Introduce your cat to the flap prior to installation so that they be familiar with the size and shape. Prop the flap open and let them explore it from every angle.
Make sure that the cutout is even and square. Mark the screw holes on your door and align them with the opening of the cat flap - the distance between the edges should be the same.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap at home can be beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet. It will allow your pet to freely move from the inside to the outside without having allow them to enter or leave. It can also prevent them from fighting over litter boxes, cat food or the door to the home.
The first thing you'll need to do prior to beginning the installation of your cat flap is to prepare the area where it will be installed. It will be easier to work with if you eliminate any obstacles. It is also important to take away any furniture or other decorations that might get in the way of your installation.
You'll be required to trace and measure the area in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will allow you to avoid making mistakes that could destroy your wall or door. Ideally, you will want to put the flap somewhere that is easy for your cats but that won't compromise the strength of the structure of your home.
The cat flap can be set in a door leading to a space that is closed like your laundry room or closet. This will stop your cat from jumping over it, and you can protect your pets from dangers. Also, make sure that the flap for your cat is not too low to be used by your smaller cat, as taller cats may have difficulty leaping through a higher-height flap.
If you have a sliding patio door or an old style sash window, it could be best to employ an experienced handyman to do the task. It isn't easy to install a cat flap on these doors and windows and a mistake could lead to costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the structural integrity.
You'll need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to mark the area to be used for the flap. This will allow you to accurately cut out the opening for the cat flap. Use a spirit level after you've drawn the line to ensure it is horizontal. Next, check the instructions included in the cat flap kit to find the template. Attach this to your door in a way that the bottom edge of the template aligns with the horizontal line you have 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 at the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that permits pets to enter and leave the home. You can pick from a variety sizes and materials to find the perfect one for your pet.
Before purchasing a cat flap it's important to measure precisely the size of your window or door where you intend to install it. You will then be able to ensure that the cat flap you purchase will fit and the hole is the right size. A good technique is to block off a section of the door, and then try to walk through it with your pet. This will give you an exact picture of the opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the floor to the bottom on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is placed at a level that your cats are comfortable with. If it's too low, they might struggle to pass through and if it's high, they may not be able to use the flap in any way.
In general, you should aim to drill your holes at a 45-degree angle to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most stable and secure installation of your cat flap. It is recommended to use a spirit-level to help you with this but if the instructions that came with your cat flap kit don't have this then straight edges will work the same job.
It is recommended to have an experienced glazier install the cat flap in a UPVC or glass window or door. This is due to the fact that these types of doors are usually toughened and drilling into them may compromise the strength of the glass and may lead to it shattering in the future, which could pose a security risk for your home.
It is also difficult to install a cat flap on brick walls, since drilling into a soft area of the wall could cause issues for pipes and cables that run through the property. This could lead to costly repairs and leaks, as well as weather damage from outside.
Marking
After you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the correct size flap then you need to mark where the hole will be. Mark the centre 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.
If the cat flap is set too low, your cat will struggle to get into and out. Likewise, if you place it too high, your cat might not be able to see what's going on outside. To ensure that your cat is secure and safe, it is best to put the flap as close as possible to their stomach.
It is crucial to not place a cat flap too close to a solid wall frame. This can cause problems with draughts and damp. If you're unfamiliar working with masonry it's worthwhile to seek out professional assistance.
Next step is to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It helps if a person is on the inside encouraging them). Once they've walked through the door 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 fast as this could cause them to become scared. They can easily become injured by the clunk and snap when it closes, and be even more scared if their tail is caught in it as they try to exit. Cats also return home to search for intruders, and leaving the door open is risky. Your cat could be attacked by a cat they know. Installing a small cat door is best if your kitten or cat is able to use it.
Installation
It is crucial to teach your cat how to use the flap once it's been installed. It may take some time but with patience and a few treats to encourage them to do it, they will eventually get the hang of it. You may also want to install a lock on the cat flap for added security, especially during adverse weather conditions or when away from home.
Decide where you want to place the cat flap on your door. It should be in a location that opens onto an area that is protected from the elements of your garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure when they leave and enter the home and will keep other animals from entering your home.
Another thing to consider is the height you'd like to set the cat flap at. This should be in line to your cat's measurement of stomach to ensure that they are able to traverse through. You can also put steps either side of the entrance to assist your cat get through.
Once you have determined where you want to place the cat flap Measure the door and mark it with a pencil. cat flap installation in glass doors near me will provide you with an idea of where to cut. The next step is to cut a square out of the door with a jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety glasses and a dust mask while doing this, as inhaling dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut and trimmed, you must sand the edges of the door to smooth the edges.
After you've finished sanding, now replace the cat flap on your door. It is recommended to 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, in the event that there are any on the door. Then, carefully place the cat flap into the hole, making sure it is snugly in place.