How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they can become familiar with the dimensions and shape. Open the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure that the cut-out is even and square. Mark the screw holes on the door and align them with the opening of the cat flap - the distance between the edges should be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap inside your home can be beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. This is because it allows the pet to move freely between the indoors and outdoors without needing to allow them to enter or exit. It will also stop them from fighting over the cat food and litter box or even the door to the house.
Prepare the area where you plan to install your cat flap prior to begin. This is because removing any obstructions from the area will help you to work. Also, you should remove any furniture or decorations that could hinder your work.
When you are preparing the space you must measure and mark out where you are planning to install the cat flap. This will help you to avoid making a mistake that could ruin your wall or door. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to place the cat flap in a place that is easy for your cat, yet doesn't compromise the integrity of your home's structure.
A great location to place the cat flap is inside the doorway leading to a closed space, like your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from attempting to jump over it, and allow you to keep your cats safe from any possible dangers. The flap should be low enough for your cat's smallest to use, since larger cats might struggle to leap through the flap.
It is a good idea to employ a professional handyman if you have sliding doors or windows with sash that are old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap on these doors and windows isn't easy and mistakes could lead to expensive damage. A professional will be able to put in the cat flap safely and without compromising the structural strength of the door or window.
You'll need to determine the height of your cat's belly from the ground in order to mark the flap's location. 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 ensure that it is horizontal. Review the instructions included with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach it to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line that you've drawn and is centered on the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, sometimes referred to as pet doors is a small hole in the bottom of your external doors or windows that allows a pet to go inside and out of the house. You can choose from a variety sizes and materials to find the perfect one for you and your pets.
Before cat flap cost 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. You will then be able to ensure that the cat flap you purchase will fit and that the hole will be the right size. A good technique 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 opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the ground up to the bottom of their belly. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a level that your cats are comfortable with. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through, and if it's too high, they may not be able to use the flap at all.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at a 45 degree angle to the vertical surface. This will result in the most stable and secure fixings for your cat flap installation. If your cat flap kit didn't include a spirit-level, a straight edge can be used in place.
It is recommended to employ an experienced glazier install the cat flap on a UPVC or glass window or door. This is because these kinds of doors are usually toughened and drilling into them can compromise the strength of the glass and could lead to it shattering in the future, which could be a security risk for your home.
Putting a cat flap into a brick wall can be problematic, too, because when you drill into a soft area of the wall, this could cause issues with pipes and cables that go through the property. This could lead to costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage caused by the outside.
Marking
Mark the hole where you need it after measuring your cat's size. Utilizing your spirit level to ensure it is flush with the door, and then mark the center point. If the template you've chosen for your cat flap kit doesn't include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and trace around it using pencil to mark the location where the hole will need to be cut.
If the flap for your cat is set too low, your cat could have difficulty getting in and out, and when you set it too high, your cat might not be able to see what's going on outside. It is best to make it as close to your cat's belly as you can, to provide them with the greatest comfort and security.
It is essential to not place a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This could cause issues with draughts and damp. It's worth getting professional help if you aren't familiar with masonry.
Next step is to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if someone is inside, encouraging them). Once they've made their way through it, you can slowly start to let them in and out at will.
It's important that you don't force your cat or kitten through the flap too fast as this could lead to them getting scared. The clunk, snap, and squeak of the door closing can cause injuries to your kitten or cat. They will be even more terrified if their tail is stuck in the flap. Cats also have a habit of returning home to look for invaders, so leaving the door open during this time could pose a risk because it could result in your pet being attacked by a 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 its use.
Installation
Once the flap is set, it is important 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 to use it. Install a lock to your cat flap if you want 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 into an area that is protected from the elements of your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure when they move into and out of your house, and also to keep other animals from entering your home.
You should also be aware of the height of your flap for your cat. It should be in the same area as the measurement of your cat's belly, as this will ensure that they can get through the door easily. It is also possible to put steps on either side of the door to help your cat navigate it with ease.
After you have determined where you want to put the cat flap, measure the door and mark it with a pencil. This will help you decide the best place you will need to cut. The next step is to cut a square in the door with a Jigsaw. Wear safety goggles, and a dust mask to ensure your health from dust inhalation. Once the square is cut into pieces, it is essential to smooth the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
After you've completed sanding, you can now replace the cat flap in your door. You should put the cat flap such that the lock (if there is one) is placed on the inside of the door. Make the screw holes, should there be any on the door. Then carefully insert cat flap in bifold doors in the hole. Make sure it fits snugly.