How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap before it's set up so they can get used to the size and shape. Prop the flap open and let them explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cut-out is level and ensure that the cut-out is square and even. Mark the screw holes and align them with the cat flap opening. The distance between the edges must be the same.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap in your home is beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet. This is because it will allow them to freely move between indoors and outside without needing to allow them to enter or exit. It can also stop them fighting over the litter box and cat food or even the door to the house.
Prepare the area where you plan to install your cat flap before you begin. This is because eliminating any obstructions from the area will help you to work. It is also important to remove any furniture and other 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 stop you from making a mistake that could ruin your wall or door. It is important to place the cat flap in a spot that is accessible to your cats, but won't affect the structural integrity of your home.
The cat flap can be put on the doorway leading to a space that is closed such as your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from jumping over it, and allow you to keep the cats away from any potential dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for your cat's smallest to use, as larger cats may have difficulty to leap through a flap that is higher.
If you have sliding patio doors or an old-fashioned windows with sash, it might be an ideal idea to employ a professional handyman for the job. It isn't easy to install a cat flap on these doors and windows and a mistake can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the door or window's structural integrity.
You'll need to determine the height of your cat's belly from the ground to mark the flap's location. This will enable you to accurately cut the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level after having drawn the line to ensure it is horizontal. Next, check the instructions included with your cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach this to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line you have drawn and is centered on the center point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as pet doors is a small opening at the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that permits a pet to go inside and out of the home. They come in various sizes and materials so that you can pick the right one for your house and pets.
It is important to take measurements of your doors or windows before purchasing the new cat flap. You will then be able to ensure that the cat flap will fit and the hole will be the correct size. This method can be used to determine the size of the opening by securing off a portion and walking through it with your pet.
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the ground to the lowest part of their stomach. This will ensure the flap is set at a height where your cats are comfortable. If it is too low, they might struggle to get through. If it is 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 result in the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap install. Ideally you should use a spirit level to assist you with this, however if the instructions that came with your kit for installing a cat flap don't have this then a straight edge will do equally well.
It is best to hire an experienced glazier install the cat flap in a UPVC or glass window or door. This is due to the fact that these types of doors are normally toughened and drilling into them may damage the integrity of the glass and may result in it breaking in the future which could pose a security risk for your home.
Putting a cat flap into a brick wall can be problematic too, as if you drill into a soft section of the wall this can cause issues with cables and pipes that run through the property. cat flap fitting Repair My Windows And Doors could result in costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage from the outside.
Marking
Mark the hole you'll need it after measuring your cat. Utilizing your spirit level to ensure it runs in line with the door, and then mark the centre point. If the template for the cat flap kit does not include a centreline, you can photocopy it. Then use a pencil to draw around the template to indicate the area where the hole needs to be cut.
If the flap for your cat is placed too low, your cat could have difficulty getting in and out, and should you put it too high, the cat might not be able see what's going on outside. To ensure that your cat is at ease and secure, it is best to position the flap as close as you can 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 damp and draughts. It's a good idea to seek help from a professional in case you're not familiar with masonry.
Next, prop the door open and encourage your cat or kitten to go through it by pointing them to where they need to go (it helps if someone's in the room to encourage them). Once they've passed you can let them in and out as you want.
It's crucial to not push your cat or kitten through the flap too fast because this could result in them being scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk or snap as it closes, and they could be scared if their tail gets caught in it when they try to exit. Cats also tend to return home to check on any invaders, so leaving the door open at this time could pose a risk because it could result in your pet being attacked by a cat they are familiar with. This is why it's recommended to put up an uninspiring 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 been installed. It will take a while but with patience and a few treats for motivation, your cat will eventually learn how to use it. Install a lock to your cat flap if you need additional security, especially during bad weather or when you're away from home.
The first thing to decide the location you'd like to put the cat flap inside your door. It will need to be placed in a location that can open up to a sheltered part of your garden. This will make your cat feel more secure when they come into and out of the home, and will also help keep other animals out of your home.
You should also take into consideration the height of the flap. This should be in accordance with your cat's stomach measurement to ensure that they are able to traverse through. You could also think about placing steps either side of the door to help your cat get through it more easily.
Once you've determined where you want to put the cat flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with the pencil. This will allow you to determine the best place you need to cut. The next step is to cut a square into the door using an jigsaw. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask to keep your health safe from inhaling dust. After the square is cut and sanded, you can sand the edges of the door. This will give an even edge.
Once you've finished sanding, you can now replace the cat flap in your door. The flap should be put in a position where the lock, if there is one, is located on the side of your door. Make 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.