How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap before it's installed so they can be familiar with the size and shape. Prop the flap open and let them explore it from all angles.
Make sure that the cut-out is even and square. Mark the screw holes and align them with your cat flap opening. The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat-proof flap in your home is beneficial for the health and well-being of your pet. This is because it allows the pet to move freely between the indoors and outdoors without needing to let them in or out. It can also stop them fighting over litter box and cat food or even the entrance to the house.
Set up the area in which you'll 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 decorations that could hinder the installation.
You'll have to trace and measure the area in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will allow you to avoid making an error that could damage the wall or door. It is best to put the flap somewhere that is easily accessible to your cat, yet 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 laundry room or closet. This will prevent your cat from soaring over it and you can protect your pets from dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for your smallest cat to access, as larger cats might struggle to climb over the flap.
If you have an open patio door that slides or an old-fashioned sash window, it might be a good idea to employ an experienced handyman to do the task. It isn't easy to install the cat flap on these doors and windows and a mistake could cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the door or window's structural strength.
You will need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to mark the flap's location. This will enable you to precisely cut the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level after having marked the line to make sure it is horizontal. Then, go through the directions included in your cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach the template to the door so that the bottom edge coincides with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. replacement upvc door panels with cat flap should be aligned in the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, sometimes referred to as pet doors is a small opening in the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that permits a pet to leave and enter the house. You can pick from a range of sizes and materials to find the best one for you and your pets.
Before purchasing a cat flap, it is important to accurately measure the size of your windows or doors where you intend to install it. This way, you will be able to ensure that the hole will to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. This method can be used to determine the size of the opening by securing off a section of it and walking through it with your pet.
It is also advisable to take the height of your cat from the floor to the lowest part on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is placed at a level that your cats are comfortable with. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through and if it's high, they may not be able to use the flap in any way.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will provide the most stable and secure fixings for the installation of your cat flap. Ideally you should use a spirit-level to aid you in this but if the instructions included with your cat flap kit do not include this, a straight edge can work equally well.
When you are installing the cat flap to a glass or UPVC window or door, it's best to hire an expert glazier to do this for you. This is because these types of doors are typically made of toughened glass and drilling into them may compromise the strength of the glass and could lead to it shattering in the future, which could pose a security risk for your home.
Installing a cat flap on brick walls can be a problem, too, since drilling into a soft section of the wall, it could create problems for cables and pipes that run through the property. This can lead to expensive repairs or even leaks or weather damage from outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them, it's time to mark where the hole needs to go. Utilizing your spirit level to ensure that it's flush with the door, then mark the centre point. If the template for the cat flap kit doesn't include the centreline, you can photocopy it. Then, you can use a pencil to trace around the template to mark where the hole should be cut.
If the cat flap is too low, your cat could have difficulty getting in and out, and should you put it too high, your cat might not be able to see what's happening outside. It is recommended to get it close to your cat's belly as you can, to provide them with the maximum comfort and security.
Also, you should be aware not to put a cat flap in too close to the frame of a wall that is solid as it can lead to problems with damp, draughts and stability. It's worth getting professional help if you aren't familiar with masonry.
Then, prop the door open and encourage your cat kitten to go through it by pointing them to where they need to go (it is helpful if someone else is in the room to encourage them). Once they've walked through it and are comfortable, you can slowly begin to let them in and out at will.
You should not push your kitten or cat through the flap too quickly because this can cause them to be scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk and snap as it closes, and they could be terrified if their tail gets stuck in the flap as they attempt to get out. Cats also return home to search for intruders. Leaving the door open could be dangerous. Your pet could be attacked by another cat they are familiar with. This is why it's recommended to put up a small cat flap only and only when your cat or kitten is aware of using it.
Installation
It is crucial to teach your cat how to use the flap once it's installed. It will take a while but with patience and a few treats as encouragement your cat will eventually be able to use it. Install a lock to the cat flap if your pet needs additional security, especially during bad weather or when you're away from home.
Decide where you want to place the cat flap on your door. This will need to be located in a place that opens out into a sheltered area of your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure when they leave and enter the house and can keep other animals from entering your home.
Another factor to consider is the height that you'd like to place the cat flap at. This should be in the same space as the measurement of your cat's belly, as this will ensure that they will be able to pass through the door easily. You can also consider placing steps either side of the door to assist your cat get through it with ease.
Once you've decided on where you'd like to put the cat flap, you can measure the door with an eraser and mark the spot. This will give you an idea of where to cut. Then, you'll have to cut an area on the door using a Jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask while doing this, as inhaling the dust could be hazardous to your health. After the square is cut then sand the edges the door. This will give a smooth edge.
After you've finished sanding, you can now replace the cat flap inside your door. The flap must be put in a position where the lock, if there's one, is on the inside of your door. Drill the screw holes should there be any on the door. Then, carefully place the cat flap into the hole, ensuring that it fits snugly.