Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they can become familiar with its dimensions and shape. Unlock the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cutout is square and even. Mark the screw holes and align them with the cat flap opening. The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap in your home is beneficial for the well-being and health of your pet. It allows your pet to move from the inside to the outside, without needing to allow them in or out. It can also prevent them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the door to the home.
Set up the area where you'll be installing your cat flap before you begin. It will be simpler to work in the event that you remove any obstacles. You should also remove any furniture and other decorations that may interfere with your installation.
You'll have to trace and measure the area in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake which could ruin your door or wall. You will want to put the cat flap in a location that is accessible for your pets, but doesn't compromise your home's structural integrity.
A great spot to put the cat flap is an entrance that leads to an enclosed space, like your laundry room or closet. This will stop the cat from soaring over it and also protect your pets from dangers. The flap should be low enough for your smallest cat to use, as larger cats might struggle to climb over a flap that is higher.
If you have an open patio door that slides or an old-fashioned sash window, it could be a good idea to hire an expert handyman for the task. Installing a cat flap into these types of windows and doors can be a challenge and mistakes could result in costly damage. A professional will be able to put in the cat flap in a safe manner without compromising the structural integrity of the door or window.
To mark the space to place the cat flap, you'll need an ruler or tape measure to determine the height of your cat's belly from the floor. This will enable you to accurately cut the flap's opening. Use a spirit level after having marked the line to ensure it's horizontal. Next, check the instructions included with the cat flap kit to locate the template. Attach this to your door so that the bottom edge of the template aligns with the horizontal line you've drawn and is aligned with the centre of the door.
cat flap fitters , also referred to as a dog door, is a small opening at the bottom of doors or windows. It lets pets enter and exit the home. You can pick from a variety sizes and materials to find the best one for your pet.
It is important to measure your windows or doors prior to purchasing the new cat flap. You can then be sure that the cat flap you purchase will fit and the hole will be the correct size. You can use this method to determine the size of the opening by securing off a section and walking through it with your pet.
It's also recommended to determine the height of your cat from the ground up to the lowest point of their stomach. This will ensure that the flap is set at a height that your cat is comfortable with. If it is too low, they may struggle to get through. If it's too high, they may not be capable of using the flap.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at a 45 degree angle to the vertical surface. This will provide the most stable and secure fixings for your cat flap install. If the cat flap kit you purchased didn't include a spirit level, a straight edge could be used in place.
It is best to have a professional glazier install the cat flap on a UPVC or glass door or window. This is due to the fact that these types of doors are normally hardened, and drilling into them can weaken the integrity of the glass and possibly result in it breaking in the future which could be a security risk for your home.
Putting a cat flap into the brick wall could be problematic too, as drilling into a soft section of the wall, this could create problems for pipes and cables that go through the property. This could lead to costly repairs, or even leaks and weather damage from outside.
Marking
Mark the hole in which you require it after measuring your cat's measurements. Mark the centre of the flap using a spirit level. If your template for the cat flap kit doesn't include an outline of the centreline, photocopy it. Then, you can use the pencil to trace around the template to indicate the area where the hole needs to be cut.
If the cat flap is set too low, your cat may struggle to get into and out. Likewise, when you set it too high, your cat might not be able to see what's happening outside. It is best to make it close to your cat's belly as you can, to provide them with the maximum comfort and security.
It is crucial to keep a cat flap from being too close to a wall frame. This could cause issues with draughts and damp. If you're not experienced in masonry work it's worthwhile to seek out professional assistance.
Next you need to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is inside, encouraging them). Once they've made their way through it and are comfortable, you can slowly begin to allow them to enter and exit at will.
You should not push your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly because this can cause them to be scared. The clunk and snap squeak of the door closing can cause injury to your cat or kitten. They'll be more terrified if their tail gets stuck in the flap. Cats are also known to return home to look for intruders, and leaving the door open is risky. Your pet may be attacked by another cat they are familiar with. Installing a cat door that is small is best if your kitten or cat is able to use it.
Installation
Once the flap is installed It is crucial to teach your cat how to use it. It may take some time, but with patience, and a few treats for an incentive, your cat will eventually learn how to utilize it. It is also possible to put a lock on the flap for extra security, especially in harsh weather conditions or when away from home.
The first thing to decide the location you'd like to place the cat flap on your door. It should be placed in a place that opens up into an area of protection in your garden. This will help your cat feel secure as they enter and exit the house. It can also stop other animals from entering your home.
Another consideration is the height that you'd like to set the cat flap at. It should be in the same space as the measurement of your cat's belly, to ensure that they can pass 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 decided where you would like to place the cat flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with the pencil. This will help you decide the location to cut. Then, you'll need to cut an area on the door using the aid of a jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety glasses and a dust protection mask when doing this, since breathing in dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut, sand the edges of the door. This will give a smooth edge.
After you have finished the sanding process, you can replace the cat flap. You should put the cat flap inside such that the lock (if there is one) is placed on the inside of the door. Make the screw holes, if there are any on the door. Then, you should carefully insert the cat flap into the hole, making sure it fits snuggly.