How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap before it's installed so they can get used to the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Ensure the cut-out is even 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
A cat flap in your home is beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet. This is because it will allow them to move freely between the indoors and outdoors without you having to allow them to enter or exit. It can also prevent them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the door to the home.
The first thing that you will need to do prior to beginning your cat flap install is prepare the area in which it will be installed. This is because eliminating any obstacles from the area will help you to work. You will also want to remove any furniture or decorations that could get in the way of your installation.
You'll need to mark and measure the space where you'll be installing the cat flap. This will allow you to avoid making a mistake that could ruin your door or wall. It is best to put the cat flap somewhere that is easy for your pets, but doesn't harm the integrity of your home's structure.
The cat flap can be put in a door that leads to a space that is closed such as your laundry room or closet. This will stop the cat from attempting to jump over it and will allow you to keep the 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 jump through a flap that is higher.
If you have sliding patio doors or an old-fashioned sash window, it might be an ideal idea to hire an expert handyman for the task. Installing a cat flap in these windows and doors isn't easy and mistakes can lead to expensive damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the structure of the window or door's strength.
To determine the space 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 flap. Once you've marked the line with a spirit-level, use it to ensure it is perfectly horizontal. Follow the directions that came 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 aligned with the center point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also referred to as a dog door is a small opening located at the bottom of exterior doors or windows. It allows pets to enter and exit the home. You can choose from a range of sizes and materials to find the perfect one for your pet and you.
It's important that you take measurements of your windows or doors before you buy the new cat flap. This way, you can be sure that the hole to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. You can use this method to determine the width of the opening by securing off a section of it and walking through it with your pet.
It is also advisable to measure 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 level that your cats are comfortable with. If it's too low they might struggle to pass through and if it's high they may be unable to use the flap in any way.
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. The best option is to use a spirit-level to aid you in this but if the instructions that came with your cat flap kit don't include this feature, straight edges will work just as well.
When you are installing the cat flap into a glass or UPVC window or door, it's best to hire an expert glazier to do this for you. These doors are usually toughened, and drilling can weaken their integrity and lead to them shattering. This could create a security threat for your home.
Putting a cat flap into the brick wall could be problematic too, as if you drill into a soft area of the wall, it could create problems for cables and pipes that run through the property. This could lead to costly repairs or leaks, or even weather damage from outside.
Marking
Mark the hole where you need it after you have measured your cat's measurements. Mark the center of the flap with your spirit level. If the template for the cat flap doesn't include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and draw around it with pencil to mark the area where the hole must be cut.
Remember, if the cat flap is too low, it could make it difficult for your cat to get into and out of the house, and if it's too high, they may struggle to see what is going on outside. It is best to make it as close to the height of your cat's belly as you can to give them the most comfort and security.
It is essential to avoid placing a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This could result in problems with draughts and damp. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you're not familiar with masonry.
Then then, open the door and encourage your cat kitten to come through it by pointing out where they should go (it helps if someone's on the inside to help them). Once they've made it through then you can begin letting them in and out as they would like.
It is important not to allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap too fast as this could lead to them getting scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing can cause harm to your kitten or cat. They will be even more scared if the tail gets trapped in the flap. Cats also tend to return home to check on any intrusions, so having the door open can also be a concern since it could lead to your pet being attacked by a cat that they know. This is why it's best to put up a small cat flap and only when your cat or kitten is aware of using it.
Installation
It is important to show your cat how to use the flap once it's been installed. It will take some time however, with patience and some treats to encourage them to learn, they will eventually get habit of it. It is also possible to put a lock in the flap for extra security, especially in harsh weather conditions or when away from home.
Decide where you want to put the cat flap on your door. This will need to be placed in a spot that can open up to a sheltered area of your garden. This will help your cat feel secure as they leave and enter the house and can keep other animals from entering your home.
You should also take into consideration the height of the cat flap. This should be in accordance with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they can traverse through. It is also possible to put steps on either side of the door to help your cat navigate it more easily.
Once you've determined where you want to put the flap Measure the door and mark it with the pencil. This will give you an idea of where to cut. The next step is to cut a square into the door using a Jigsaw. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask to protect your health from inhaling dust. After the square has been cut and sanded, you can sand the edges of the door. This will give an even edge.
Once you've completed sanding, you can now replace the cat flap inside your door. You should put the cat flap such that the lock (if there is one) is placed on the inside of the door. If there are cat flaps for french doors for the cat flap on the door, you should then drill them into place. You should then carefully place the flap in the hole, making sure it fits snuggly.