How to Install a Cat Flap
Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation to allow them to be familiar with the size and shape. Open the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle. Make sure the cut-out is level and square. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the opening for the cat flap – the distance between the edges must be the same. Preparation A cat flap in your home can be beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. This is because it lets them to move freely between indoors and out without needing to let them in or out. It can also stop them fighting over the litter box and cat food, or even the door to the house. The first thing you will need to do before starting the installation of your cat flap is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be placed. This is because removing obstructions from the area will help you to work. It is also important to remove any furniture or decorations that might hinder your installation. When preparing the area you must measure and mark out where you plan on installing the cat flap. This will help you avoid making a mistake that could damage the door or wall. It is best to place the cat flap somewhere that is easily accessible for your pets, but doesn't affect the integrity of your home's structure. A good place to put the cat flap is inside a door that leads to an enclosed space, such as your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from being able to jump over it and allows you to keep your cats safe from any possible dangers. The flap should be low enough for the smallest cat to use, since taller cats may struggle to leap through the flap. If you have a sliding patio door or an old-fashioned windows with sash, it might be an ideal idea to hire a professional handyman for the job. It can be difficult to install an animal flap on these doors and windows, and mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional will be able to install the cat flap in a safe manner without damaging the structural strength of the door or window. To mark out the area for the cat flap, you will need to use a ruler or a tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will enable you to accurately cut out the opening for the cat flap. Once you have the line drawn, use a spirit level to ensure that it is completely horizontal. Next, check the instructions that came with your cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach the template to the door so that the bottom edge coincides with the horizontal lines you've drawn. The template should be aligned in the center of the door. Measurement A cat flap, also known as pet doors is a small opening at the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that allows a pet to leave and enter the house. They are available in different sizes and materials, so you can pick the ideal one for your home and pets. Before purchasing a cat flap it's important to accurately measure the dimensions of your windows or doors where you intend to install it. It is then possible to be certain that the cat flap you purchase will fit and the hole is the right size. One method is to block off a part of the door and try to walk through with your pet. This will give you a precise idea of the opening size (width). It's also recommended to determine the height of your cat from the ground to the bottom of their stomach. This will ensure the flap is set at a height where your cats feel comfortable. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through. If it is too high, they may not be capable of using the flap. In general, you should try to drill your holes at an angle of 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will provide the most stable and secure fixings for your cat flap install. The best option is to use a spirit-level to assist you with this, but if the directions included with your kit for installing a cat flap don't have this then a straight edge will do just as well. It's best to hire a professional glazier install the cat flap in a UPVC or glass window or door. The doors are usually made tougher and drilling could weaken their integrity and result in them breaking. This could create the risk of security for your home. It can also be difficult to install a cat flap inside a brick wall, as drilling into a soft part of the wall could cause issues for pipes and cables running through the property. This can lead expensive repairs and leaks, as well as weather damage caused by outside. Marking After you've measured your cat or kitten to find the right size flap for them It's time to mark where the hole needs to go. Mark the centre of the flap using a spirit level. If the template you've chosen for your cat flap kit doesn't include the centre line, copy it and trace around it using pencil to mark the location where the hole must be cut. If the cat flap is set too low, your cat could have difficulty getting into and out. Likewise, when you set it too high, the cat may not be able to observe what's happening outside. It is best to make it close to your cat's belly as possible to allow them the maximum comfort and security. Also, you should be aware not to put the cat flap too close to the frame of a solid wall as it could cause issues with damp, draughts and stability. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance when you're not experienced with the masonry. Then you need to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if someone is inside, helping them). Once they've made it through then you can begin letting them go in and out as you please. It is not advisable to push your kitten or cat through the flap too quickly because it could cause them to become scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk or snap when the flap closes, and be even more terrified if their tail gets caught in it as they try to exit. Cats also have a habit of returning home to look for invaders, so leaving the door open can also be a concern since it could lead to your pet being attacked by another cat they are familiar with. cat flap fitters is the reason it's best to put up a small cat flap only and only when your cat or kitten knows to use it. Installation Once the cat flap is set It is essential to show your cat how to use it. It will take a while but with patience and a few treats for motivation your cat will eventually learn how to utilize it. Install a lock to the cat flap if you want extra security, particularly during bad weather or when you're away from home. Decide where you want to place the cat flap on your door. It must be placed in a spot that can open up to an area that is protected from the elements of your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure as they come in and out of the house, and also keep other animals out of your home. Another factor to consider is the height that you want to put the flap for your cat at. This should be in the same area as your cat's belly measurement, to ensure that they can get through easily. You can also place steps on either side of the entrance to assist your cat to get through. After you have chosen the location you would like to put the flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with the pencil. This will provide you with a guide for where to cut. Then, you will need to cut out an area on the door using an jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask while doing this, as inhaling dust can be dangerous to your health. After the square is cut and trimmed, you must smooth the edges of the door to smooth the edges. Once you have finished sanding, now replace the cat flap inside your door. The flap must be put in a position where the lock, if there is one, is located on the inside of the door. If there are holes for screws for the cat flap on the door, you should now drill these into place. Then, carefully insert the cat flap in the hole. Make sure it fits perfectly.