How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to installation to allow them to become familiar with the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let them explore it from all angles.
Ensure the cut-out is even and square. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the opening for the cat flap The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap inside your home is beneficial to the well-being and health of your pet. It allows your pet to move from the inside to the outside, without needing to allow them to enter or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over cat food and litter box, or even the door to the house.
Set up the area where you plan to install your cat flap prior to begin. This is because eliminating any obstructions from the area will make it easier to work. You should also take away any furniture or decorations that might hinder the installation.
When preparing the area you must measure and mark out where you are planning to install the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake that could damage the door or wall. You will want to put the cat flap in a place that is easily accessible to your cat, but doesn't affect the structural integrity of your home.
The cat flap can be placed in a door that leads to a space that is closed like your laundry room or closet. This will stop your cat from attempting to jump over it, and allow you to keep the cats away from any potential dangers. The flap should be low enough for your smallest cat to use, since taller cats may struggle to jump through a higher flap.
It might be a wise idea to employ a professional handyman if you have sliding doors or sash window that is old-fashioned. It can be difficult to install the cat flap on these doors and windows and any mistakes could lead to costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the door or window's structural strength.
To determine 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 precisely cut the opening for the flap. Once you've marked the line, use a spirit level to ensure that it is horizontal. Follow the directions that came along with the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach the template to your door, so that the bottom edge of the template is with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. The template should be aligned in the middle of your door.
Measurement
A cat flap sometimes known as pet door is a small opening at the bottom of your external doors or windows that allow pets to leave and enter the house. You can pick from a variety of sizes and materials to find the perfect one for your pet and you.
Before you purchase an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the size of your window or door in which you plan to install it. This way, you will be able to ensure that the hole to be of the correct size and that the cat flap will fit. You can use this technique to measure the width 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 floor to the lowest point on their belly. This will ensure the flap is installed in the right place for your cat to feel comfortable. If it is too low, they could struggle to get through. If it is too high, they might not be able to use the flap.
In general, you should drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will result in the most stable and secure fixings for the installation of your cat flap. If your cat flap kit didn't come with a spirit level, a straight edge can be used instead.
It's best to have a professional glazier install the cat flap on an UPVC or glass window or door. This is because these types of doors are normally 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.
Placing a cat flap in the brick wall could be problematic too, as drilling into a soft area of the wall, it could cause issues with cables and pipes that run through the property. This could lead to costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage from outside.
Marking
Mark the hole in which you require it after measuring your cat's measurements. Mark the center of the flap with your spirit level. If the template you've chosen for the cat flap doesn't include the centre line, copy it and trace around it with a pencil to mark the spot where the hole will need to be cut.
Remember, if your cat's flap is too low, it can be difficult for your cat to get into and out of the home, and if it's too high, they might struggle to see what's happening outside. To ensure that your cat is safe and comfortable, it is best to position the flap as close as you can to their belly.
It is essential 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 working with masonry it's worthwhile to seek out professional assistance.
Next, prop the door open and encourage your cat kitten to come through it by pointing them to where they need to go (it helps if there's someone on the inside to encourage them). Once hop over to this site made their way through it then you can gradually begin to let them in and out at will.
It is important not to push your kitten or cat through the flap too fast as this could cause them to become scared. The clunk and snap squeak of the door closing could cause harm to your cat or kitten. They'll be more scared if their tail gets stuck in the flap. Cats also have a habit of returning home to check on any intrusions, so having the door open during this time could pose a risk as it can lead to your pet being attacked by a cat they are familiar with. Installing a small cat door is best when your cat or kitten is able to use it.
Installation
Once the flap is set, it is important to show your cat how to use it. This will take time, but with patience and some treats to encourage them to learn, they will eventually get hang of it. Install a lock to the cat flap if your pet needs extra security, especially in the event of bad weather or you're away from home.
The first thing you should decide where you want to put the cat flap in your door. This will need to be located in a place that can open up to a sheltered area of your garden. This will allow your cat to feel safer as they exit and enter the house. It can also stop other animals from entering your home.
Another factor to consider is the height you'd like to set the flap for your cat at. This should be in the same space as your cat's belly measurement, as this will ensure that they can get through the door easily. You can also consider placing steps either side of the door to assist your cat navigate it more easily.
Once you've decided on where you'd like to place the cat flap, you can measure the door using a pencil and mark the area. This will help you determine the location to cut. You will then need to cut a square out of the door with the jigsaw. It is recommended to wear safety glasses and a dust mask when doing this, since breathing in dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut, it is necessary to smooth the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
When you are done sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The flap should be put in a position where the lock, if there's one, is located on the inside of the door. Make the screw holes, should there be any on the door. Then, carefully insert the cat flap in the hole. Make sure that it fits snugly.