How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's put in place so that they get used to the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Ensure the cut-out is even and ensure that the cut-out 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 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 having allow them to enter or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over the cat food and litter box or even the entrance to the house itself.
Make sure you have the space in which you'll install your cat flap before you begin. This is because eliminating any obstacles from the area will help you to work. It is also important to take out any furniture or decorations that could hinder the installation.
In preparing the area, you will need to take measurements and mark the location where you plan on installing the cat flap. This will stop you from making a mistake that could damage your door or wall. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to put the cat flap in a place that is easily accessible to your pets, but doesn't harm the strength of the structure of your home.
The cat flap can be set on the doorway leading to a locked space, like your laundry room or closet. This will stop your cat from soaring over it and also protect your cat from potential dangers. Also, make sure that the flap for cats is not too low to be used by your smallest cat, as larger cats may struggle to leap through a flap that is higher.
It is a good option to employ an experienced handyman if you have sliding doors or a window with a sash that is old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap on these doors and windows isn't easy and mistakes can result in costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the door or window's structural integrity.
You will need to measure 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 have the line marked, use a spirit level to make sure it is completely horizontal. Check the instructions that came with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach it to your door in a way that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line you've drawn and is aligned with the centre of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as pet door is a small opening at the bottom of your external doors or windows that allows pets to leave and enter the home. You can choose from a range of sizes and materials to find the best one for you and your pets.
Before you purchase a cat flap it's important to measure precisely the size of your windows or doors in which you're planning to put it. This way you can be sure that the hole to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. You can use this technique to determine the width of the opening by cutting off a section of it and walking through it with your pet.
It is also advisable to take the height of your feline from the floor to the lowest part on their belly. This will ensure the flap is placed at a height where your cats feel at ease. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through and if it's high they may be unable to use the flap in any way.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will result in the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap install. Ideally you should use a spirit level to assist you with this, however if the instructions that came with your kit for installing a cat flap do not include this, straight edges will work the same job.
It is recommended to have an experienced glazier install the cat flap on a UPVC or glass door or window. This is due to the fact that these types of doors are usually made of toughened glass and drilling into them could compromise the strength of the glass and could lead to it shattering in the future which could pose a security hazard for your home.
It is also difficult to install a cat flap on a brick wall, as drilling into a soft area of the wall can create issues for pipes and cables running through the property. This could lead to costly repairs or leaks, or even weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
After you've measured your cat or kitten to find the right size flap then you need to mark where the hole should go. Mark the center of the flap with your spirit level. If the template you have for the cat flap kit doesn't include a centreline, you can photocopy it. Then use the pencil to trace around the template to mark the area where the hole needs to be cut.
If the cat flap is too low, your cat could be unable to get into and out. Likewise, when you set it too high, your cat might not be able to see what's going on outside. To ensure your cat feels safe and comfortable it is best to place the flap as close as you can to their stomach.
It is important to not place a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This could cause issues with draughts and damp. If you're not familiar in masonry work it may be worth seeking professional help.
Then then, open the door and encourage your cat or kitten to come through it by pointing out where they should go (it is helpful if someone else is on the inside to help them). Once they've passed you can let them in and out as they want.
It's crucial to not push your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly as this could lead to them becoming scared. The clunk, snap, and squeak of the door closing can cause injuries to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if their tail is caught in the flap. Cats also return home to look for intruders, and leaving the door open can be risky. Your pet could be attacked by another cat they know. Installing a cat door that is small is best if your kitten or cat is able to use it.
Installation
It is essential to show your cat how to use the cat flap after it is installed. It will take some time but with patience and a few treats as motivation your cat will eventually learn how to utilize 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 place the cat flap on your door. It will need to be put in a spot that opens up into an area of protection in your garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure when they move into and out of your house, and also to keep other animals from entering your home.
cat flap fitting to consider is the height that you want to put the flap on your cat. This should be in accordance with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they can move through. You can also consider placing steps either side of the door to help your cat get through it more easily.
Once you've decided where you'd like to place the cat flap then you can measure the door with an eraser and mark the location. This will provide you with an idea of the best place to cut. Then, you will need to cut a square on the door using a Jigsaw. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask, to ensure your health from inhaling dust. After cutting the square, it is necessary to sand around the edges of the door to smooth the edges.
After you have finished the sanding process, you can replace the cat flap. You should put the cat flap in such that the lock (if there is one) is positioned on the inside of the door. Make the screw holes, if there are any on the door. Then you can carefully place the cat flap in the hole. Make sure that it fits snugly.