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. The flap should be opened and let your cat explore it from every angle. Make sure that the cutout is square and even. Mark the screw holes and align them with the cat flap opening. The distance between the edges should be equal. Preparation Installing a cat-proof flap in your home can be beneficial to the well-being and health of your pet. This is because it allows them to move freely between the indoors and outdoors without needing to allow them to enter or exit. It also stops them from fighting over the litter box and cat food or even the door to the house itself. Prepare the area in which you'll install your cat flap prior to when you begin. This is because removing any obstructions from the area will make it easier to work. You will also want to take away any furniture or other decorations that might hinder your installation. You'll need to mark and measure the space in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake that could cause damage to the door or wall. It is important to place the cat flap in a place that is accessible for your cat, but doesn't affect the structural integrity of your home. A good place to put the cat flap is an entrance that leads to a closed space, such as your laundry room or closet. This will stop your cat from attempting to jump over it, and allow you to keep the cats safe from any possible dangers. You should also ensure that the flap for your cat is not too low to be used by your smaller cat, as taller cats will struggle leaping through a higher-height flap. If you have a sliding patio door or an old style sash window, it might be an ideal idea to employ a professional handyman for the job. It can be difficult to install an animal flap on these doors and windows and a mistake could cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the structure of the window or door's strength. You'll need to determine the height of your cat's belly from the ground to determine the area for the flap. This will enable you to precisely cut the opening for the flap. Once you've marked the line using a spirit level, you can use it to ensure that it is horizontal. Review the instructions included with the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach it to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line you've drawn and is centered on the centre of the door. Measurement A cat flap, also referred to as a dog door is a small opening located at the bottom of doors or windows. It lets pets enter and exit the home. They come in different sizes and materials so that you can choose the best one for your home and pet. It is important to take measurements of your doors or windows prior to purchasing a new cat flap. This way, you can be sure 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 an exact idea of the opening size (width). It is also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the floor to the lowest point on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is set at an area where your cats feel comfortable. If it is too low, they may struggle to get through. If it's too high, they may not be capable of using the flap. In general, you should try to create your holes at a 45-degree angle to the vertical surface. This will result in the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap installation. It is recommended to utilize a spirit level to assist you with this, however if the instructions included with your kit for installing a cat flap don't have this then straight edges will work just as well. When fitting the cat flap into a glass or UPVC window or door, it is best to employ a professional glazier to do this for you. 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 can also be difficult to install a cat flap inside brick walls, as drilling into a soft area of the wall can create issues for pipes and cables that run through the property. This could lead to costly repairs, or even leaks or weather damage from outside. cat flap installers near me in which you require it after you have measured your cat. Make use of your spirit level to ensure that it's in line 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, use a pencil to trace around the template to mark where the hole should be cut. Remember, if the cat flap is too low, it could be difficult for your cat to climb in and out of the home, and if it's too high, they might struggle to see what's going on outside. It is best to get it as close to your cat's belly height as you can, to provide them with the most comfort and security. It is essential to avoid placing a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This can cause problems with damp and draughts. It's a good idea to seek help from a professional if you aren't familiar with masonry. Next, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is on the inside helping them). Once they've made their way through the door, you can slowly start to let them in and out at will. You should not push your kitten or cat through the flap too quickly as this could cause them to be scared. They could be injured by the clunk and snap when the flap closes, and be even more scared if their tail is caught in it when they attempt to leave. Cats also are known to return home to check on any intrusions, so having the door open at this time could pose a risk as it can lead to your pet being attacked by a cat that they know. Installing a small cat door is best when your cat or kitten is able to use it. Installation Once the cat flap is set It is essential to teach your cat how to use it. It may take some time, but with patience and some treats to encourage them to learn, they will eventually get the grasp of it. Install a lock on the cat flap if you want extra security, particularly during bad weather or when you're away from home. Decide where you'd like to put the cat flap on your door. It will need to be placed in a location that can open up to an area that is protected from the elements of your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure when they enter and exit the home and will also prevent other animals from entering your home. You should also consider the height of the cat flap. This should be in the same area as the measurement of your cat's belly, as this will ensure that they will be able to pass through with ease. You can also consider placing steps either side of the door, to help your cat move through it with ease. Once you've decided on where you'd like to put the cat flap, you can measure the door using a pencil and mark the spot. This will provide you with a guide for where to cut. Then, you'll have to cut an area on the door using the aid of a Jigsaw. Wear safety goggles, and a dust mask to protect your health from inhaling dust. After cutting the square, it is necessary to sand around the edges of the door to create smooth edges. Once you have finished sanding, now replace the cat flap in your door. The flap should be put in a position where the lock, if it has one, is on the side of your door. Make the screw holes, should there be any on the door. You should then carefully place the cat flap into the hole, ensuring that it fits snugly.