How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's installed so they can get used to the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure that 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 the same.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap at home can be beneficial for the health and well-being of your pet. It allows your pet to freely move from the inside to the outside without having allow them in or out. It can also stop them fighting over the litter box and cat food, or even the door to the house itself.
The first thing that you must do prior to starting your cat flap install is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be installed. This is because removing obstructions from the area will help you to work. Also, you should remove any furniture and decorations that may interfere with your installation.
You'll be required to mark and measure the space where you'll be installing the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake which could ruin your wall or door. Ideally, window cat flap will want to put the cat flap somewhere that is easy for your pets, but doesn't affect the integrity of your home's structure.
A good place to put the cat flap is the doorway leading to a closed space, like your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from tripping over it and will protect your pets from potential dangers. You should also ensure that the flap for your cat is not too low to be used by the smallest cat, as taller cats may have difficulty leaping through a higher-height flap.
If you have an open patio door that slides or an old style sash window, it could be best to employ an experienced handyman to do the task. Installing a cat flap on these doors and windows isn't easy and mistakes can lead to expensive damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the structure of the window or door's integrity.
To determine the space for the cat flap, you'll need a ruler or a tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will enable you to accurately cut the opening for the flap. Once you have the line drawn using a spirit level, you can use it to make sure it is completely horizontal. After that, read the instructions included with the cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach the template to the door so that the bottom edge coincides with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. The template should be centered at the center of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as a dog door is a small opening located at the bottom of exterior doors or windows. It lets pets get in and out of the house. You can choose from a variety of sizes and materials to find the best one for your pet and you.
Before you purchase a cat flap it's important to accurately measure the dimensions of your windows or doors in which you're planning to put 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. This method can be used to determine the width of the opening by blocking off a section of it and walking through it with your pet.
It's also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the ground to the lowest point of their stomach. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a height that your cats are comfortable using. If it's too low they may struggle to get through and if it's high, they may not be able to use the flap in any way.
Generally, you should 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 help you with this, but if the directions included with your cat flap kit don't have this then straight edges will work just as well.
When putting the cat flap into a glass or UPVC door or window it is recommended to hire an expert glazier to do this for you. These doors are usually toughened, and drilling can weaken their integrity and lead to them shattering. This could be an security risk to your home.
Installing a cat flap on a brick wall can be problematic too, as if you drill into a soft part of the wall this can cause issues with pipes and cables that run through the property. This could lead to costly repairs, or even leaks or weather damage from outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them then you need to mark the location where the hole needs to go. Mark the centre of the flap using your spirit level. If the template for the cat flap kit doesn't include an outline of the centreline, photocopy it. Then, you can use the pencil to trace around the template to indicate the area where the hole needs to be cut.
Be aware that if the cat flap is too low, it will be difficult for your cat to get in and out of the house, and if it's too high, they could struggle to see what is going on outside. It is best to try to make it as close to your cat's belly height as you can, to provide them with the maximum comfort and security.
Also, you should be careful not to put a cat flap in too close to the frame of a wall that is solid as it could cause issues with draughts, damp and stability. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you're not familiar with masonry.
Then then, open the door and then encourage your cat or kitten to go through it by pointing them to where they need to go (it is helpful if someone else is in the room to encourage them). Once they've done it then you can begin letting them in and out as they want.
It is not advisable to push your cat or kitten through the flap too fast because this can cause them to be scared. The clunk, snap, and squeak of the door closing could cause injury to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if their tail gets trapped in the flap. Cats also are known to return home to check for intruders so having the door open at this time could pose a risk as it can lead to your pet being attacked by another cat they know. This is why it's best to install a small cat flap only and only when your cat or kitten is aware of using it.
Installation
Once the cat flap is installed, it is important to show your cat how to use it. It may take some time, but with patience, and a few treats for encouragement, your cat will eventually learn to use it. Install a lock to your cat flap if you need extra security, especially in the event of bad weather or you're away from home.
Choose the location where you'd like to put the cat flap on your door. It should be placed in a place that opens up into an area of protection in your garden. This will make your cat feel secure as they enter and exit the house and can also stop other animals from entering your home.
It is also important to take into consideration the height of the cat flap. This should be in accordance with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they are able to traverse through. You can also put steps either side of the entrance to help your cat get through.
Once you've decided where you want to place the cat flap, you can measure the door with a pencil and mark the area. This will provide you with an idea of the best place to cut. You will then need to cut a square in the door using an jigsaw. Wear safety goggles, and a dust mask, to ensure your health from dust inhalation. Once the square is cut, it is necessary to sand the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
After you've finished sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The flap must be placed so that the lock, if there's one, is on the side of your door. If there are screw holes for the cat flap on the door, you should then drill them into place. Then you can carefully place the flap into the hole. Make sure that it fits snugly.