Every cat owner knows how important independence is to them. Cats love to explore the world and are curious creatures.
Cat flaps can be a wonderful thing for our cats as they are able to go where they want. Before you spend your money on a cat flap, what are some things to think about? You don’t know where to start?
You don’t have to worry about it, this guide has everything you need!
Dimensions of the cat flap
The size of the flap is important. The size of the cat flap should be big enough to allow your pet to fit through it, but not large enough that it takes up too much space. The type and size of cat flap that you choose will depend on the location where it will be installed. Walls can limit the size of cat flaps you can install, while walls can make them smaller.
Cat flap location
While most catflap installation takes place to a front door, it is possible to install your cat flap in a window or in a conservatory. As different locations have different advantages and disadvantages, it is important to weigh the pros and con’s of installing your cat flap.
Installing cat flaps in glass is, for example, much easier than installing a wall. Just order the glass, then contact a local glass dealer to help you install your panel.
Installation of a cat flap in glass
You need to know the type of glass you have if you want to make a cat flap out of glass. The standard float glass can be taken out and the hole cut through it. Once it is back, it will not break.
The UK has updated safety regulations that prohibit standard glass from certain areas. public facing buildings, adjacent to doors, and below waist height). Therefore, float glass cannot be legally put back in these areas if it is taken out.
A hole for a cat flap will require toughened or laminated new glass. These types of glass are not easy to cut because they shatter. You will need to order the hole and then have a glazier install the pane.
If float glass is cut and put back into place, a glazier may be able to do it on the spot.
Different types of cat flaps
It is important to understand the types of cat flaps that you have.
No longer is a single plastic flap all that you can give your cat. There are many options. You can still get a cat flap fitted by a professional if you prefer a two-way flap. However, have you considered modern alternatives?
A four-way flap, which is an upgrade to a standard two-way flap, offers more security options. There are four settings for access: open, close, exit only, entrance only, and closed. These types are relatively inexpensive (around PS20 for a good one), and give you more control over where your cat is headed.
This is the downside of these flaps as well as the two-way old-school flap: they are non-discriminatory. Any animal large enough to use them can enter. This might make it tempting to choose a more secure option so that you don’t come home to find a fox curled up on the couch.
Advanced cat flaps
You can also get a magnetic cat flap. These flaps come with a magnetic attachment that your cat can attach to their collar. This will allow the cat to open the flap whenever they approach it.
The cat flap is pet-proof, meaning that any other animal cannot use it. This means that you can rest assured that your home will be safe from unwanted surprises.
The downside to these flaps is that cats who have magnets attached can use them as well. These types are also slightly more costly than regular four-way flaps online, at an average cost of PS20-30.
You might want to keep your cat out of the flap.
The four-way microchip/infrared cat flap is the best option for those who require cat flap installation. The miniature sensor you attach to your cat’s collar is similar to the magnetic attachment. This cat flap looks like something out of James Bond movies.
But unlike the magnet, the microchip can only be accessed by your cat. It’s safe for your home and it has a clear advantage. But, nothing is perfect.
The downsides to the infrared/microchip option include that it’s more expensive than other options (ranging from PS50 up to PS150), as well as the instability of the locking mechanism.
Summarising,
It is not as simple as you might think, but you have many options when it comes to getting a cat-flap fitted.
You can choose which one you want, but no matter what, your cat will be grateful.
Copyright – Classicalnet