Introduce your cat to the flap prior to the installation so that they be familiar with the dimensions and shape. Prop the flap open and let them explore it from every angle.
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 of the cat flap The distance between the edges should be the same.
Preparation
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 the inside to the outside without you needing to allow them to enter or leave. 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 before you begin. This is because removing obstructions from the area will help you to work. You will also want to take away any furniture or other decorations that could get in the way of the installation.
In preparing the area you must take measurements and mark the location where you intend to put the cat flap. This will stop you from making a mistake that could cause damage to your wall or door. It is best to put the cat flap somewhere that is easy for your cat, yet doesn'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 prevent your cat from jumping over it, and also protect your cat from potential dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for the smallest cat to use, as larger cats might struggle to jump through a higher flap.
It could be a good idea to employ a professional handyman when you have sliding doors or window with a sash that is old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap on these doors and windows can be a challenge, and mistakes can result in costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap without damaging the structural strength.
You will need to measure the height of your cat's belly from the ground in order to mark the area to be used for the flap. This will enable you to precisely cut the flap's opening. Use a spirit level once you've drawn the line to make sure it is horizontal. Next, check the instructions included with the cat flap kit to locate the template drawing. Attach the template to your door, so that the bottom edge of the template is with the horizontal lines that you've drawn. The template should be placed in the middle of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as a dog door is a small opening located at the bottom of exterior doors or windows. It lets pets get in and out of the house. They come in a variety of sizes and materials so that you can choose the best one for your house and pets.
Before you purchase an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the size of your doors or window in which you're planning to put it. You will then be able to ensure that your cat flap will fit and the hole will be the correct size. This method can be used to determine the width of the opening by blocking off a section of it and walking through it with your pet.
It is also recommended to measure the height of your feline from the floor to the bottom on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a height your cats are comfortable using. If it's too low, they might struggle to pass through and if it's high they may be unable to use the flap in any way.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will ensure the most stable and secure installation of your cat flap. Ideally you should use a spirit-level to assist you with this, however if the instructions that came with your cat flap kit do not include this, a straight edge will do the same job.
When fitting the cat flap onto glass or UPVC window or door, it is best to employ an experienced glazier to complete this for you. This is because these types of doors are typically toughened and drilling into them could weaken the integrity of the glass and possibly result in it breaking in the future which could be a security risk for your home.
Putting a cat flap into a brick wall can be problematic, too, because drilling into a soft area of the wall, it could cause issues with cables and pipes that run through the property. This can result in costly repairs or leaks, or even weather damage from outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them It's time to mark where the hole should go. Mark the centre of the flap using your 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 draw around the template to mark the location where the hole will be cut.
If the flap for your cat is set too low, your cat could be unable to get in and out, and should you put it too high, your cat may not be able see what's going on outside. To ensure that your cat feels safe and comfortable, it is best to position the flap as close as you can to their belly.
It is essential to avoid placing a cat flap too close to a solid wall frame. This could cause issues with draughts and damp. It's worth getting professional help in case you're not familiar with masonry.
Then, prop the door open and then encourage your cat or kitten to come through it by pointing them to where they need to go (it helps if there's someone on the inside to encourage them). Once they've passed then you can begin letting them in and out as you please.
It is important not to push your cat or kitten through the flap too quickly because this can cause them to be scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing may cause harm to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if the tail is trapped in the flap. Cats are also known to return home to look for intruders, and leaving the door open could be dangerous. Your cat could be attacked by another cat they know. This is the reason it's best to install a small cat flap and only if your cat or kitten is aware of using it.
Installation
Once the cat flap is installed It is essential to teach your cat to use it. It will take some time but with patience and some treats to encourage them to learn, they will eventually get the grasp of it. Install a lock to your cat flap if your pet needs extra security, especially in the event of bad weather or you're away from home.
The first thing you need to do is decide where you want to place the cat flap on your door. It will need to be placed in a place that opens into 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 factor to consider is the height that you'd like to set the flap on your cat. This should be in accordance to your cat's measurement of stomach to ensure that they are able to traverse through. It is also possible to put steps on either side of the door, to help your cat move through it more easily.
Once you have chosen the location you would like to put the flap, measure the door and mark it with a pencil. This will help you determine the best place you will need to cut. Then, you'll need to cut out a square on the door using an jigsaw. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk and a dust mask, to protect your health from inhaling dust. After cutting the square, it is necessary to sand around the edges of the door to smooth the edges.
After you've finished sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. The cat flap should be put in a position where the lock, if there's one, is located on the inside of your door. If there are 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.