Introduce your cat to the flap before it's set up so they can be familiar with the size 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 your door and align them with the cat flap opening The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
A cat flap at home can be beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet. It will allow your pet to move from inside to the outside without you having let them in or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over cat food, litter boxes or the entrance to the home.
The first thing you must do prior to beginning your cat flap install is prepare the area where it will be installed. It will be simpler to work if you remove any obstacles. You will also want to remove any furniture or decorations that might hinder the installation.
When preparing the area you must measure and mark out where you are planning to install the cat flap. This will stop you from making a mistake which could cause damage to your wall or door. It is important to place the cat flap in a spot that is accessible to your cats, but won't affect the structural integrity of your home.
The cat flap can be placed on the doorway leading to a locked space like your closet or laundry room. This will stop the cat from jumping over it, and will protect your pets from potential dangers. You should also ensure that the cat flap is low enough to be used by the smaller cat, as taller cats will struggle leaping through a flap that is higher.
It could be a good idea to hire an expert handyman when you have sliding doors or window with a sash that is old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap into these doors and windows can be challenging, and mistakes can result in costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the structural strength.
To determine the space for the cat flap you'll need a ruler or tape measure to determine the height of your cat's belly from the floor. This will allow you to cut precisely the flap's opening. Once you have the line marked using a spirit level, you can use it to ensure that it is perfectly horizontal. Follow the directions included with the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach it to the door so that the bottom edge of the template aligns with the horizontal line you have drawn and is centered on the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, sometimes referred to as pet door is a small hole in the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that allow a pet to go inside and out of the home. You can choose from a range of sizes and materials to find the best one for your pet and you.
It's important that you take measurements of your windows or doors before purchasing the new cat flap. This way you can ensure that the hole is going to be the right size and that the cat flap will fit. A good technique is to block off a part of the door and then try to walk through with your pet, this will give you an accurate idea of the opening size (width).
It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the floor to the lowest part on their belly. This will ensure the flap is placed at a height where your cats feel at ease. If it's too low, they might struggle to pass through. If it's too high, they might not be able to use the flap.
In general, you should strive to make your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most stable and secure installation of your cat flap. If the cat flap kit you purchased didn't come with a spirit level, a straight edge can be used instead.
When fitting the cat flap into a glass or UPVC window or door, it's best to hire an experienced glazier to complete this for you. The doors are usually made tougher and drilling could compromise their strength and result in them breaking. This could be the risk of security for your home.
Placing a cat flap in a brick wall can be problematic, too, because when you drill into a soft section of the wall, this could cause issues with cables and pipes that run through the property. This can lead expensive repairs, or even leaks or weather damage that comes from outside.
Marking
After you've measured your cat kitten to find the right size flap for them, it's time to mark the location where the hole needs to go. Mark the center of the flap using a spirit level. If the template for the cat flap doesn't include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and draw around it with pencil to mark the spot where the hole needs to be cut.
Remember, if your cat's flap is too low, it could be difficult for your cat to go in and out of the house, and if it's too high, they could struggle to see what is going on outside. To ensure that your cat feels secure and safe it is recommended to position the flap as close as you can to their belly.
You also want to be aware not to put a cat flap in too close to the frame of a solid wall as it could cause issues with draughts, damp and stability. If repairmywindowsanddoors with masonry work, it might be beneficial to seek professional assistance.
Then you need to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is inside, encouraging them). Once they've passed then you can begin letting them in and out as they please.
It is not advisable to push your cat or kitten through the flap at a high speed because this can cause them to become scared. The clunk, snap, and squeak of the door closing can cause injury to your cat or kitten. They'll be more terrified if their tail gets caught in the flap. Cats also are known to return home to check for intruders so having the door open at this time could pose a risk because it could result in your pet being attacked by another cat they know. Installing a cat door that is small is best when your cat or kitten is able to use it.
Installation
It is essential to show your cat how to use the flap once it's installed. It may take some time but with patience and a few treats for an incentive your cat will eventually learn how to utilize it. You may also want to put a lock on the cat flap for added security, especially in harsh weather conditions or when you are away from home.
The first thing you should determine where you would like to put the cat flap in your door. It will need to be placed in a location that opens up into a sheltered part of your garden. This will make your cat feel more secure when they come into and out of your house, and also prevent other animals from accessing your home.
You should also consider the height of the flap. It should be in line with the measurement of your cat's belly as this will ensure that they can pass through easily. You can also place steps on either side of the entrance to help your cat pass through.
Once you've determined where you want to place the cat flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with the pencil. This will help you determine where you need to cut. You will then need to cut a square out of the door using an Jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask while doing this, as breathing in dust could be harmful to your health. After the square is cut and trimmed, you must sand around the edges of the door to smooth the edges.
When you are done sanding your door, it is time to can replace the cat flap. You should put the cat flap in so that the lock (if there is one) is on the inside of the door. Drill the screw holes should there be any on the door. Then, carefully place the cat flap into the hole, making sure it fits snugly.