How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap before it's installed so they can become familiar with the size and shape. Unlock the flap and let your cat 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 opening for the cat flap - the distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap inside your home can be beneficial to the well-being and health of your pet. It will allow your pet to move from the inside to the outside without you needing to allow them in or out. It will also stop them from fighting over cat food, litter boxes, or the door of the home.
Make sure you have the space where you'll be installing your cat flap prior to begin. It will be much easier to work with if you eliminate any obstacles. It is also important to remove any furniture or decorations that might get in the way of your work.
In preparing the area, you will need to measure and mark out where you intend to put the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake which could cause damage to your wall or door. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to put the flap somewhere that is easily accessible for your pets, but doesn't harm the structural integrity of your home.
A good location to place the cat flap is an entrance that leads to a closed space, like your closet or laundry room. This will prevent your cat from tripping over it and you can protect your cat from dangers. Also, make sure that the flap for cats is low enough to be used by your smallest cat, as taller cats will struggle leaping through a flap that is higher.
If you have a sliding patio door or an old style sash window, it might be an ideal idea to employ an expert handyman for the task. It can be a challenge to install the cat flap on these windows and doors, and mistakes could lead to costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the structure of the window or door's strength.
To mark the space for the cat flap you will need to use an ruler or tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will enable you to precisely cut the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level after you've drawn the line to ensure it's horizontal. After that, read the instructions included with the cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach it to your door in a way that the bottom edge of the template aligns with the horizontal line you have drawn and is aligned with the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, sometimes referred to as pet door is a small opening in the bottom of your external doors or windows that allows pets to leave and enter the home. You can choose from a variety of sizes and materials to find the right one for your pet.
It's important that you take measurements of your windows or doors before you buy a new cat flap. This way, you can ensure that the hole is going 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 then try to walk through 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 to the lowest part of their belly. This will ensure the flap is set at a height where your cats are at ease. If it is too low, they might struggle to pass through. If it is too high, they may not be in a position to use the flap.
In general, you should strive to create your holes at an angle of 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most secure and stable installation of your cat flap. If your cat flap kit did not include a spirit-level, a straight edge could be used in place.
It is recommended to have a professional glazier install the cat flap on a UPVC or glass window or door. This is because these kinds of doors are usually made of toughened glass and drilling into them may compromise the strength of the glass and could lead to it shattering in the future which could pose a security risk for your home.
It can be a challenge to install a cat flap on a brick wall, as drilling into a soft section of the wall can cause issues for pipes and cables that run through the property. This can lead expensive repairs or leaks, or even weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
Mark the hole you'll need it after you have measured your cat's measurements. Use your spirit level to make sure it runs flush with the door, and then mark the centre point. If your template for the cat flap kit does not include the centreline, you can photocopy it. Then, you can use the pencil to trace around the template to mark the location where the hole will be cut.
Remember, if your cat's flap is too low, it will make it difficult for your cat to go in and out of your house, and if the flap is too high, they may be unable to see what's going on outside. It is recommended to make it close to your cat's belly height as possible to allow them the maximum comfort and security.
It is crucial to not place a cat flap too close to a solid wall frame. This could result in problems with draughts and damp. If you're not familiar in masonry work it may be worthwhile to seek out professional assistance.
Next you should prop the door open and encourage your cat or kitten to come through it by showing them where to go (it helps if someone's in the room to encourage them). Once they've walked through the door, you can slowly start to allow them to enter and exit at will.
It is important not to allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap too quickly as this can lead to them becoming scared. The clunk and snap squeak of the door closing can cause injuries to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if their tail gets trapped in the flap. Cats also return home to check for intruders, so leaving the door open is dangerous. Your pet could be attacked by a cat they are familiar with. Installing a small cat door is best when your cat or kitten knows how to use it.
Installation
Once the flap is set, it is important to teach your cat how to use it. This will take time however, with patience and a few treats to entice them to do it, they will eventually get grasp of it. Install a lock to your cat flap if you need additional security, especially in bad weather or when you're away from home.
The first thing to determine the location you'd like to put the cat flap inside your door. It must be placed in a spot that can open up to an area that is sheltered from the garden. This will make your cat feel more secure when they come into and out of your home, and will also help prevent other animals from accessing your home.
Also, you should be aware of the height of your cat flap. It should be in line to your cat's measurement of stomach to ensure that they are able to move through. You could also think about placing steps either side of the door to assist your cat navigate it with ease.
Once cat flap fitting 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 help you determine the location to cut. You will then need to cut a square into the door with a Jigsaw. It is recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask when doing this, since inhaling the dust could be hazardous to your health. After cutting the square, it is necessary to sand the edges of the door to smooth the edges.
Once you've finished sanding, now replace the cat flap on your door. The cat flap should be put in a position where the lock, if there is one, is on the side of your door. Drill the screw holes should there be any on the door. Then, carefully place the cat flap into the hole, making sure it is snugly in place.