How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap before it's put in place so that they be familiar with the size and shape. Open the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure that the cutout is square and even. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the opening of the cat flap The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap in your home is beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. It will allow your pet to freely move from the inside to the outside, without needing to allow them to enter or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the entrance to the house.
Set up the area where you'll be installing your cat flap prior to when you begin. It will be simpler to work with if you eliminate any obstacles. It is also important to take out any furniture or decorations that could hinder your work.
When you are preparing the space it is important to determine the exact location and measurement you plan on installing the cat flap. This will allow you avoid making a mistake that could ruin the wall or door. Ideally, you will want to place the cat flap somewhere that is easily accessible for your cat, yet doesn't compromise the strength of the structure of your home.
The cat flap can be put in a door leading to a closed space, like your laundry room or closet. This will stop the cat from jumping over it, and also protect your pets from potential dangers. The flap should be low enough for the smallest cat to access, as taller cats may struggle to climb over a flap that is higher.
If you have a sliding patio door or an old style sash window, it could be a good idea to employ an experienced handyman to do the job. It can be a challenge to install an animal flap on these windows and doors, and mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the structural strength.
To mark the space to place the cat flap, you will need to use an ruler or tape measure to determine the height of your cat's belly from the floor. This will allow you to cut precisely 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. Follow the directions that came with the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach the template to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is 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 exterior doors or windows. It allows pets to leave and enter the home. You can pick from a range of sizes and materials to find the right 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. It is then possible to be certain that your cat flap will fit and the hole will be 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 is also recommended 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 struggle to pass through, and if it's too 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 secure and stable fixings for your cat flap installation. It is recommended to use a spirit-level to aid you in this but if the instructions included with your kit for installing a cat flap do not include this, a straight edge will do just as well.
It's best to have a professional glazier put in the cat flap in a UPVC or glass door or window. This is because these types of doors are typically 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 hazard for your home.
Putting a cat flap into brick walls can be problematic too, as if you drill into a soft section of the wall, this could create problems for pipes and cables that go through the property. This can result in costly repairs, or even leaks or weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them then you need to mark where the hole needs to go. Use your spirit level to ensure it runs flush with the door, then mark the center point. If the template you've chosen for your cat flap kit doesn't include a centre line, photocopy it and trace around it using pencil to mark the location where the hole will need to be cut.
Remember, if your cat's flap is too low, it could make it difficult for your cat to climb in and out of the house, and if the flap is too high, they could be unable to see what's going on outside. To ensure your cat feels at ease and secure, it is best to position the flap as close as possible to their stomach.
You also want to be aware not to put a cat flap in too close to the frame of a wall that is solid as it could cause problems with damp, draughts and stability. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you're not familiar with masonry.
Then, prop the door open and then encourage your cat or kitten to go through it by pointing them to where they need to go (it helps if there's someone in the room to encourage them). Once they've passed you can let them in and out as they would like.
It's crucial to not push your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly because this could result in them being scared. They can easily become injured by the clunk and snap when it closes, and be even more terrified if their tail gets caught in it when they try to exit. Cats also have a habit of returning home to check for invaders, so leaving the door open during this time could pose a risk as it can lead to your pet being attacked by another cat they know. This is why it's best to put up a small cat flap only and only if your cat knows to use it.
Installation
It is crucial to teach your cat how to use the flap once it is installed. It may take some time, but with patience and some treats to encourage them, they will eventually get hang of it. Install a lock on the cat flap if you want additional security, especially in the event of bad weather or you're away from home.
The first thing you should do is decide where you want to put the cat flap inside your door. cat flaps should be placed in a place that can open up to an area of protection in your garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure as they come in and out of the home, and will also help keep other animals out of your home.
You should also be aware of the height of your flap for your cat. It should be in line with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they are able to pass through. You can also place steps either side of the entrance to assist your cat to get through.
Once 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 help you decide the location you will need to cut. The next step is to cut a square in the door with a jigsaw. It is recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust mask while doing this, as inhaling dust could be harmful to your health. After the square has been cut, sand the edges of the door. This will create a smooth edge.
After you've finished sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The flap must be put in a position where the lock, if there's one, is located on the inside of the door. If there are holes for screws for the cat flap on the door, you must now drill them into the hole. Then you can carefully place the flap into the hole. Make sure it fits snugly.