How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's set up so they can get used to the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cutout is even and square. Mark the screw holes 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 can be beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. This is because it allows 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 itself.
The first thing that you must do prior to beginning your cat flap install is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be installed. This is because removing obstructions from the area will help you to work. You will also want to remove any furniture or decorations that might hinder your work.
You'll need to mark and measure the area where you intend to install the cat flap. This will stop you from making a mistake which could damage your door or wall. You should put the cat flap in a spot that is easily accessible to your cat, but doesn't affect the structural integrity of your home.
The best spot to put the cat flap is an entrance that leads to an enclosed space such as your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from tripping over it and you can keep your cats away from potential dangers. It is also important to ensure that the cat flap is not too low to be used by your smallest cat, as taller cats will struggle leaping through a higher-height flap.
It is a good option to employ an experienced handyman when you have a sliding door or a sash window that is old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap on these windows and doors can be a challenge and mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap with care and without compromising the structural strength of the window or door.
You'll need to determine the height of your cat's belly from the ground to determine the area for the flap. This will enable you to cut precisely the flap's opening. Use a spirit level after having marked the line to ensure it is horizontal. Check the instructions that came with the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach the template to your door, so that the bottom edge is in line with the horizontal lines you've drawn. The template should be centered at the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as pet doors is a small opening in the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that allows pets to go inside and out of the home. You can choose from a range of sizes and materials to find the perfect one for your pet.
It is essential to measure your windows or doors before you buy the new cat flap. It is then possible to be certain that the cat flap you purchase will fit and that the hole is the right size. An effective method is to block off a part of the door, and then try to walk through with your pet, this will give you an accurate picture of the opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your feline from the floor to the bottom on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a height that your cat is comfortable with. If it's 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 installation. If your cat flap kit didn't come with a spirit level, a straight edge can be used in place.
It's best to employ an experienced glazier install the cat flap on an UPVC or glass door or window. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could weaken their integrity and result in them breaking. This could pose a security threat for your home.
cat flap installer near me is also difficult to install a cat flap inside a brick wall, as drilling into a soft section of the wall can cause problems for cables and pipes that run through the property. This can result in costly repairs or leaks, or even weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
After you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the correct size flap then you need to mark where the hole will be. Mark the center of the flap using a spirit level. If the template for your cat flap kit doesn't include the centre line, copy it and trace around it using pencil to mark the spot where the hole needs to be cut.
If the flap for your cat is set too low, your cat could be unable to get into and out. Likewise, when you set it too high, the cat might not be able to see what's going on outside. To ensure that your cat is at ease and secure, it is best to place the flap as close as you can to their belly.
It is important to avoid placing a cat flap too close to a solid wall frame. This can cause problems with damp and draughts. If you're not experienced with masonry work it's worthwhile to seek out professional assistance.
Next, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is nearby to encourage them). Once they've done it you can let them in and out as you want.
You should not push your cat or kitten through the flap too fast as this could cause them to be scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing may cause harm to your cat or kitten. They will be even more scared if the tail is caught in the flap. Cats also are known to return home to check for intrusions, so having the door open during this time could be a problem since it could lead to your pet being attacked by a cat that they know. Installing the door for your cat is best if your kitten or cat knows how to use it.
Installation
It is important to show your cat how to use the cat flap once it's installed. It may take some time, but with patience and a few treats to encourage them to learn, they will eventually get the habit of it. Install a lock on the cat flap if you want additional security, especially in bad weather 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 on your door. It should be located in a place that opens onto an area that is sheltered from the garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure as they come into and out of your house, and also keep other animals out of your home.
Another factor to consider is the height that you'd like to place the flap on your cat. This should be in the same space as the measurement of your cat's belly as this will ensure that they can get through the door easily. You can also put steps on either side of the entrance to help your cat pass through.
Once you've determined where you'd like to place the cat flap, you can measure the door using a pencil and mark the area. This will give you a guide for where to cut. You will then need to cut a square out of the door with an Jigsaw. Wear safety goggles, and a dust mask to ensure your health from inhaling dust. After the square has been cut, sand the edges of the door. This will create an even edge.
After you've completed sanding, you can now replace the cat flap in your door. The flap should be put in a position where the lock, if it has one, is located on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes in the event that there are any on the door. Then, you should carefully insert the flap in the hole, making sure it fits snuggly.