How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap before it's set up so they can be familiar with the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let them explore it from all angles.
Make sure the cutout is even and square. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the cat flap opening - the distance between the edges should be the same.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap inside your home is beneficial for the health and well-being of your pet. It allows your pet to freely move from inside to the outside without needing to allow them in or out. It will also stop them from fighting over the litter box and cat food or even the door to the house.
The first thing that you'll need to do prior to starting your cat flap install is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be located. This is because removing obstructions from the area will make it easier to work. You will also want to take away any furniture or other decorations that could get in the way of the installation.
When you are preparing the space you must determine the exact location and measurement you are planning to install the cat flap. This will allow you avoid making a mistake that could ruin your wall or door. It is best to place the cat flap in a place that is easily accessible to your cats but that won't compromise the structural integrity of your home.
A great spot to put the cat flap is the doorway leading to an enclosed space like your laundry room or closet. This will stop the cat from jumping over it, and also protect your pets from dangers. You should also ensure that the flap for cats is not too low to be used by the smaller cat, as taller cats may have difficulty leaping through a flap that is higher.
If you have sliding patio doors or an old style sash window, it might be an ideal idea to employ an experienced handyman to do the task. Installing a cat flap into these types of windows and doors can be challenging, and mistakes can cause costly damage. upvc door panels with cat flap can install the cat flap without damaging the door or window's structural integrity.
To mark the space for the cat flap you will need to use an ruler or tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will allow you to precisely cut the opening for the cat flap. Use a spirit level once you've drawn the line to ensure it's horizontal. After that, read the instructions included in the cat flap kit to locate the template. Attach the template to your door so that the bottom edge is in line with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. The template should be placed in the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as a pet door is a small opening at the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that allow a pet to go inside and out of the house. You can pick from a variety sizes and materials to find the best one for your pet.
Before purchasing an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the dimensions of your windows or doors in which you're planning to put it. It is then possible to be certain that the cat flap will fit and the hole is the right size. This method can be used to determine the size of the opening by cutting off a section of it and walking through it with your pet.
It is also advisable to take the height of your cat from the floor to the lowest point on their belly. This will ensure the flap is placed at the right place for your cat to are comfortable. If it's too low, they might have difficulty getting through, and if it's too high, they may not be able to use the flap at all.
Generally, you should drill your holes at a 45 degree angle to the vertical surface. upvc door panels cat flap will result in the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap install. If your cat flap kit didn't include a spirit-level or straight edge, a straight edge may be used in place.
When fitting the cat flap into a glass or UPVC door or window it's best to hire an expert glazier to do this for you. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could cause damage to their structure and result in them breaking. This could pose an security risk to your home.
Putting a cat flap into brick walls can be problematic too, as if you drill into a soft area of the wall, it could cause problems with cables and pipes that run through the property. This can lead to expensive repairs, or even leaks and weather damage from the outside.
Marking
After you've measured your cat kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them, it's time to mark the location where the hole should go. Mark the centre of the flap using your spirit level. If the template for your cat flap kit doesn't include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and draw around it using a pencil to mark the spot where the hole will need to be cut.
Be aware that if the cat flap is too low, it can be difficult for your cat to go into and out of the house, and if the flap is too high, they may be unable to see what's going on outside. To ensure that upvc door panels with cat flap is safe and comfortable it is recommended to position the flap as close as is possible to their belly.
It is crucial to keep a cat flap from being too close to a wall frame. This could result in problems with draughts and damp. It's a good idea to seek help from a professional in case you're not familiar with masonry.
Then, prop the door open and encourage your cat kitten to enter it by showing them where to go (it is helpful if someone else is in the room to encourage them). Once they've made it through then you can begin letting them go in and out as you want.
You should not push your kitten or cat through the flap too quickly because this can cause them to become scared. The clunk and snap squeak of the door closing can cause injury to your cat or kitten. They will be even more terrified if their tail gets stuck in the flap. Cats also are known to return home to look for invaders, so leaving the door open can also be a concern as it can lead to your pet being attacked by a cat they know. This is the reason it's best to put up a small cat flap and only when your cat or kitten is aware of using it.
Installation
It is essential to show your cat how to use the flap once it's installed. It will take some time however, with patience and a few treats to provide motivation your cat will eventually learn how to use it. You might also want to put a lock in the flap to provide security, especially during adverse weather conditions or when you're away from home.
The first thing you need to do is decide where you would like to put the cat flap in your door. It should be in a location that can open up to a sheltered area of your garden. This will allow your cat to feel safer as they enter and exit the home and will keep other animals from entering your home.
You should also consider the height of the cat flap. It should be in line to your cat's measurement of stomach to ensure that they are able to pass through. You can also place steps either side of the entrance to assist your cat to get through.
Once you've determined where you'd like to place the cat flap then you can measure the door using a pencil and mark the location. This will help you decide the best place you need to cut. Then, you'll need to cut an area around the door using a jigsaw. Wear safety goggles, and a dust mask, to ensure your health from inhaling dust. After cutting the square into pieces, it is essential to smooth the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
After you have finished sanding your door, it is time to can replace the cat flap. The cat flap inside so that the lock (if there is one) is positioned on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes if there are any on the door. Then you can carefully place the cat flap in the hole. Make sure it fits perfectly.