Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's installed so they can become familiar with the size and shape. Prop the flap open and let them explore it from all angles.
Make sure the cutout is even and square. Mark the screw holes and align them with the cat flap opening. The distance between the edges must be the same.
Preparation
Having a cat flap installed in your home is beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet. cat flap fitting will allow your pet to freely move from inside to the outside without you needing to allow them to enter or leave. It also stops them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the entrance to the house.
The first thing that you will need to do prior to starting your cat flap install is prepare the area where it will be located. This is because removing any obstacles from the area will make it easier to work. It is also important to remove any furniture and other decorations that could hinder your installation.
You'll need to mark and measure the area where you intend to install the cat flap. This will stop you from making a mistake that could ruin the door or wall. It is best to put the cat flap in a place that is easy for your pets, but doesn't compromise the integrity of your home's structure.
The cat flap can be set on the doorway leading to a locked space like your laundry room or closet. This will stop your cat from attempting to jump over it, and allow you to keep your 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 leap through a flap that is higher.
If you have a sliding patio door or an old style sash window, it could be an ideal idea to employ an experienced handyman to do the job. Installing a cat flap in these windows and doors isn't easy and mistakes could cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the structure of the window or door's strength.
To determine the space for 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 precisely cut the flap's opening. Use a spirit level after having drawn the line to ensure it's horizontal. After that, read the instructions included in the cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach this to your door so that the bottom edge of the template coincides with the horizontal line that you've drawn and is aligned with the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap sometimes known as a pet door is a small opening in the bottom of your external doors or windows that allows a pet to enter and leave the house. You can pick from a variety sizes and materials to find the perfect one for you and your pets.
It's important that you take measurements of your windows or doors prior to purchasing the new cat flap. This way you will be able to ensure that the hole is going to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. An effective method is to block off a portion of the door and try to walk through it with your pet. This will give you a precise picture of the opening size (width).
It is also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the floor to the lowest part on their belly. This will ensure the flap is set at an area where your cats feel at ease. If it's too low, they could struggle to get through. If it is too high, they may not be able to use the flap.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will provide the most secure and stable fixings for the installation of your cat flap. If the cat flap kit you purchased didn't include a spirit level, a straight edge can be used instead.
When fitting the cat flap to a glass or UPVC window or door, it is recommended to hire a professional glazier to do this for you. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could compromise their strength and lead to them shattering. This could be an security risk to your home.
Putting a cat flap into brick walls can be a problem, too, since when you drill into a soft section of the wall, it could cause problems with cables and pipes that run through the property. This can lead to expensive repairs or even leaks or weather damage from outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the appropriate size flap then you need to mark where the hole needs to go. Mark the center of the flap using a spirit level. If the template for the cat flap kit does not include an outline of the centreline, photocopy it. Then use a pencil to trace around the template to indicate the location where the hole will be cut.
Be aware that if the cat flap is too low, it could make it difficult for your cat to climb into and out of the house, and if the flap is too high, they may be unable to see what's happening outside. It is best to get it as close to your cat's belly as you can to give them the most comfort and security.
Also, you should be aware not to put the cat flap too close to the frame of a solid wall as it could cause problems with draughts, damp and stability. If you're not familiar with masonry work it may be worth seeking professional help.
Next then, open the door and encourage your cat kitten to enter it by pointing out where they should go (it helps if someone's in the room to encourage them). Once they've done it, you can start letting them in and out as they would like.
It is important not to push your cat or kitten through the flap too fast because it could cause them to become scared. They could easily be injured by the clunk or snap as it closes, and they could be terrified if their tail gets stuck in the flap as they try to exit. Cats also return home to look for intruders. Leaving the door open is dangerous. Your cat could be attacked by a cat they know. Installing a cat door that is small is recommended for your cat or kitten if it knows how to use it.
Installation
It is essential to show your cat how to use the cat flap after it is installed. This will take time but with patience and some treats to encourage them to do it, they will eventually get habit of it. Install a lock to your cat flap if your pet needs extra security, particularly in bad weather or when you're away from home.
Decide where you'd like to place the cat flap on your door. It will need to be placed in a place that opens into an area that is protected from the elements of your garden. This will help your cat feel more secure as they go into and out of your house, and can help to keep other animals from entering your home.
You should also take into consideration the height of the flap. This should be in accordance with your cat's stomach measurement to ensure that they are able to pass through. You can also put steps either side of the entrance to help your cat to get through.
Once you have determined where you want to put the flap, measure the door and mark it with a pencil. This will give you an idea of the best place to cut. Then, you will need to cut an area around the door using the aid of a jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety goggles and a mask for dust protection when doing this, since breathing in dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut into pieces, it is essential to sand the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
After you have finished the sanding process, you can replace the cat flap. It is recommended to put the cat flap such that the lock (if there is one) is positioned on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes in the event that there are any on the door. Then, you should carefully insert the flap inside the hole, ensuring that it is snugly in place.