How to Install a Cat Flap
Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they can become familiar with the 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 on your door and align them with the cat flap opening The distance between the edges must be the same. Preparation Installing a cat flap at home can be beneficial for the health and wellbeing of your pet. This is because it lets them to freely move between indoors and out without needing to let them in or out. It can also prevent them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the door to the house. The first thing you'll need to do before starting your cat flap install is prepare the area in which it will be installed. It will be much easier to work if you remove any obstacles. You will also want to remove any furniture or decorations that might get in the way of the installation. When preparing the area, you will need to determine the exact location and measurement you plan on installing the cat flap. window with cat flap will help you avoid making a mistake which could cause damage to your wall or door. It is best to place the cat flap in a place that is easy for your cat, yet doesn't compromise the strength of the structure of your home. The cat flap can be put on the doorway leading to a locked space like your closet or laundry room. This will stop your cat from jumping over it and allows you to keep your cats safe from any possible dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for the smallest cat to use, since larger cats might struggle to jump through a flap that is higher. If you have a sliding patio door or an old style sash window, it might be an ideal idea to employ an experienced handyman to do the job. It isn't easy to install an animal flap on these windows and doors, and mistakes could lead to costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap safely and without damaging the structural integrity of the door or window. To mark the space for the cat flap you'll need an ruler or tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will allow you to precisely cut the opening for the cat flap. Use a spirit level once you've drawn the line to ensure it is horizontal. Review the instructions included with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach this to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line you've drawn and is aligned with the center point 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 allows pets to leave and enter the house. You can choose from a variety sizes and materials to find the best one for your pet and you. It is important to take measurements of your windows or doors prior to purchasing a new cat flap. You can then be sure that the cat flap will fit and the hole will be the right size. You can use this method to measure the width of the opening by blocking off a section and walking through it with your pet. It's also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the ground to the lowest part of their belly. This will ensure that the flap is set at a height your cats are comfortable with. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through and if it's high they may be unable 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. Ideally you should use a spirit-level to aid you in this but if the instructions that came with your cat flap kit don't have this then straight edges will work just as well. It's best to hire a professional glazier install the cat flap on a UPVC or glass door or window. The doors are usually made tougher and drilling could compromise their strength and lead to them shattering. This could pose a security threat for your home. It is also difficult to install a cat flap on a brick wall, as drilling into a soft part of the wall can create issues for pipes and cables running through the property. This could result in costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage caused by the outside. Marking Once you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the correct size flap, it's time to mark the location where the hole needs to go. Use your spirit level to ensure it is parallel to the door, and then mark the center point. If the template for your cat flap kit does not include a centre line, photocopy it and trace around it with a pencil to mark the location where the hole needs to be cut. Remember, if your cat's flap is too low, it could make it difficult for your cat to get into and out of the home, and if it's too high, they might struggle to see what's happening outside. To ensure that your cat feels safe and comfortable it is best to position the flap as close as possible to their stomach. It is crucial to avoid placing a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This could result in problems with damp and draughts. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you're not familiar with the masonry. Then then, open the door and encourage your cat kitten to enter it by pointing out where they should go (it helps if someone's on the inside to help them). Once they've passed, you can start letting them in and out as they would like. It's crucial to not force your cat or kitten through the flap too fast as this could lead to them being scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk and snap as it closes, and be even more scared if their tail gets caught in it as they try to exit. Cats also are known to return 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 another cat that they know. This is why it's recommended to install an uninspiring cat flap and only if your cat or kitten is aware of using 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 for encouragement, your cat will eventually be able to utilize it. You might also want to put a lock on the flap to provide security, especially during adverse weather conditions or when you are away from home. Decide where you'd like to place the cat flap on your door. It will need to be put in a spot that opens into a sheltered part of your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure when they exit and enter the home and will keep other animals from entering your home. It is also important to take into consideration the height of the flap for your cat. This should be in line with your cat's stomach measurement to ensure that they can move through. You can also set steps either side of the entrance to help your cat to get through. After you have determined where you want to place the cat flap Measure the door and mark it with the pencil. This will provide you with a guide for the best place to cut. Then, you'll need to cut out an area around the door with an jigsaw. Wear safety goggles, and a dust mask, to protect your health from inhaling dust. After the square is cut then sand the edges the door. This will create a smooth edge. After you've finished sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The flap must be installed so that the lock, if there's one, is on the inside of your door. If there are screw holes for the cat flap on the door, then drill them into place. You should then carefully place the cat flap into the hole, making sure that it fits snuggly.