How to Install a Cat Flap

Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's put in place so that they be familiar with the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let them explore it from all angles. Ensure the cut-out is even and ensure that the cut-out 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 in your home is beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. It will allow your pet to move from inside to the outside without you needing to allow them to enter or leave. It also stops them from fighting over the litter box and cat food or even the door to the house itself. The first thing that you will need to do prior to starting your cat flap install is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be located. It will be easier to work in the event that you remove any obstacles. Also, you should remove any furniture and decorations that could hinder your installation. You'll have to trace and measure the area in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will stop you from making a mistake that could ruin the door or wall. Ideally, you will want to put the cat flap somewhere that is easily accessible for your pets, but doesn't harm the strength of the structure of your home. The cat flap can be put in a door that leads to a space that is closed such as your laundry room or closet. This will prevent your cat from soaring over it and you can protect your cat from potential dangers. The flap for cats should be low enough for your cat's smallest to use, as taller cats may struggle to climb over the flap. If you have an open patio door that slides or an old style sash window, it might be an ideal idea to hire an experienced handyman to do the job. It isn't easy to install an animal flap on these doors and windows and a mistake could cause costly damage. A professional will be able to install the cat flap in a safe manner without harming the structural strength of the door or window. To mark the space to place the cat flap, you'll need a ruler or tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will enable you to precisely cut the opening for the cat flap. Use a spirit level after you've marked the line to make sure it's horizontal. Check the instructions included with the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach it to your door so that the bottom edge of the template coincides with the horizontal line you have drawn and is centered on the centre 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 permits a pet to enter and leave the home. They are available in various sizes and materials, so you can pick the right one for your house and pets. Before purchasing a cat flap, it is important to measure precisely the size of your doors or window where you intend to install it. This way you can be sure that the hole will to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. This method can be used to determine the size of the opening by cutting off a section of it and walking through it with your pet. It's also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the ground up to the lowest point of their belly. This will ensure that the flap is set at a height your cats are comfortable using. If it's too low, they may struggle to get through, and if it's too high, they might not be able to use the flap at all. Generally, you should drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most secure and stable installation of your cat flap. The best option is to use a spirit-level to help you with this but if the instructions that came with your cat flap kit do not include this, straight edges will work just as well. When you are installing the cat flap onto glass or UPVC window or door, it is recommended to hire an expert glazier to do this for you. The doors are typically toughened, and drilling can weaken their integrity and result in them breaking. This could pose a security threat for your home. Placing a cat flap in the brick wall could be a problem, too, since drilling into a soft part of the wall, this could cause problems with pipes and cables that go through the property. This can lead expensive repairs and leaks, as well as weather damage from outside. Marking Once you've measured your cat or kitten to find the right size flap for them, it's time to mark where the hole needs to go. Make use of your spirit level to make sure it runs in line with the door, then mark the center point. If the template you've chosen for the cat flap doesn't include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and trace around it using a pencil to mark the spot where the hole needs to be cut. Be aware that if the cat flap is too low, it could be difficult for your cat to climb into and out of the house, and if it's too high, they might be unable to see what's going on outside. It is recommended to make 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 a cat flap in too close to the frame of a solid wall as it could cause problems with damp, draughts, and stability. If you're not experienced working with masonry, it might be worth seeking professional help. Then step is to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is nearby to encourage them). Once they've made it through it then you can gradually begin to allow them to enter and exit at will. It's important that you don't force your cat or kitten through the flap too fast as this can lead to them getting scared. The clunk, snap, and squeak of the door closing can cause harm to your kitten or cat. They will be even more scared if the tail is caught in the flap. Cats also return home to check for intruders. Leaving the door open is risky. Your cat could be attacked by a cat they are familiar with. Installing a small cat door is recommended when your cat or kitten is able to use it. Installation Once the cat flap is in place It is essential to show your cat how to use it. It will 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 install a lock on the cat flap for added security, particularly during harsh weather conditions or when away from the house. Decide where you'd like to put the cat flap on your door. It will need to be placed in a place that opens into a sheltered part of your garden. This will help your cat feel safer as they enter and exit the home and will also stop other animals from entering your home. Another thing to consider is the height that you want to put the flap for your cat at. 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 either side of the entrance to help your cat pass through. After you have chosen the location you would like to put the cat flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with the pencil. This will give you a guide for the best place to cut. Then, you'll need to cut an area around the door using the aid of a jigsaw. Wear safety goggles and a dust mask, to ensure your health from inhaling dust. After the square is cut then sand the edges the door. This will create a smooth edge. Once you have finished sanding, you can now replace the cat flap inside your door. cat flap fitting near me repairmywindowsanddoors should be put in a position where the lock, if there's one, is located on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes should there be any on the door. Then you can carefully place the cat flap in the hole. Make sure that it fits snugly.