How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to installation to allow them to become familiar with the dimensions and shape. Unlock the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cut-out is level and ensure that the cut-out is square and even. Mark the screw holes on the door and align them with the opening of the cat flap The distance between the edges should be the same.
Preparation
A cat flap in your home can be beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. It will allow your pet to freely move from the inside to the outside without needing to let them in or leave. It also stops them from fighting over cat food and litter box or even the entrance to the house itself.
The first thing that you will need to do prior to beginning the installation of your cat flap is to prepare the area where it will be located. This is because removing any obstacles from the area will make it easier to work. Also, you should take out any furniture or decorations that could get in the way of the installation.
You'll be required to mark and measure the area in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will help you avoid making an error that could damage the wall or door. Ideally, you will want to place the cat flap somewhere that is easy for your pets, but doesn't compromise the integrity of your home's structure.
The best place to put the cat flap is a door that leads to an enclosed space, like your laundry room or closet. This will prevent your cat from tripping over it and you can protect your pets from dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for the smallest cat to access, as larger cats might struggle to jump through a higher flap.
If you have a sliding patio door or an old-fashioned sash window, it could be an ideal idea to hire an expert handyman for the job. It isn't easy to install an animal flap on these doors and windows, and mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the structural integrity.
You will need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground in order to mark the area for the flap. This will enable you to accurately cut out the opening for the cat flap. Once you've marked the line with a spirit-level, use it to ensure that it is horizontal. Next, check the instructions included with your cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach the template to your door so that the bottom edge coincides with the horizontal lines you've drawn. The template should be placed in the middle of your door.
Measurement
A cat flap sometimes known as a pet door is a small hole in the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that allow a pet to leave and enter the house. They come in various sizes and materials so that you can choose the best one for your house and pets.
It is essential to take measurements of your doors or windows before you buy a new cat flap. It is then possible to be certain that the cat flap you purchase will fit and the hole will be the right size. An effective method is to block off a portion of the door and then try to walk through it with your pet, this will give you an accurate picture of the opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the ground up to the lowest point of their stomach. This will ensure that the flap is placed at a height that your cats are comfortable using. If it's too low, they may struggle to pass through. If it is too high, they may not be in a position to use the flap.
In general, you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most stable and secure installation of your cat flap. over here is recommended to use a spirit-level to help you with this but if the instructions included with your cat flap kit do not include this, straight edges will work just as well.
When you are installing the cat flap onto a glass or UPVC window or door, it is best to employ an expert glazier to do this for you. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could compromise their strength and cause them to shatter. This could be a security threat for your home.
Putting a cat flap into the brick wall could be problematic, too, because when you drill into a soft part of the wall this can cause problems with pipes and cables that go through the property. This could result in costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage from outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat kitten to find the right size flap then you need to mark where the hole needs to go. Mark the center of the flap with your spirit level. If the template for the cat flap kit does not include the centreline, you can photocopy it. Then, you can use the pencil to trace around the template to mark the location where the hole will be cut.
If the cat flap is set too low, your cat will have difficulty getting into and out. Likewise, should you put it too high, the cat may not be able to observe what's going on outside. To ensure your cat feels safe and comfortable, it is best to place the flap as close as possible to their stomach.
Also, you should be careful not to put a cat flap in too close to the frame of a solid wall, as it could cause problems with draughts, damp and stability. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you're not familiar with masonry.
Then, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is on the inside encouraging them). Once they've walked through it, you can slowly start to allow them to enter and exit at will.
It's crucial to not allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap too fast as this could lead to them becoming scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing may cause injuries to your cat or kitten. They will be even more terrified if their tail gets stuck in the flap. Cats are also known to return home to search for intruders, and leaving the door open can be dangerous. Your pet may be attacked by a cat they know. This is why it's recommended to put up an uninspiring cat flap and only if your cat or kitten is aware of its use.
Installation
It is crucial to teach your cat how to use the cat flap once it's been installed. It will take some time but with patience and a few treats to entice them to learn, they will eventually get hang of 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 should be placed in a location that opens up into a sheltered part of your garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure when they move into and out of the home, and will also help prevent other animals from accessing your home.
Also, you should take into consideration the height of the flap. This should be in line to your cat's measurement of stomach to ensure that they are able to pass through. You could also think about placing steps on either side of the door to assist your cat get through it with ease.
Once you've decided where you want to place the cat flap You can measure the door with an eraser and mark the location. This will give you an idea of where to cut. You will then need to cut a square into the door using the Jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask while doing this, as inhaling dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut then sand the edges the door. This will give an even edge.
After you have finished sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The cat flap such that the lock (if there is one) is positioned on the inside of the door. If there are holes for screws for the cat flap on the door, you must now drill these into place. You should then carefully place the cat flap into the hole, making sure it fits snugly.