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. Prop the flap open and let them explore it from all angles.
Make sure the cut-out is level and square. 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 to the well-being and health of your pet. This is because it lets them to move freely 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 to the home.
Set up the area where you plan to install your cat flap prior to begin. This is because removing any obstructions from the area will help you to work. It is also important to take away any furniture or other decorations that might get in the way of the installation.
In preparing the area, you will need to measure and mark out where you plan on installing the cat flap. This will allow you to avoid making an error that could damage your door or wall. Ideally, you will want to place the cat flap somewhere that is easy for your cat, yet doesn't compromise the structural integrity of your home.
A good spot 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 jumping over it and will allow you to keep your cats from any potential dangers. The flap should be low enough for your cat's smallest to use, as larger cats might struggle to leap through a flap that is higher.
It is a good option to employ an experienced handyman when you have a sliding door or a windows with sash that are old-fashioned. It isn't easy to install the cat flap on these windows and doors and any mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the structural integrity.
You'll need to determine the height of your cat's belly from the ground to determine the flap's location. This will enable you to cut precisely the opening for the flap. Once you have the line marked with a spirit-level, use it to make sure it is perfectly horizontal. Follow the directions that came with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach the template to the door so that the bottom edge is in line with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. The template should be placed in the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap sometimes known as a pet door is a small hole in the bottom of your external doors or windows that permits pets to go inside and out of the home. You can choose from a range of sizes and materials to find the right one for you and your pets.
It is important to take measurements of your doors or windows before you buy the new cat flap. cat flap insulation can be sure that the hole will to be of the correct size and that the cat flap will fit. A good technique is to block off a portion of the door and try to walk through with your pet, this will give you a precise idea of the opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the ground to the lowest point of their belly. This will ensure the flap is set at an area where your cats are at ease. If it's too low, they could struggle to get through. If it is too high, they may not be capable of using the flap.
In general, you should aim to create your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most secure and stable installation of your cat flap. If the cat flap kit you purchased didn't include a spirit level, a straight edge can be used instead.
When putting the cat flap onto a glass or UPVC door or window it is recommended to hire a professional glazier to do this for you. This is because these kinds of doors are usually made of toughened glass and drilling into them could weaken the integrity of the glass and possibly lead to it shattering in the future, which could pose a security hazard for your home.
Putting a cat flap into a brick wall can be problematic too, as drilling into a soft area of the wall, this could cause issues with pipes and cables that run through the property. This could result in costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage caused by the outside.
Marking
Mark the hole you'll need it after you have measured your cat's measurements. Mark the centre of the flap with your spirit level. If the template you have for the cat flap kit doesn't include the centreline, you can photocopy it. Then use a pencil to trace around the template to indicate where the hole should be cut.
Be aware that if the cat flap is too low, it could be difficult for your cat to get in and out of the home, and if it's too high, they may struggle to see what is happening outside. To ensure your cat feels secure and safe it is recommended to put the flap as close as possible to their belly.
It is essential to avoid placing 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 when you're not experienced with masonry.
Next, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is nearby encouraging them). Once they've made their way through it and are comfortable, you can slowly begin to let them in and out at will.
It is important not to push your cat or kitten through the flap too fast as this could lead to them becoming scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk and snap when it closes, and be even more scared if their tail is caught in it when they attempt to get out. Cats also have a habit of returning home to look for intruders so having the door open at this time can also be a concern because it could result in your pet being attacked by a cat that they know. This is the reason it's best to put up a small cat flap only and only when your cat or kitten knows to use it.
Installation
It is important to show your cat how to use the flap once it's been installed. It may take some time however, with patience and a few treats to provide encouragement your cat will eventually learn to utilize it. You might also want to put a lock on the cat flap for added security, especially in harsh weather conditions or when out of the house.
The first thing to do is decide the location you'd like to place the cat flap in your door. It must be placed in a spot that can open up to an area that is sheltered from the garden. This will help your cat feel more secure as they go into and out of the house, and also keep other animals out of your home.
Another factor to consider is the height that you want to put the flap for your cat at. This should be in the same area as your cat's belly measurement, so that they can get through with ease. You can also put steps either side of the entrance to help your cat pass through.
After you have decided where you would like to place the cat flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with a pencil. This will give you an idea of where to cut. Then, you'll have to cut out an area on the door using a jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask when doing this, since breathing in dust could be hazardous to your health. After the square is cut into pieces, it is essential to sand around the edges of the door to smooth the edges.
When you are done the sanding process, you can replace the cat flap. The flap must be put in a position where the lock, if it has one, is located on the inside of your door. Make the screw holes, should there be any on the door. Then you can carefully place the cat flap in the hole. Make sure it fits perfectly.