How To Install A Cat Flap
Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's set up so they can become familiar with the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let them explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cut-out is level and ensure that the cut-out is square and even. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the cat flap opening The distance between the edges must be the same.
Preparation
Having a cat flap installed in your home is beneficial for the health and Cat Flap Install well-being of your pet. It will allow your pet to move from inside to the outside without you having let them in or leave. It also stops them from fighting over cat food and litter box or even the entrance to the house itself.
The first thing that you'll need to do prior to starting your cat flap fitting flap install [www.Longisland.com] is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be placed. It will be easier to work in the event that you remove any obstacles. Also, you should take out any furniture or decorations that could get in the way of your installation.
When preparing the area you must take measurements and mark the location where you are planning to install the cat flap glass door installation near me flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake that could cause damage to your door or wall. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to put the flap in a place that is easily accessible to your pets, but doesn't affect the strength of the structure of your home.
A great location to place the cat flap is in the doorway leading to an enclosed space like your laundry room or closet. This will prevent the cat from attempting to jump over it and allows you to keep the cats safe from any possible dangers. The flap for cats should be low enough for your cat's smallest to use, as taller cats may struggle to climb over a flap that is higher.
If you have an open patio door that slides or an old style sash window, it could be an ideal idea to employ an expert handyman for the job. It can be difficult to install the cat flap on these windows and doors and any mistakes could lead to costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the door or window's structural strength.
You'll need to determine the height of your cat's belly from the ground to mark the area for the flap. This will enable you to accurately cut out the opening for the cat flap. Once you've marked the line with a spirit-level, use it to ensure it is horizontal. Review the instructions included with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach it to the door in a way that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line that 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 get in and out of the house. You can pick from a range of sizes and materials to find the best one for you and your pets.
It is important to take measurements of your doors or windows prior to purchasing the new cat flap. This way, you can be sure that the hole will to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. An effective method is to block off a section 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 advisable to measure the height of your feline from the floor to the lowest part on their belly. This will ensure the flap is installed in an area where your cats are at ease. If it is too low, they could struggle to get through. If it's too high, they may not be capable of using the flap.
In general, you should strive 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. If your cat flap kit didn't come with a spirit level, a straight edge could be used in place.
It's best to employ a professional glazier install the cat flap on a upvc door panel replacement cat flap or glass door or window. The doors are usually made tougher, and drilling can weaken their integrity and lead to them shattering. This could create a security threat for your home.
It can be a challenge to install a cat flap on brick walls, as drilling into a soft section of the wall can create problems for cables and pipes running through the property. This could lead to costly repairs, or even leaks or weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
Mark the hole in which you require it after measuring your cat. Make use of your spirit level to ensure that it's in line with the door, and then mark the centre point. If the template you've chosen for your cat flap kit does not include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and trace around it with a pencil to mark the area where the hole needs to be cut.
If the flap for your cat is placed too low, your cat could struggle to get into and out. Likewise, should you put it too high, your cat may not be able to see what's happening outside. To ensure your cat feels safe and comfortable it is best to put the flap as close as possible to their stomach.
It is also important to be careful not to put a cat flap too close to the frame of a solid wall as it could cause issues with damp, draughts and stability. If you're not experienced with masonry work, it might be worth seeking professional help.
Next then, open the door and encourage your cat or kitten to come through it by pointing out where they should go (it helps if there's someone on the inside to help them). Once they've walked through the door then you can gradually begin to let them in and out at will.
It's important that you don't allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap in a hurry because this could result in them becoming scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk and snap as it closes, and even more scared if their tail is caught in it as they attempt to leave. Cats also have a habit of returning home to check for intrusions, so having the door open could be a problem because it could result in your pet being attacked by another cat they are familiar with. This is the reason it's best to put up an uninspiring cat flap and only when your cat or kitten is aware of its use.
Installation
Once the flap is set, it is important to teach your cat to use it. This will take time however, with patience and some treats to encourage them, they will eventually get the habit of it. You may also want to install a lock on the flap to provide security, especially during adverse weather conditions or when you're away from the house.
The first thing you should determine the location you'd like to put the cat flap in your door. It should be in a location that opens out into a sheltered area of your garden. This will make your cat feel more secure as they move into and out of the house, and also keep other animals out of your home.
You should also be aware of the height of your flap. This should be in the same area as your cat's belly measurement, to ensure that they can get through easily. You can also put steps on either side of the entrance to assist your cat get through.
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 location. This will help you decide the best place you will need to cut. Then, you will need to cut an area on the door with an jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety goggles and a mask for dust protection while doing this, as inhaling the dust can be dangerous to your health. After the square is cut and sanded, you can sand the edges of the door. This will create an even edge.
When you are done sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The flap must be installed so that the lock, if it has one, is located on the side of your door. Make the screw holes, should there be any on the door. Then you can carefully place the flap into the hole. Make sure it fits snugly.