How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they be familiar with the dimensions and shape. Unlock the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cutout is square and even. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the cat flap opening The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Having a cat flap installed at home can be beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. This is because it allows them to freely move between indoors and out without you having to let them in or out. It will also stop them from fighting over cat food, litter boxes or the door to the house.
Set up the area in which you'll install your cat flap before you begin. This is because removing any obstructions from the area will make it easier for you to work. It is also important to take away any furniture or decorations that may interfere with the installation.
In preparing the area, you will need to determine the exact location and measurement you are planning to install the cat flap. This will help you to avoid making a mistake that could ruin your door or wall. It is important to place the cat flap in a place that is easily accessible to your cat, but doesn't harm the structural integrity of your home.
The cat flap can be set in a door leading to a closed space such as your laundry room or closet. This will stop your cat from tripping over it and also protect your cat from dangers. It is also important to ensure that the cat flap is low enough to be used by the small cat, since taller cats will struggle leaping through a flap that is higher.
It might be a wise option to employ an experienced handyman when you have sliding doors or sash window that is old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap into these types of windows and doors can be a challenge and mistakes could lead to expensive damage. A professional will be able to install the cat flap in a safe manner without harming the structural strength of the door or window.
To mark the space for the cat flap you'll need a ruler or a tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will allow you to accurately cut out the opening for the flap. Once you have the line marked with a spirit-level, use it to ensure that it is completely horizontal. Check the instructions included with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach the template to your door, so that the bottom edge coincides with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. The template should be aligned in the center of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as a dog's door, is a small opening at the bottom of exterior doors or windows. It lets pets get in and out of the home. They are available in various sizes and materials so that you can pick the ideal one for your home and pets.
Before purchasing a cat flap, it is important to accurately measure the dimensions of your windows or doors in which you plan to install it. This way you can be sure that the hole will to be of the correct size and that the cat flap will fit. A good technique is to block off a section of the door, and then try to walk through it with your pet, this will give you an accurate idea of the opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the ground up to the lowest part of their stomach. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a height that your cats are comfortable with. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through. If it's too high, they may not be in a position to use the flap.
Generally, you should drill your holes at a 45 degree angle to the vertical surface. This will provide the most secure and stable fixings for the installation of your cat flap. Ideally you should use a spirit level to assist you with this, but if the directions included with your kit for installing a cat flap don't have this then straight edges will work the same job.
When putting the cat flap into glass or UPVC window or door, it is best to employ an expert glazier to do this for you. This is because these types of doors are usually made of toughened glass and drilling into them can compromise the strength of the glass and possibly result in it breaking in the future which could be a security risk for your home.
Installing a cat flap on brick walls can be a problem, too, since if you drill into a soft section of the wall, it could create problems for pipes and cables that run through the property. This can lead expensive repairs and leaks, as well as weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the correct size flap for them, it's time to mark where the hole needs to go. Use your spirit level to make sure it runs parallel to the door, then mark the center point. If the template you've chosen for the cat flap doesn't include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and trace around it using a pencil to mark the spot where the hole needs to be cut.
If the cat flap is set too low, your cat could struggle to get out and in, and if you place it too high, the cat may not be able see what's happening outside. To ensure your cat feels safe and comfortable it is best to position the flap as close as possible to their belly.
It is important to not place a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This could cause issues with draughts and damp. If you're not experienced with masonry work, it might be beneficial to seek professional assistance.
Next you should prop the door open and encourage your cat kitten to go through it by pointing them to where they need to go (it helps if there's someone in the room to encourage them). Once they've made it through, you can start letting them go in and out as you would like.
It's important that you don't push your cat or kitten through the flap in a hurry as this could lead to them being scared. The clunk and snap squeak of the door closing may cause injury to your cat or kitten. They will be even more scared if the tail gets caught in the flap. Cats also are known to return home to look for intruders so having the door open could pose a risk because it could result in your pet being attacked by a cat that they know. This is why it's recommended to install an uninspiring cat flap and only if your cat or kitten is aware of its use.
Installation
Once the flap is set It is essential to teach your cat to use it. It will take some time however, with patience and a few treats to entice them to learn, they will eventually get the hang of it. Install composite door cat flap to the cat flap if you want extra security, particularly during bad weather or when you're away from home.
The first thing you should determine where you want to put the cat flap in your door. It should be placed in a location that opens up into an area of protection in your garden. This will allow your cat to feel safer as they leave and enter the home and will also stop other animals from entering your home.
Another consideration is the height you'd like to set the cat flap at. This should be in line with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they are able to move through. It is also possible to put steps either side of the door, to help your cat move through it more easily.
Once you've decided on where you want to place the cat flap, you can measure the door with a pencil and mark the area. This will give you a guide for where to cut. Then, you will need to cut out an area on the door using a jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a mask for dust protection while doing this, as breathing in dust can be dangerous to your health. After the square has been cut then sand the edges the door. This will give an even edge.
Once you have finished sanding, you can now replace the cat flap inside your door. The cat flap in so that the lock (if there is one) is positioned on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes in the event that there are any on the door. Then carefully insert the cat flap in the hole. Make sure it fits snugly.