How to Install a Cat Flap
Introduce your cat to the flap before it's put in place so that they get used to the size and shape. Open the flap 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 should be the same. Preparation Having a cat flap installed in your home can be beneficial for the health and wellbeing of your pet. It will allow your pet to move from the inside to the outside without having allow them to enter or leave. It will also stop them from fighting over the cat food and litter box or even the door to the house itself. The first thing that you'll need to do prior to beginning your cat flap install is make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be installed. This is because eliminating any obstructions from the area will help you to work. You will also want to remove any furniture or decorations that could hinder the installation. You'll be required to mark and measure the area in which you plan to install the cat flap. This will allow you to avoid making an error that could damage your door or wall. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to place the cat flap somewhere that is easily accessible to your cat, yet doesn't affect the integrity of your home's structure. A good location to place the cat flap is inside an entrance that leads to an enclosed space like your laundry room or closet. This will stop your cat from jumping over it, and will keep your cats away from potential dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for the smallest cat to use, as taller cats may struggle to jump through a flap that is higher. It could be a good idea to employ a professional handyman if you own sliding doors or windows with sash that are old-fashioned. It can be difficult to install an animal flap on these doors and windows and a mistake could lead to costly damage. A professional will be able to install the cat flap safely and without harming the structural strength of the window or door. You'll need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground to determine the area for the flap. This will enable you to precisely cut the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level once you've drawn the line to ensure it is horizontal. Review the instructions included with the cat flap kit to find 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 aligned with the center point of the door. Measurement A cat flap sometimes known as pet doors is a small hole in the bottom of your external doors or windows that permits pets to enter and leave the house. You can pick from a range of sizes and materials to find the best one for your pet and you. Before purchasing an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the dimensions of your doors or window in which you're planning to put it. cat flap fitting near me can be sure that the hole will to be of the correct size and that the cat flap will fit. This method can be used to measure the width of the opening by securing off a section of it and walking through it with your pet. It is also recommended to measure the height of your cat from the ground to the bottom of their stomach. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a height your cat is comfortable with. If it is too low, they may struggle to get through. If it is too high, they might not be in a position to use the flap. Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most secure and stable installation of your cat flap. If the cat flap kit you purchased didn't include a spirit-level, a straight edge could be used in place. It is best to employ an experienced glazier install the cat flap on an UPVC or glass window or door. These doors are usually toughened and drilling could weaken their integrity and result in them breaking. This could create 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 part of the wall, it could cause problems with pipes and cables that run through the property. This can result in costly repairs and leaks, as well as weather damage caused by outside. Marking Mark the hole where you need it after measuring your cat's size. Use your spirit level to ensure it is flush with the door, then mark the centre point. If the template you've chosen for your cat flap kit does not include the centre line, copy it and trace around it with a pencil to mark the spot where the hole will need to be cut. Be aware that if the cat flap is too low, it will make it difficult for your cat to get into and out of the house, and if it's too high, they may be unable to see what's happening outside. It is recommended to make it as close to the height of your cat's belly as you can to give them the most comfort and security. It is also important to be aware not to put the cat flap too close to the frame of a solid wall, as it can lead to problems with draughts, damp and stability. If you're not familiar with masonry work, it might be beneficial to seek professional assistance. Then step is to prop the door open and show your cat or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is on the inside to encourage them). Once they've passed, you can start letting them in and out as they please. It is important not to force your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly as this could lead to them getting scared. They could be injured by the clunk or snap as it closes, and even more terrified if their tail gets caught in it as they attempt to leave. Cats also tend to return home to check for invaders, so leaving the door open at this time could pose a risk as it can lead to your pet being attacked by another cat they know. This is why it's best to put up a small cat flap only and only if your cat knows to use it. Installation Once the cat flap is installed, it is important to show your cat how to use it. It will take some time, but with patience, and a few treats as encouragement your cat will eventually be able to utilize it. Install a lock to the cat flap if you need extra security, especially during bad weather or when you're away from home. The first thing to determine the location you'd like to place the cat flap inside your door. It will need to be put in a spot that can open up to an area that is protected from the elements of your garden. This will make your cat feel more secure when they exit and enter the home and will keep other animals from entering your home. Also, you should consider the height of the flap for your cat. It should be in line with your cat's stomach measurement to ensure that they can move through. You can also consider placing steps either side of the door, to help your cat get through it more easily. Once you've determined where you'd like to place the cat flap You can measure the door with a pencil and mark the area. This will give you an idea of the best place to cut. Then, you'll need to cut an area on the door with an jigsaw. Wear safety goggles, and a dust mask, to keep your health safe from dust inhalation. After the square is cut, sand the edges of the door. This will create an even edge. After you've completed sanding, you can now replace the cat flap on your door. The cat flap should be installed so that the lock, if it has one, is located on the inside of your door. If there are holes for screws for the cat flap on the door, then drill them into place. Then, carefully place the flap in the hole, ensuring that it fits snuggly.