How to Install a Cat Flap
Introduce your cat to the flap prior to installation so that they become familiar with the size and shape. Open the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle. Ensure the cut-out is even and square. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the opening of the cat flap – the distance between the edges must be equal. Preparation Having a cat flap installed in your home can be beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet. It will allow your pet to freely move from inside to the outside without you needing to let them in or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the entrance to the home. Set up the area where you'll be installing your cat flap before you begin. It will be simpler to work if you remove any obstructions. It is also important to remove any furniture or decorations that might hinder the installation. You'll have to trace and measure the area where you'll be installing the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake that could damage your wall or door. You should put the cat flap in a location that is accessible for your pets, but doesn't affect the structural integrity of your home. The cat flap can be put in a door that leads to a closed space such as your closet or laundry room. This will prevent your cat from tripping over it and will protect your cat from dangers. It is also important to ensure that the flap for your cat is low enough to be used by the smallest cat, as larger cats may struggle to leap through a higher-height flap. If you have sliding patio doors or an old style sash window, it could be best to employ an expert handyman for the job. Installing a cat flap into these windows and doors isn't easy and 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 will need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to determine the flap's location. This will enable you to accurately cut the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level after having drawn the line to ensure it is horizontal. Next, check the instructions that came with your cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach the template to your door so that the bottom edge is in line with the horizontal lines you've drawn. The template should be aligned in the middle of your door. Measurement A cat flap, sometimes referred to as pet door is a small opening at the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that permits a pet to enter and leave the home. They are available in different sizes and materials so that you can choose the best one for your home and pet. Before you buy a cat flap it's 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 to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. One method is to block off a part of the door and then try to walk through with your pet. This will give you a precise idea of the passage opening size (width). It is also advisable to measure the height of your feline from the floor to the lowest point on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a height that your cats are comfortable with. If it is too low, they could struggle to get through. If it's too high, they might not be able to use the flap. In general, you should drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most stable and secure installation of your cat flap. If your cat flap kit didn't include a spirit-level, a straight edge could be used in place. It's best to have a professional glazier install the cat flap on a UPVC or glass door or window. This is because these kinds of doors are usually toughened and drilling into them can compromise the strength of the glass and may 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 if you drill into a soft section 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 After you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the correct size flap for them It's time to mark where the hole should go. Make use of your spirit level to make sure that it's in line with the door, then mark the centre point. If your template for the cat flap kit does not include a centreline, you can photocopy it. Then, use a pencil to trace around the template to indicate where the hole should be cut. If the flap for your cat is too low, your cat will struggle to get in and out, and should you put it too high, the cat may not be able to see what's happening outside. To ensure your cat feels secure and safe it is recommended to position the flap as close as you can to their stomach. It is crucial to not place a cat flap too close to a solid wall frame. This could cause issues with draughts and damp. It's a good idea to seek help from a professional when you're not experienced with the masonry. Then you need to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if someone is on the inside encouraging them). Once they've made it through it then you can gradually begin to allow them to enter and exit at will. It is not advisable to push your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly because it could cause them to become scared. They could be injured by the clunk and snap when it closes, and be even more scared if their tail gets stuck in the flap as they try to exit. Cats are also known to return home to check for intruders. Leaving the door open could be risky. Your cat could be attacked by a cat they are familiar with. Installing the door for your cat is recommended when your cat or kitten is able to use it. Installation It is crucial to teach your cat how to use the cat flap after it is installed. It may take some time but with patience and a few treats for motivation, your cat will eventually learn to use it. Install a lock to your cat flap if you need extra security, particularly in the event of bad weather or you're away from home. Decide where you want to place the cat flap on your door. It will need to be put in a spot that opens into an area of protection in your garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure as they come in and out of the home, and will also help prevent other animals from accessing your home. It is also important to consider the height of the cat flap. It should be in line with your cat's belly measurement, to ensure that they can get through the door easily. It is also possible to put steps on either side of the door to help your cat navigate it with ease. Once you've determined where you'd like to place the cat flap then you can measure the door using an eraser and mark the area. This will give you an idea of the best place to cut. Then, you'll need to cut out a square on the door with the aid of a jigsaw. It is recommended to wear safety glasses and a dust protection mask while doing this, as inhaling dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut into pieces, it is essential to sand the edges of the door to smooth the edges. After you've finished sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The flap should be put in a position where the lock, if it has one, is located on the inside of the door. Drill through wall cat flap in the event that there are any on the door. You should then carefully place the cat flap into the hole, making sure it fits snugly.