A cat flap-style door allows your pet to go outside and come back inside without you needing to open the door for them. These doors are available in varying sizes to fit dogs and cats and come with features that can stop draughts and unwanted animals.
It is best to introduce your pet the door prior to installing it. It will be easier to make them comfortable with the size, shape and movement.
Easy to install
Cat flaps are available in a variety of different places. They can be installed in your laundry room, garage or bedroom to allow your pet to enter without disturbing you. The trick is to select the right flap and install it properly. There is a wealth of helpful information online and a great DIY guide will help you avoid costly mistakes.
First, you should measure the width and height of your pet. You'll require a cat flap big enough that your pet can fit through, but not so large that it attracts unwanted visitors such as dogs and stray cats. Think about the location of the flap for your cat and whether you wish to lock the door at night or limit entry to certain times of the day. Modern flaps have additional features to make the experience of opening the door more enjoyable for both you and your pet. There are options for selective entry that are available to unlock the flap by using magnets or the microchip on the collar of your pet. These will ensure that your pet is the only one to use the flap, and pets that wander in are not allowed to enter your home.
Installing your cat flap is easy once you have taken measurements of the height and width of the area. If you're installing it on a door made of glass then you must talk to a glazier that is experienced in working with this type of material. Glass is fragile, so it is recommended to wear protective equipment while cutting it.
After you've cut the opening, you should place masking tape over the holes that you made. This will stop you from drilling into the door frame. Then, draw a template on the door that you'll use to fix your cat flap. Utilizing a spirit-level, you can ensure that the markings are straight.
When you're done, put the cat flap together. It is a good idea to add a coat of paint to the edges of your cat flap as this will protect the flap from water damage and rotting.
Easy to clean
Cat doors make it easier for cats to get outdoors and keep them active and stimulated. They can also prevent indoor toileting accidents by allowing cats to go outside whenever it feels it is required to. However they can be a challenge to clean, as they are prone to attracting dirt and grime, especially in the winter. There are several ways to prevent this from happening, such as regularly cleaning the flaps.
Use mild detergent and lukewarm water to wash the pet door's frame and PVC vinyl flaps. Use a soft cloth to wipe the flaps, and rinse them with clean water following. cat flap installers can apply a vinyl protector to the flaps to extend their life. This is a great option if your cat likes to scratch the sides of the flap while trying to push through it.
Begin by putting the flap and then entice your cat with treats or toys. Reduce the flap gradually until your cat is at ease pushing through. This technique can help your cat get familiar with the feeling of using the flap and can reduce anxiety and fear that comes with it. It is also possible to remove any stressors that may be around the cat flap, such as loud or alarming noises, by addressing them by an expert.
Another drawback of the cat flap is that it could be a means for animals to get into your home. These animals may be aggressive, feral or cause damage to your home. They can also carry diseases that are detrimental to your pet. You should consider purchasing a cat-flap that can be locked to prevent this. These can be locked to permit only your cat to enter and leave your home. This will reduce the chance that other animals will get inside. You can also purchase a microchip cat flap that will restrict your cat's access to the outside world. You can also track your cat's movements and observe the places they go. This is useful if you have an appointment with a vet, or when your cat is feeling unwell.
Easy to train
It is possible to train your cat to use the cat flap on a door to explore the outdoors without risking his life. It can also cut down on the amount of time you're spending opening and closing the door for them. It's important to remember that each cat is unique and will require different types of training. Some cats can utilize the flap right away while others may require assistance.
Introduce your cat to the flap first before installing it. This will allow them to become familiar with the shape and size, and they'll be less likely be hesitant about using the flap once it's set up. You can also prop the flap open for the initial few weeks to allow your cat to see out and inside.
You can also lubricate the flaps and hinges to make it easier for your cat. This will make it easier for your cat to push through the door and make it quieter, which will be helpful especially if you live in an area with lots of traffic. If your cat is reluctant, you could consider replacing the existing door with with a smaller flap. This will make it easier for them to get through.
If your cat isn't keen to walk through the door then encourage them to do so by offering them treats and arouse them. You can also rub their head or paws against the cat door to help them get used to it and make it less alien. Once they're confident with the door, remove the object and letting them nip through with their heads or paws.
Once they are comfortable using the cat door, you can allow them to go out at specific times. You can purchase cat doors with built-in timers to control when the cat door opens or closes. This will prevent your cat from returning when you're not ready to return.
Easy to maintain
A cat flap on a door lets your pet to go in and out without opening it. This is important for cats that need to maintain a sense control over their behavior especially when away from home. It can also help prevent the stray cats and other animals from entering your home.
There are a variety of pet doors available on the market, ranging from basic single flap options to more advanced microchip cat flaps. Microchip cat flaps are the most sophisticated models available and use radio frequency identification to recognise your pet's unique microchip. This means you don't have to use heavy magnets or other accessories that could cause discomfort or harm to your cat.
A traditional single flap pet doors have a rigid flap that is connected to the frame's interior. They could be weighted at the bottom or spring-aided to provide weather protection and swing shut after the pet has left. Some models of door for dogs and cats have an open flap of polycarbonate that is attached on the outside of the frame, which improves visibility and a more weather-resistant seal.
Another kind of pet door is an automatic or electronic model. They are powered by a motor which raises a panel to let your pet in or out. This is a great option for those who must work for long hours or simply cannot be at home in order to allow their pets to in.
The benefit of having an electronic door over a traditional one is that it can be programmed to allow entry and out at specific times, which could reduce energy costs by keeping your home closed. This is particularly beneficial in cases where you wish to limit your pet's access outside in the evening or during bad weather.
Whatever type of pet door you choose it is crucial to keep the door in good condition. You should clean it regularly before it gets dirty. Use Simple Green or gentle dish soap. This will stop the growth and spread of germs and bacteria.