How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's installed so they can become familiar with the size and shape. Open the flap and let your cat 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 your cat flap opening. The distance between the edges should be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap in your home is beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. This is because it will allow them to freely move between indoors and out without you having to allow them to enter or exit. It also stops them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the door to the house.
The first thing that you'll need to do before starting the installation of your cat flap is to prepare the area in which it will be placed. This is because eliminating any obstacles from the area will make it easier to work. It is also important to take away any furniture or other decorations that could hinder the installation.
When preparing the area it is important to take measurements and mark the location where you plan on installing the cat flap. This will help you avoid making an error that could damage the wall or door. It is important to place the cat flap in a place that is accessible to your pets, but doesn't affect the structural integrity of your home.
A good location to place the cat flap is a door that leads to an enclosed space such as your closet or laundry room. This will prevent your cat from tripping over it and also keep your cats away from dangers. Also, make sure that the cat flap is not too low to be used by the small cat, since taller cats will struggle leaping through a flap that is higher.
It might be a wise idea to hire an expert handyman if you have sliding doors or window with a sash that is old-fashioned. It can be difficult to install a cat flap on these windows and doors and a mistake can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap with out damaging the structure of the window or door's integrity.
To mark the space to place the cat flap, you will need to use a ruler or tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will allow you to accurately cut the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level once you've marked the line to ensure it's horizontal. After that, read the instructions included in the cat flap kit to locate the template. Attach it to your door so that the bottom edge of the template aligns with the horizontal line you've drawn and is aligned with the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also referred to as a dog's door, is a small opening at the bottom of doors or windows. It lets pets leave and enter the home. You can pick from a variety of sizes and materials to find the best one for your pet.
It's important that you take measurements of your doors or windows prior to purchasing a new cat flap. You can then be sure that your cat flap will fit and that the hole is the correct size. 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 exact idea of the passage opening size (width).
It's also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the ground up to the lowest point of their belly. This will ensure that the flap is installed in a height where your cats feel comfortable. If it is too low, they may struggle to get through. If it is too high, they might not be capable of using the flap.
Generally you should aim to 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. It is recommended to use a spirit-level to aid you in this but if the instructions included with your cat flap kit don't have this then straight edges will work equally well.
It is best to have a professional glazier put in the cat flap in a UPVC or glass door or window. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could cause damage to their structure and cause them to shatter. This could pose the risk of security for your home.
It can be a challenge to install a cat flap on brick walls, as drilling into a soft section of the wall can create issues for pipes and cables that run through the property. This can result in costly repairs, or even leaks or weather damage that comes from outside.
Marking
After you've measured your cat kitten to determine the correct size flap for them then you need to mark the location where the hole needs to go. Use your spirit level to make sure it is flush with the door, and then mark the centre point. If the template for the cat flap doesn't include the centre line, copy it and draw around it with a pencil to mark the location where the hole must be cut.
Remember, if the cat flap is too low, it will make it difficult for your cat to get into and out of the house, and if it's too high, they could be unable to see what's happening outside. To ensure that your cat feels secure and safe it is recommended to put the flap as close as you can to their belly.
It is important to not place a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This can cause problems with draughts and damp. If you're unfamiliar in masonry work it's beneficial to seek professional assistance.
Next you need to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is inside, encouraging them). Once they've walked through it then you can gradually begin to let them in and out at will.
It's important that you don't allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap too fast as this can lead to them getting scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing could cause injuries to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if the tail is trapped in the flap. Cats are also known to return home to look for intruders. Leaving the door open is dangerous. Your pet could be attacked by another cat they know. Installing a small cat door is best when your cat or kitten knows how to use it.
Installation
Once the flap is in place, it is important to teach your cat to use it. It will take some time however, with patience and a few treats for motivation your cat will eventually learn how to use it. Install a lock to the cat flap if you want additional security, especially in the event of bad weather or you're away from home.
Decide where you'd like to place the cat flap on your door. This will need to be located in a place that can open up to a sheltered area of your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure when they exit and enter the home and will keep other animals from entering your home.
Another thing to consider is the height you want to put the flap for your cat at. This should be in the same area as the measurement of your cat's belly, to ensure that they will be able to pass through with ease. You can also put steps either side of the entrance to help your cat to get through.
Once you've determined where you'd like to put the cat flap, you can measure the door using a pencil and mark the spot. This will allow you to determine the best place you need to cut. You will then need to cut a square in the door using the Jigsaw. It is advisable 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, sand the edges of the door. This will create an even edge.
After you've finished sanding, now replace the cat flap on your door. The cat flap such that the lock (if there is one) is on the inside of the door. If there are holes for screws for the cat flap on the door, you must now drill these into place. Then, you should carefully insert the flap in the hole, making sure it is snugly in place.