How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they become familiar with the size and shape. Unlock the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure that 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 must be the same.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap inside your home can be beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. It allows your pet to move from inside to the outside, without having allow them to enter or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food, or the door of the house.
Prepare the area where you plan to install your cat flap prior to begin. It will be easier to work with if you eliminate any obstacles. Also, you should take away any furniture or other decorations that might hinder your work.
When preparing doors with cat flap is important to determine the exact location and measurement you plan on installing the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake that could ruin the door or wall. You should put the cat flap in a spot that is accessible for your cats, but won't compromise your home's structural integrity.
The cat flap can be put on the doorway leading to a locked space like your closet or laundry room. This will prevent your cat from tripping over it and you can keep your cats away from dangers. You should also ensure that the cat flap is not too low to be used by the small cat, since taller cats will struggle leaping through a higher-height flap.
If you have an open patio door that slides or an old style sash window, it could be best to employ an experienced handyman to do the job. Installing a cat flap in these doors and windows isn't easy and mistakes could lead to expensive damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the structure of the window or door's strength.
You'll need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to mark the area to be used for the flap. This will enable you to precisely cut the opening for the cat flap. Once you have the line drawn with a spirit-level, use it to ensure it is completely horizontal. Then, go through the directions included in the cat flap kit to locate the template. Attach the template to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is with the horizontal lines you've drawn. The template should be placed in the center of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, sometimes referred to as a pet door is a small opening in the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that permits a pet to enter and leave the home. You can choose from a variety of sizes and materials to find the perfect one for you and your pets.
Before you purchase a cat flap, it is important to accurately measure the dimensions of your doors or window in which you're planning to put it. You can then be sure that your cat flap will fit and that the hole will be the right size. You can use this method to determine the width of the opening by blocking off a portion and walking through it with your pet.
It is also advisable to measure the height of your feline from the floor to the bottom on their belly. This will ensure the flap is installed in an area where your cats feel comfortable. If it's too low they might struggle to pass through and if it's too high they may be unable to use the flap in any way.
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 install. The best option is to utilize a spirit level to aid you in this but if the instructions that came with your cat flap kit don't include this feature, a straight edge can work equally well.
It's best to hire a professional glazier put in the cat flap in a UPVC or glass door or window. The doors are typically toughened and drilling could compromise their strength and lead to them shattering. This could create an security risk to your home.
It can be a challenge to install a cat flap on brick walls, since drilling into a soft section of the wall can create problems for cables and pipes that run through the property. This could result in costly repairs or even leaks and weather damage from outside.
Marking
Mark the hole in which you require it after you have measured your cat's measurements. Mark the centre of the flap using your spirit level. If the template for the cat flap doesn't include a centre line, photocopy it and trace around it with a pencil to mark the area where the hole must be cut.
If the cat flap is set too low, your cat may be unable to get in and out, and should you put it too high, the cat might not be able to observe what's going on outside. It is recommended to get it close to your cat's belly height as you can to give them the maximum comfort and security.
It is essential to keep a cat flap from being too close to a wall frame. This could cause issues with damp and draughts. If you're not experienced 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 helps if a person is inside, to encourage them). Once they've passed then you can begin letting them in and out as you want.
It's important that you don't allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap in a hurry as this could lead to them becoming scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing could cause harm to your kitten or cat. They'll be more terrified if their tail is caught in the flap. Cats also are known to return home to look for intruders so having the door open can also be a concern because it could result in your pet being attacked by another cat they know. Installing a small cat door is recommended if your kitten or cat knows how to use it.
Installation
Once the cat flap is in place It is essential to teach your cat to use it. It will take some time, but with patience, and a few treats as an incentive, your cat will eventually be able to use it. You may also want to put a lock on the cat flap for added security, especially during adverse weather conditions or when you are away from the house.
Decide where you want to put the cat flap on your door. It must be located in a place that can open up to an area that is sheltered from the garden. This will make your cat feel more secure as they go into and out of your house, and can help keep other animals out of your home.
Another thing to consider is the height you want to put the cat flap at. This should be in accordance with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they are able to move through. You could also think about placing steps on either side of the door, to help your cat move through it more easily.
Once you've determined where you want to put the flap, measure the door and mark it with a pencil. This will give you an idea of the best place to cut. Then, you'll have to cut out a square on the door with the aid of a Jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety glasses and a mask for dust protection while working on this, as inhaling the dust can be dangerous to your health. Once the square is cut and trimmed, you must smooth the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
Once you have finished sanding, now replace the cat flap in your door. The flap should be put in a position where the lock, if there is one, is on the inside of the door. If there are screw holes for the cat flap on the door, now drill these into place. Then carefully insert the flap into the hole. Make sure that it fits snugly.