How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they can be familiar with the dimensions and shape. Open the flap and let them explore it from all angles.
Ensure 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 flap inside your home is beneficial to the well-being and health of your pet. It allows your pet to freely move from inside to the outside without you needing to let them in or leave. It also stops them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food, or the door of the home.
The first thing that you'll need to do prior to beginning your cat flap install is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be placed. This is because eliminating any obstructions from the area will make it easier to work. It is also important to take away any furniture or other decorations that might hinder the installation.
You'll need to mark and measure the space in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will stop you from making a mistake that could cause damage to your wall or door. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to put the flap in a place that is easily accessible for your cat, yet doesn't harm the integrity of your home's structure.
A good place to put the cat flap is in an entrance that leads to an enclosed space, such as your laundry room or closet. This will stop the cat from jumping over it, and allow you to keep your cats safe from any possible dangers. You should also ensure that the cat flap is low enough to be used by the smallest cat, as taller cats may have difficulty leaping through a higher-height flap.
It could be a good idea to employ a professional handyman if you have a sliding door or a windows with sash that are old-fashioned. It isn't easy to install an animal flap on these windows and doors and any mistakes could cause costly damage. A professional will be able to install the cat flap safely and without harming the structural integrity of the door or window.
You'll need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to mark the flap's location. This will enable you to accurately cut the flap's opening. Once you have the line marked, use a spirit level to ensure it is perfectly horizontal. Check the instructions that came with your cat flap kit for 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 placed in the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap sometimes known as pet door is a small opening at the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that permits pets to go inside and out of the house. You can choose from a variety sizes and materials to find the best one for you and your pets.
Before purchasing an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the size of your doors or window in which you plan to install it. This way you can be sure that the hole is going to be of the correct size and that the cat flap will fit. One method is to block off a section of the door and then try to walk through it with your pet. This will give you a precise idea of the passage opening size (width).
It's also recommended to determine the height of your cat from the ground up to the bottom of their stomach. This will ensure that the flap is placed at a height that your cat is comfortable with. If it's too low they might have difficulty getting through and if it's too high, they may not be able to use the flap at all.
In general, you should aim to make your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will give the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap installation. If the cat flap kit you purchased didn't include a spirit level, a straight edge can be used in place.
When you are installing the cat flap to a glass or UPVC door or window it is best to employ a professional glazier to do this for you. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could weaken their integrity and lead to them shattering. This could create the risk of security for your home.
Installing a cat flap on brick walls can be a problem, too, since drilling into a soft area of the wall this can create problems for cables and pipes that run through the property. This can lead expensive repairs, or even leaks or weather damage from outside.
Marking
Mark the hole where you need it after measuring your cat's measurements. Mark the centre of the flap using your spirit level. If the template you have for the cat flap kit does not include an outline of the centreline, photocopy it. Then, use a pencil to draw around the template to mark where the hole should be cut.
If the flap for your cat is set too low, your cat could be unable to get into and out. Likewise, when you set it too high, your cat may not be able to observe what's going on outside. To ensure that your cat is safe and comfortable it is recommended to place the flap as close as you can to their belly.
It is also important to be careful not to put the cat flap too close to the frame of a wall that is solid as it can lead to problems with damp, draughts and stability. It's a good idea to seek help from a professional when you're not experienced with masonry.
Next, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is inside, encouraging them). Once they've made it through the door, you can slowly start to let them in and out at will.
It is important not to allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap too quickly because this could result in them being scared. They could be injured by the clunk and snap as it closes, and be even more scared if their tail is stuck in the flap as they try to exit. Cats also tend to return home to check on any intruders so having the door open at this time could be a problem since it could lead to your pet being attacked by a cat they know. This is why it's recommended to install a small cat flap and only if your cat or kitten knows to use it.
Installation
It is important to show your cat how to use the cat flap after it's installed. It will take some time however, with patience and a few treats for motivation your cat will eventually be able to use it. It is also possible to put a lock on the cat flap for added security, especially in harsh weather conditions or when you are out of the house.
The first thing you should decide where you want to put the cat flap on your door. It will need to be put in a spot that can open up to an area that is protected from the elements of your garden. This will make your cat feel more secure when they enter and exit the house and can keep other animals from entering your home.
It is also important to take into consideration the height of the flap. It should be in line with 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 set steps either side of the entrance to assist your cat get through.
Once you've decided on where you want to place the cat flap, you can measure the door with an eraser and mark the spot. This will allow you to determine the location you need to cut. The next step is to cut a square in the door using the jigsaw. It is recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask while doing this, as breathing in dust can be dangerous to your health. After cutting the square into pieces, it is essential to sand the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
After you've finished sanding, now replace the cat flap on your door. The cat flap inside such that the lock (if there is one) is placed on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes if there are any on the door. Then carefully insert the flap into the hole. Make sure that it fits snugly.