How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap before it's installed so they can become familiar with the size and shape. Open the flap and let them explore it from every angle. Ensure the cut-out is even 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 should be equal. Preparation Installing a cat flap in your home is beneficial for the health and well-being of your pet. It allows your pet to move from inside to the outside, without needing to let them in or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over litter box and cat food, or even the door to the house itself. Make sure you have the space where you'll be installing your cat flap prior to when you begin. This is because eliminating any obstructions from the area will help you to work. Also, you should take away any furniture or other decorations that could get in the way of the installation. When preparing the area you must take measurements and mark the location where you intend to put the cat flap. This will help you avoid making a mistake that could cause damage to your door or wall. It is best to place the cat flap in a place that is easy for your cat, yet doesn't affect the integrity of your home's structure. A good place to put the cat flap is inside the doorway leading to an enclosed space, like your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from attempting to jump over it and will allow you to keep the cats safe from any possible dangers. Also, make sure that the flap for your cat is not too low to be used by the smallest cat, as taller cats may have difficulty leaping through a higher-height flap. It could be a good option to employ an experienced handyman if you have a sliding door or a window with a sash that is old-fashioned. It can be difficult to install an animal flap on these doors and windows and any 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 accurately cut the opening for the flap. Once you've marked the line using a spirit level, you can use it to ensure that it is perfectly horizontal. Review the instructions included with the 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've drawn and is centered on the center point of the door. Measurement A cat flap, also referred to as a dog door, is a small hole at the bottom of exterior doors or windows. It lets pets get in and out of the house. You can pick from a variety sizes and materials to find the perfect one for your pet. Before you purchase a cat flap, it is important to accurately measure the dimensions of your doors or window where you intend to install it. You will then be able to ensure that the cat flap you purchase will fit and the hole will be the right size. You can use this technique to measure the width of the opening by cutting off a portion and walking through it with your pet. It is also advisable to take the height of your feline from the floor to the bottom on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a level that your cats are comfortable using. If it's too low, they might struggle to pass through and if it's too high, they may not be able to use the flap at all. Generally, you should drill your holes at a 45 degree angle to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most stable and secure installation of your cat flap. It is recommended to use a spirit level to aid you in this, but if the directions included with your cat flap kit don't include this feature, a straight edge will do just as well. When putting the cat flap into a glass or UPVC window or door, it is recommended to hire an experienced glazier to complete this for you. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could compromise their strength and result in them breaking. This could pose an security risk to your home. It can also be difficult to install a cat flap in brick walls, as drilling into a soft part of the wall can create problems for cables and pipes running through the property. This can result in costly repairs or leaks, or even weather damage that comes from outside. Marking After you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the appropriate size flap, it's time to mark the location where the hole should go. Mark the center of the flap with your spirit level. If your template for the cat flap kit doesn't include a centreline, you can photocopy it. Then use cat flap fitting near me to draw around the template to mark where the hole should be cut. If the flap for your cat is set too low, your cat will struggle to get out and in, and when you set it too high, your cat might not be able to observe what's happening outside. It is best to make it close to your cat's belly height as possible to allow them the maximum comfort and security. It is essential to not place a cat flap too close to a solid wall frame. This could result in problems with draughts and damp. It's worth getting professional help if you aren't familiar with the masonry. Next step is to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is nearby to encourage them). Once they've done it then you can begin letting them go in and out as you would like. It is important not to push your cat or kitten through the flap at a high speed as this could cause them to be scared. The clunk, snap, and squeak of the door closing could cause harm to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if their tail is trapped in the flap. Cats also tend to return home to check for intruders so having the door open during this time could pose a risk because it could result in your pet being attacked by another cat they know. This is why it's best to install an uninspiring cat flap and only if your cat is aware of using it. Installation It is important to show your cat how to use the flap once it is installed. It will take a while however, with patience and a few treats to provide encouragement, your cat will eventually be able to utilize it. Install a lock on the cat flap if your pet needs extra security, especially during bad weather or when you're away from home. Decide where you want to put the cat flap on 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 more secure as they move into and out of the home, and will also help to keep other animals from entering your home. It is also important to take into consideration the height of the cat flap. This should be in line to your cat's measurement of stomach to ensure that they are able to move through. You can also set steps on either side of the entrance to assist your cat get through. Once you have determined where you want to put the cat flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with a pencil. This will help you determine the best place to cut. Then, you'll have to cut an area on the door with the aid of a Jigsaw. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask to protect your health from inhaling dust. After the square has been cut then sand the edges the door. This will create an even edge. When you are done sanding your door, it is time to can replace the cat flap. You should put the cat flap so that the lock (if there is one) is placed on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes in the event that there are any on the door. Then, carefully place the flap in the hole, making sure that it fits snugly.