Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they become familiar with the dimensions and shape. The flap should be opened 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 your cat flap opening. The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap inside your home is beneficial to the well-being and health of your pet. It allows your pet to move from inside to the outside without you needing to allow them in or out. It also stops them from fighting over litter box and cat food, or even the door to the house.
Prepare the area in which you'll install your cat flap prior to begin. cat flap installers will be simpler to work with if you eliminate any obstructions. Also, you should take away any furniture or decorations that could hinder your installation.
When you are preparing the space it is important to measure and mark out where you plan on installing the cat flap. This will prevent you from making a mistake which could damage your wall or door. Ideally, you will want to place the cat flap in a place that is easily accessible to your cats but that won't harm the structural integrity of your home.
The cat flap can be placed in a door leading to a closed space such as your laundry room or closet. This will stop the cat from jumping over it, and also protect your cat from potential dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for your smallest cat to access, as taller cats may struggle to jump through a flap that is higher.
If you have a sliding patio door or an old-fashioned sash window, it could be an ideal idea to hire an expert handyman for the job. Installing a cat flap in these types of windows and doors isn't easy and mistakes can result in costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap safely and without harming the structural integrity of the door or window.
To mark out the area for 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 allow you to precisely cut the opening for the cat flap. Use a spirit level after having marked the line to ensure it's horizontal. Check the instructions that came along with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach this to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line that you've drawn and is centered on the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as a pet door is a small opening in the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that permits a pet to leave and enter the house. They come in various sizes and materials so that you can pick the right one for your house and pets.
Before you purchase an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the size of your window or door in which you're planning to put it. This way, you can be sure that the hole to be the right 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 accurate picture of the opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the floor to the lowest point on their belly. This will ensure the flap is set at an area where your cats are at ease. If it's too low, they might struggle to get through. If it is too high, they might not be able to use the flap.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most stable and secure installation of your cat flap. The best option is to use a spirit-level to help you with this, however if the instructions that came with your cat flap kit don't have this then a straight edge will do the same job.
It's best to hire a professional glazier install the cat flap on an UPVC or glass window or door. This is because these kinds of doors are normally made of toughened glass and drilling into them can compromise the strength of the glass and possibly lead to it shattering in the future, which could pose a security risk for your home.
Placing a cat flap in the brick wall could be a problem, too, since when you drill into a soft part of the wall, this could cause problems with pipes and cables that run through the property. This could lead to costly repairs, or even leaks and weather damage from outside.
Marking
After you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them, it's time to mark the location where the hole needs to go. Use your spirit level to ensure it runs in line with the door, then mark the centre point. If the template for the cat flap kit doesn't include a centreline, you can photocopy it. Then use a pencil to trace around the template to mark the location where the hole will be cut.
Remember, if the cat flap is too low, it could be difficult for your cat to go in and out of the house, and if the flap is too high, they may be unable to see what's happening outside. To ensure that your cat feels safe and comfortable it is best to put the flap as close as is possible to their stomach.
It is important to keep a cat flap from being too close to a solid wall frame. This could result in problems with damp and draughts. If you're unfamiliar working with masonry it may be beneficial to seek professional assistance.
Then, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is on the inside encouraging them). Once they've made it through it then you can gradually begin to let them in and out at will.
You should not push your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly because this can cause them to become scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing can cause harm to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if their tail is caught in the flap. Cats are also known to return home to look for intruders. Leaving the door open can be risky. Your cat could be attacked by another cat they know. This is why it's best to install a small cat flap and only when your cat or kitten knows to use it.
Installation
It is important to show your cat how to use the cat flap after it's installed. It will take some time but with patience and a few treats for an incentive, your cat will eventually learn to use it. You might also want to put a lock in the cat flap for added security, particularly during harsh weather conditions or when you're out of the house.
Choose the location where you'd like to place the cat flap on your door. It must be located in a place that opens onto a sheltered area of your garden. This will help your cat feel safer as they leave and enter the house. It can also stop other animals from entering your home.
Another factor to consider is the height you'd like to place the cat flap at. It should be in line with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they are able to traverse through. You could also think about placing steps on either side of the door, to help your cat move through it with ease.
Once you've decided on where you'd like to put the cat flap, you can measure the door using a pencil and mark the spot. This will allow you to determine the best place to cut. You will then need to cut a square into the door using a jigsaw. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask, to keep your health safe from dust inhalation. After the square has been cut and sanded, you can sand the edges of the door. This will create an even edge.
When you are done sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The flap should be put in a position where the lock, if there is one, is on the side of your door. Make the screw holes, should there be any on the door. Then carefully insert the cat flap in the hole. Make sure it fits perfectly.