How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to installation so that they become familiar with its size and shape. Prop the flap open and let them explore it from every angle.
Make sure that the cutout is even and square. 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 for the health and well-being of your pet. This is because it allows them to freely move between indoors and outside without you having to let them in or out. It also stops them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food, or the door of the home.
The first thing that you must do prior to beginning the installation of your cat flap is to prepare the area in which it will be located. This is because removing obstructions from the area will help you to work. Also, you should remove any furniture and decorations that could hinder the installation.
When preparing the area you must measure and mark out where you intend to put the cat flap. This will help you avoid making a mistake which could damage the door or wall. You should put the cat flap in a place that is easily accessible to your cats, but won't harm the structural integrity of your home.
The cat flap can be set in a door that leads to a space that is closed like your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from attempting to jump over it, and allow you to keep the cats safe from any possible dangers. You should also ensure that the cat flap is low enough to be used by your small cat, since taller cats will struggle leaping through a flap that is higher.
If you have a sliding patio door or an old-fashioned sash window, it could be a good idea to hire an experienced handyman to do the job. It isn't easy to install a cat flap on these windows and doors and a mistake could cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the structure of the window or door's strength.
To mark the space to place the cat flap, you'll need a ruler or a tape measure to determine the height of your cat's belly from the floor. This will enable you to accurately cut out the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level after having drawn the line to ensure it is horizontal. After that, read the instructions included in the cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach it to your door so that the bottom edge of the template coincides with the horizontal line that you've drawn and is centered on the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, sometimes referred to as pet door is a small opening in the bottom of your external doors or windows that permits a pet to leave and enter the home. You can pick from a range of sizes and materials to find the right one for your pet and you.
Before purchasing an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the dimensions of your doors or window in which you're planning to put it. You can then be sure that the cat flap will fit and that the hole will be the right 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 accurate picture of the opening size (width).
It is also advisable to measure the height of your feline from the floor to the lowest part on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is placed at an area where your cats are at ease. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through and if it's high, they might not be able to use the flap at all.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most secure and stable installation of your cat flap. If your cat flap kit did not come with a spirit level, a straight edge can be used in place.
When you are installing the cat flap into glass or UPVC door or window it is recommended to hire an experienced glazier to complete this for you. The doors are typically toughened and drilling could weaken their integrity and result in them breaking. This could be an security risk to your home.
It is also difficult to install a cat flap inside brick walls, since drilling into a soft part of the wall can create problems for cables and pipes running through the property. This can lead expensive repairs and leaks, as well as weather damage that comes from outside.
Marking
Mark the hole where you need it after measuring your cat's measurements. Use your spirit level to ensure it is parallel to the door, then mark the center point. If the template for the cat flap doesn't include a centre line, photocopy it and trace around it using a pencil to mark the spot where the hole will need to be cut.
If the flap for your cat is set too low, your cat could have difficulty getting out and in, and should you put it too high, the cat may not be able to see what's going on outside. It is best to make it as close to the height of your cat's belly as possible to allow them the greatest comfort and security.
Also, you should be aware not to put a cat flap in too close to the frame of a solid wall, as it can lead to problems with damp, draughts, and stability. It's worth getting professional help when you're not experienced with masonry.
Then, prop the door open and encourage your cat or kitten to come through it by showing them where to go (it is helpful if someone else is on the inside to help them). Once they've done it then you can begin letting them in and out as you would like.
It is important not to push your kitten or cat through the flap too fast because this can cause them to become scared. The clunk and snap squeak of the door closing could cause injury to your kitten or cat. They will be even more terrified if their tail gets stuck in the flap. Cats also are known to return home to check for intrusions, so having the door open during this time could pose a risk because it could result in your pet being attacked by a cat they know. This is the reason it's best to install an uninspiring cat flap and only if your cat or kitten is aware of its use.
Installation
Once the cat flap is set, it is important to show your cat how to use it. It may take some time however, with patience and a few treats to provide motivation, your cat will eventually be able to use it. Install a lock on the cat flap if you need extra security, especially in the event of bad weather or you're away from home.
Choose the location where you'd like to put the cat flap on your door. It should be placed in a location that can open up to a sheltered part of your garden. This will allow your cat to feel safer as they exit and enter the home and will also stop other animals from entering your home.
Another factor to consider is the height you'd like to set the cat flap at. This should be in the same space as the measurement of your cat's belly so that they can get through easily. You could also think about placing steps either side of the door to assist your cat move through it with ease.
Once you have determined where you want to place the cat flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with a pencil. This will provide you with a guide for the best place to cut. Then, you'll need to cut an area on the door with an jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask when doing this, since inhaling dust can be dangerous to your health. After the square is cut and sanded, you can sand the edges of the door. This will give a smooth edge.
When you are done sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. You should put the cat flap in such 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 insert Highly recommended Internet site into the hole. Make sure it fits snugly.