neighbourhood and spend time with its feline friends. Cat flaps are also a great method to keep unwanted animals out of your home.
There are many kinds of cat flaps available for french doors, including classic two-way pet flaps, as well as microchip cat flaps. Microchip cat flaps recognize the microchip embedded in the collar or tag of your pet and will only allow your pet to enter. This can stop stray cats and cats from gaining access to your home. This is crucial for security-conscious homeowners.
Before installing a new cat flap, it is best to make sure that the opening is clean and free of obstructions. You can do this by using a piece of sandpaper to smooth out the edges of the hole. Use coarse sandpaper to remove material and fine sandpaper when smoothing the surface. Avoid removing too much material, as this could weaken the door's structure.
You can begin cutting it out once you've made sure that the opening is clear of debris and that it is not obstructed. Wear safety goggles and a mask to protect your eyes from dust particles that could be harmful to your health. After the rough opening has been cut, you can start fitting your cat flap. When installing a cat flap inside the glass of a door, you will need to hire a professional glazier who has experience working with glass doors.
If you're installing a cat flap in a wood or uPVC door, you can do it yourself using a jigsaw and some DIY skills. If, however, you have an French door with several glass panes, it may be best to call a glazier for assistance.
It can take a while for your cat to get comfortable with the new flap. You can speed up the process by placing your cat's favorite treats close to the flap. You can also use a cloth scented with your pet's scent to clean the flap's interior. This will allow them to recognise and trust the cat door.
Functions
A cat flap lets cats to go in and out of the home without your assistance. These flaps are available in various sizes and have a variety of functions that allow you to have control over the access your pet gets. Some models, like can be locked at night or allowed to be used after a certain time. Microchip cat doors are another option. They recognize the microchip of your pet to allow access. They are perfect for families with multiple pets.
Some cat owners prefer installing a cat flap on the wall rather than the door. This type of installation is more expensive but it's easier to put in and is more suited to the style of your home. This is also an ideal option for those who don't want to cut through walls or doors made of wood particularly in the event of moving in the near future.
To teach your cat to use the cat flap you can try luring them through with their favorite toy or treats. You might also consider using certain herbs that have been proven to entice cats, such as cat germander, clary sage, valerian, and catnip. Another method to get your cat to use the cat flap is to open the door with a piece of board and let them walk through to test it out. It may take some time for them to adjust to the idea, but eventually they will be able push the flap independently.
There are other options for glass fitting cat flaps, which can be installed in your patio or French doors. They can be more difficult to install, but they are more private than traditional cat flaps and allow your door to function normally. Certain models come with a four way lock that can be set for entrance only or exit only, and can be fully shut or unlocked.
Many people are wary of damaging their homes, particularly when it comes to windows and doors made of glass. But cat flaps for glass doors are an ideal solution for those who do not want to compromise security or aesthetics. Closer Pets offers both glass fitting and larger glass fitted cat flaps that integrate into a sliding panel to let the door open fully.
Safety
There are a variety of safety features to consider when selecting the ideal cat flap for your home. This includes anti-trapping options and lockable options as well as motion-activated lights. Many of these features will make you aware of potential invaders before they can cause damage or break into your home. This is particularly crucial if you have an indoor/outdoor cat.
One way to keep your pet safe from intrusions is to use an entry door that scans your cat's microchip collar key, and opens the door only for them. It also comes with a draft excluder which insulates the opening and lowers energy costs. This kind of door can be a great option for pet owners who live in cold climates or who are looking to protect their pets from unwanted visitors and intrusions.
It is important to ensure that you select a cat flap that is the right size for your pet before purchasing one for your French doors. Small pets will struggle to fit through the opening of the standard cat flap. You must therefore take measurements of the pet's height and weight to determine the right size of the flap. If you aren't sure about the measurement, a flexible cat flap that is adjusted to fit your pet's needs may be the best option.
The door lock is an important safety feature. The lock holds the flap in position and prevents your pet escaping. You can lock the flap with buttons or keys on the front or close it using the door handle. You can prevent your cat running across the road and chasing cars by locking it.
The Hale doors feature dual PVC vinyl flaps and stainless steel strikes. They also come with strong-duty magnetic locks made of alnico, as well as a high-density polyethylene security cover that can be locked at night. The hinges are also constructed of extruded aluminium, and strengthened by steel at the corners. They are the most durable cat flaps on the market.
Some cat owners opt for rigid flap doors with an adjustable catch, and are designed to be chew-proof. Kennel owners utilize these doors to regulate the flow of pets entering or leaving their premises. These are more expensive than other kinds of pet doors but are worth the cost. They're also simple to install and can be put on various doors.
Cost
Installing a cat flap on your home is a good way to allow your pets to roam around your home. cat flap fitting will also remove the need to play doorman every time they want to go out or come in. However installing a cat flap can be difficult if you have double glazing. It is possible to consult an expert glazier who will put in the pet flap inside your French or patio door without compromising security or aesthetics.
A specialist in glazed doors will design a custom-made panel that has a pre-cut hole for your cat flap. You will then install it into your existing glass pane of your double-glazed patio or French doors. The professional will seal the panel in order to keep drafts from entering your home. Additionally, the glazier will also provide a maintenance plan to ensure that your cat flap is in good condition.
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available. Some flaps are sturdy and include security features, like electronic mechanisms that sync up with your pet's collar key or microchip. This makes it safe for your cat to enter and out of. They are available in various sizes, and you can even select a frosted model to give a subtle appearance.
It is crucial to select a pet flap that is large enough for your cat if you want to install a cat flap on your French or Patio doors. Measure your pet's height and weight to determine the area required to pass through the opening. You can use a tape measure to get a precise measurement, or ask a friend to assist you.
A glazier is able to install a cat flap on any type of glass, whether it's uPVC or composite. They will be able to assess your home and recommend the best cat flap for your requirements, as well as offer suggestions and prices for installation. They will also be familiar with any local building regulations and codes for cat flaps so you can be assured that your door will comply with all standards.