Introduce your cat to the flap prior to installation to allow them to become familiar with its dimensions and shape. The flap should be opened and let them explore it from all angles.
Make sure that the cut-out is even and ensure that the cut-out is square and even. Mark the screw holes on the door and align them with the opening for the cat flap - the distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
A cat flap in your home is beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet. This is because it will allow the pet to move freely between the indoors and outdoors without having to allow them to enter or exit. It also stops them from fighting over cat food and litter box or even the door to the house.
Prepare the area where you'll be installing your cat flap prior to when you begin. It will be simpler to work in the event that you remove any obstructions. You should also remove any furniture and other decorations that may interfere with the installation.
In preparing the area, you will need to determine the exact location and measurement you intend to put the cat flap. This will allow you to avoid making mistakes that could destroy your door or wall. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to put the cat flap in a place that is easily accessible to your pets, but doesn't compromise the strength of the structure of your home.
The cat flap can be set on the doorway leading to a closed space like your laundry room or closet. This will prevent your cat from soaring over it and you can protect your pets from potential dangers. You should also ensure that the flap for cats is not too low to be used by the smaller cat, as larger cats may struggle to leap through a higher-height flap.
It could be a good option to employ an experienced handyman if you own a sliding door or a windows with sash that are old-fashioned. It can be difficult to install a cat flap on these doors and windows, and mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional will be able to install the cat flap with care and without compromising the structural integrity of the door or window.
You'll need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to mark the area for the flap. This will allow you to precisely cut the opening for the cat flap. Use a spirit level once you've marked the line to ensure it's horizontal. cat flap installer that came with your cat flap kit for the template drawing. Attach the template to the door so that the bottom edge of the template is with the horizontal lines you have drawn. The template should be placed in the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as pet doors is a small opening in the bottom of your external doors or windows that allow a pet to enter and leave the home. They are available in a variety of sizes and materials, so you can pick the right one for your home and pet.
It is essential to take measurements of your windows or doors prior to purchasing a new cat flap. It is then possible to be certain that the cat flap you purchase will fit and that the hole is the correct size. One method is to block off a portion of the door, and then try to walk through with your pet, this will give you a precise idea of the opening size (width).
It is also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the floor to the bottom on their belly. This will ensure the flap is placed at the right place for your cat to feel at ease. If it's too low they may struggle to get through and if it's too high they may be unable to use the flap at all.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will result in the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap installation. If your cat flap kit did not include a spirit-level, a straight edge can be used instead.
When fitting the cat flap to glass or UPVC window or door, it is best to employ an experienced glazier to complete this for you. This is due to the fact that these types of doors are typically hardened, and drilling into them could weaken the integrity of the glass and may result in it breaking in the future, which could pose a security hazard for your home.
Installing a cat flap on the brick wall could be a problem, too, since 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 even leaks and 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 using your spirit level. If your template for the cat flap kit does not include an outline of the centreline, photocopy it. Then, use a pencil to draw around the template to indicate the area where the hole needs to be cut.
If the flap for your cat is too low, your cat could have difficulty getting into and out. Likewise, should you put it too high, the cat might not be able see what's happening outside. To ensure that your cat feels at ease and secure, it is best to put the flap as close as you can to their stomach.
You also want to 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, prop open the door and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is nearby helping them). Once they've made it through it then you can gradually begin to let them in and out at will.
It is not advisable to push your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly as this could cause them to become scared. They could be injured by the clunk and snap when the flap closes, and even more terrified if their tail gets caught in it as they attempt to get out. Cats are also known to return home to check for intruders, and leaving the door open can be risky. Your pet could be attacked by a cat they are familiar with. Installing a cat door that is small is recommended for your cat or kitten if it knows how to use it.
Installation
Once the cat flap is in place It is crucial to teach your cat to use it. It may take some time, but with patience and a few treats to entice them, they will eventually get the habit of it. You might also want to put a lock on the flap to provide security, especially during adverse weather conditions or when you're away from home.
Decide where you'd like to place the cat flap on your door. This will need to be in a location that opens onto a sheltered area of your garden. This will make your cat feel more secure as they move into and out of your home, and will also help to keep other animals from entering your home.
Also, you should take into consideration the height of the flap. It should be in line with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they are able to move through. You can also put steps on either side of the entrance to help your cat pass through.
Once you've determined where you want to put the flap Measure the door and mark it with the pencil. This will provide you with an idea of where to cut. Then, you'll need to cut an area on the door using a jigsaw. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask while working on this, as breathing in dust can be dangerous to your health. After the square has been cut, sand the edges of the door. This will give an even edge.
After you've completed sanding, you can now replace the cat flap inside your door. The cat flap should be put in a position where the lock, if there's one, is on the inside of your door. If there are holes for screws for the cat flap on the door, you must now drill these into place. Then carefully insert the flap into the hole. Make sure it fits perfectly.