How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to installation to allow them to become familiar with its 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 the door and align them with the opening of the cat flap - the distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
A cat flap in your home is beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. It allows your pet to freely move from inside to the outside without having allow them to enter or leave. It also stops them from fighting over the cat food and litter box or even the door to the house.
The first thing that you must do prior to beginning the installation of your cat flap is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be located. It will be easier to work if you remove any obstacles. You will also want to take away any furniture or other decorations that might hinder your installation.
You will be required to trace and measure the area where you intend to install the cat flap. This will help you avoid making a mistake that could ruin your wall or door. You should put the cat flap in a place that is accessible for your pets, but doesn't compromise your home's structural integrity.
A good location to place the cat flap is an entrance that leads to an enclosed space, like your closet or laundry room. This will stop your cat from tripping over it and will keep your cats away from potential dangers. Also, make sure that the flap for your cat is not too low to be used by the smallest cat, as taller cats may have difficulty leaping through a flap that is higher.
It could be a good idea to hire an expert handyman if you have sliding doors or a windows with sash that are old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap into these windows and doors isn't easy and mistakes could lead to expensive damage. A professional will be able to put in the cat flap with care and without compromising the structural integrity of the door or window.
You'll need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to determine the flap's location. This will enable you to accurately cut out the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level after you've drawn the line to make sure it is horizontal. Next, check the instructions that came with your cat flap kit to locate the template. Attach the template to the door so that the bottom edge coincides with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. The template should be centered at the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as a dog door, is a small opening at the bottom of doors or windows. It lets pets leave and enter the home. They come in various sizes and materials, so you can pick the right one for your house and pets.
Before you purchase a cat flap it's important to measure precisely the size of your windows or doors in which you plan to install it. This way you can be sure that the hole to be of the correct size and that the cat flap will fit. An effective method is to block off a section of the door and try to walk through it with your pet. This will give you an exact idea of the opening size (width).
It is also advisable to take the height of your feline from the floor to the lowest point on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is set at a height your cats are comfortable using. If it's too low, they might have difficulty getting through and if it's too high they may be unable to use the flap in any way.
Generally, you should drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will give the most stable and secure fixings for the installation of your cat flap. The best option is to use a spirit level to aid you in this, however if the instructions included with your kit for installing a cat flap don't have this then a straight edge will do equally well.
It is recommended to hire an experienced glazier install the cat flap in a UPVC or glass window or door. These doors are usually toughened, and drilling can weaken their integrity and result in them breaking. This could be an security risk to your home.
Installing a cat flap on a brick wall can be problematic, too, because drilling into a soft section of the wall, this could cause issues with cables and pipes that run through the property. This could result in costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage from outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the correct size flap for them, it's time to mark where the hole will be. Make use of your spirit level to ensure it is in line with the door, then mark the center point. If the template for your cat flap kit doesn't include a centre line, photocopy it and trace around it using pencil to mark the spot where the hole will need to be cut.
If the cat flap is too low, your cat could struggle to get in and out, and should you put it too high, the cat may not be able see what's going on outside. To ensure that your cat is safe and comfortable it is recommended to position the flap as close as you can to their stomach.
Also, you should be careful not to put the cat flap too close to the frame of a solid wall, as it can lead to problems with draughts, damp and stability. If you're not experienced in masonry work it may be worth seeking professional help.
Next, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is inside, to encourage them). Once they've passed, you can start letting them go in and out as you want.
It's crucial to not force your cat or kitten through the flap too fast as this could lead to them being scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk or snap when the flap closes, and be even more scared if their tail is stuck in the flap as they attempt to get out. Cats also have a habit of returning home to check for intrusions, so having the door open during this time can also be a concern since it could lead to your pet being attacked by another cat they are familiar with. Installing a cat door that is small is recommended if your kitten or cat knows how to use it.
Installation
Once the cat flap is set It is essential to show your cat how to use it. It will take some time but with patience and a few treats as an incentive your cat will eventually learn to utilize it. You may also want to install a lock on the flap to provide security, particularly during harsh weather conditions or when you are away from the house.
Decide where you'd like to put the cat flap on your door. It must be put in a spot that opens up into an area of protection in your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure when they move into and out of the house, and also to keep other animals from entering your home.
Another factor to consider is the height that you'd like to place the cat flap at. This should be in line with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they are able to move through. You could also think about placing steps on either side of the door to help your cat navigate it more easily.
After you have determined where you want to put the flap, measure the door and mark it with a pencil. This will help you decide the location to cut. The next step is to cut a square out of the door using a Jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask while working on this, as inhaling dust could be hazardous to your health. After cutting the square and trimmed, you must sand around the edges of the door to smooth the edges.
After recommended you read have finished sanding your door, it is time to can replace the cat flap. The flap must be installed so that the lock, if there's one, is on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes in the event that there are any on the door. You should then carefully place the cat flap into the hole, ensuring that it is snugly in place.