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. Unlock the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.

Make sure the cutout is even and square. Mark the screw holes and align them with the cat flap opening. The distance between the edges should be equal.

Preparation

Having a cat flap installed in your home can be beneficial for the health and wellbeing of your pet. It allows your pet to move from the inside to the outside without having let them in or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over the cat food and litter box or even the entrance to the house.

The first thing that you will need to do before starting your cat flap install is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be located. It will be easier to work in the event that you remove any obstructions. It is also important to take away any furniture or decorations that may interfere with the installation.

You'll be required to mark and measure the space in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will help you to avoid making a mistake that could ruin your composite door cat flap or wall. Ideally, you will want to put the cat flap somewhere that is easily accessible to your cats but that won't affect the integrity of your home's structure.

The best spot to put the cat flap is in a door that leads to an enclosed space, such as your closet or laundry room. This will stop your cat from attempting to jump over it and will allow you to keep your cats safe from any possible dangers. Also, make sure that the flap for your cat is low enough to be used by the smaller cat, as taller cats will struggle leaping through a higher-height flap.

If you have a sliding patio door or an old-fashioned sash window, it could be best to employ an experienced handyman to do the task. It isn't easy to install an animal flap on these windows and doors, and mistakes could lead to costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap with out damaging the structure of the window or door's integrity.

To mark the space to place the cat flap, you will need to use a ruler or tape measure to determine the height of your cat's belly from the floor. This will enable you to cut precisely the opening for the flap. Once you have the line marked using a spirit level, you can use it to ensure it is horizontal. Then, go through the directions included in your cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach it to the door in a way that the bottom edge of the template coincides with the horizontal line you have drawn and is aligned with the center point of the door.

Measurement

A cat flap, also known as a pet door is a small hole in the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that allow a pet to go inside and out of the house. You can pick from a variety sizes and materials to find the right one for you and your pets.

Before you buy a cat flap it's important to accurately measure the dimensions of your windows or doors in which you're planning to put it. You can then be sure that the cat flap you purchase will fit and that the hole will be the right size. One method is to block off a part of the door, and then try to walk through it with your pet. This will give you an exact idea of the passage opening size (width).

It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the ground to the lowest part of their belly. This will ensure that the flap is placed at a height where your cats are at ease. If it's too low, they could struggle to pass through. If it is too high, they might not be able to use the flap.

Generally you should aim to drill 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 install, their explanation,. It is recommended to use a spirit-level to help you with this, however if the instructions included with your cat flap kit don't have this then straight edges will work the same job.

It's best to hire a professional glazier put in the cat flap on an upvc door panel with cat flap or glass door or window. The doors are usually made tougher and drilling could cause damage to their structure and lead to them shattering. This could be the risk of security for your home.

Putting a cat flap into the brick wall could be a problem, too, since drilling into a soft section of the wall this can create problems for pipes and cables that go through the property. This could result in costly repairs or even leaks and weather damage from the outside.

Marking

Mark the hole where you need it after measuring your cat's size. Mark the center of the flap using your spirit level. If your template for the cat flap kit does not include the centreline, you can photocopy it. Then use the pencil to trace around the template to indicate the area where the hole needs to be cut.

Remember, if the cat flap is too low, it could be difficult for your cat to go in and out of your house, and if it's too high, they could be unable to see what's going on outside. It is recommended to make it close to the height of your cat's belly as you can, to provide them with the greatest comfort and security.

You also want to be careful not to put a cat flap too close to the frame of a solid wall, as it can lead to problems with damp, draughts and stability. If you're unfamiliar in masonry work it may be beneficial to seek professional assistance.

Next you need to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is nearby encouraging them). Once they've walked through it then you can gradually begin to allow them to enter and exit at will.

You should not push your kitten or cat through the flap too quickly because it could cause them to become scared. They can easily become injured by the clunk or snap when it closes, and even more scared if their tail is stuck in the flap as they try to exit. Cats also are known to return home to check for intrusions, so having the door open could be a problem because it could result in your pet being attacked by a cat that they know. This is why it's recommended to put up a small cat flap and only if your cat is aware of its use.

Installation

Once the cat flap is installed, it is important to show your cat how to use it. It will take fitting a cat flap while, but with patience, and a few treats for encouragement, your cat will eventually learn how to use it. Install a lock on the cat flap if your pet needs additional security, especially in bad weather or when you're away from home.

Decide where you'd like to place the cat flap on your back door with cat flap fitted. It should be located in a place that opens onto an area that is sheltered from the garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure when they move into and out of your house, and also prevent other animals from accessing your home.

It is also important to be aware of the height of your flap. This should be in the same space as the measurement of your cat's belly as this will ensure that they can get through with ease. You can also place steps on either side of the entrance to help your cat get through.

After you have decided where you would like to put the flap, measure the door and mark it with the pencil. This will allow you to determine where you need to cut. The next step is to cut a square out of the door using the Jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask when doing this, since breathing in dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut and sanded, you can sand the edges of the door. This will give a smooth edge.

After you've finished sanding, now replace the cat flap in your door. The cat flap inside such that the lock (if there is one) is on the inside of the door. If there are holes for screws for the cat flap on the door, you must now drill them into the hole. Then carefully insert the cat flap in the hole. Make sure it fits perfectly.