Introduce your cat to the flap before it's set up so they can become familiar with the size and shape. Open the flap and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cut-out is level and ensure that the cut-out is square and even. cat flap in upvc door cost on your door and align them with the opening for the cat flap The distance between the edges must be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap inside your home is beneficial to the well-being and health of your pet. This is because it will allow the pet to move freely between indoors and outside without you having to let them in or out. It will also stop them from fighting over the litter box and cat food or even the entrance to the house.
The first thing you'll need to do prior to starting your cat flap install is prepare the area in which it will be located. It will be simpler to work with if you eliminate any obstacles. Also, you should take away any furniture or other decorations that could hinder the installation.
When preparing the area, you will need to determine the exact location and measurement you intend to put 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 location that is accessible for your pets, but doesn't compromise your home's structural integrity.
The best place to put the cat flap is in a door that leads to a closed space, such as your closet or laundry room. This will prevent your cat from jumping over it, and will protect your pets from potential dangers. Also, make sure that the flap for your cat is not too low to be used by the small cat, since larger cats may struggle to leap through a flap that is higher.
It could be a good idea to employ a professional handyman if you own a sliding door or a windows with sash that are old-fashioned. It can be difficult to install the cat flap on these doors and windows and any mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap with out damaging the structure of the window or door's integrity.
To determine the space for the cat flap you will need to use a ruler or a tape measure to determine your cat's belly height from the floor. This will enable you to precisely cut the flap's opening. Use a spirit level after you've marked the line to ensure it is horizontal. Follow the directions that came with the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach it to your door so that the bottom edge of the template is in line with the horizontal line that you've drawn and is centered on the centre point of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also referred to as a dog door is a small hole at the bottom of external doors or windows. It allows pets to leave and enter the home. You can pick from a variety of sizes and materials to find the right one for your pet.
Before purchasing a cat flap it's important to accurately measure the dimensions of your window or door in which you plan to install it. You will then be able to ensure that the cat flap will fit and the hole is the right size. 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 passage opening size (width).
It's also recommended to determine the height of your cat from the ground to the lowest point of their stomach. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a height your cats are comfortable using. If it is too low, they might struggle to pass through. If it's too high, they may not be able to use the flap.
In general, you should try to drill your holes at an angle of 45 degrees to the vertical surface. This will give the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap install. 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 include this feature, a straight edge will do equally well.
It's best to hire a professional glazier put in the cat flap on a UPVC or glass window or door. This is because these kinds of doors are typically made of toughened glass and drilling into them may compromise the strength of the glass and could result in it breaking in the future which could pose a security risk for your home.
Putting a cat flap into a brick wall can be problematic, too, because if you drill into a soft section of the wall this can cause issues with pipes and cables that go through the property. This could lead to costly repairs or leaks, or even weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
Mark the hole you'll need it after measuring your cat. Utilizing your spirit level to make sure that it's parallel to the door, and then mark the centre point. If the template for the cat flap doesn't include an outline of the centre line, you can photocopy it and trace around it with a pencil to mark the spot where the hole must be cut.
Remember, if the cat flap is too low, it can be difficult for your cat to get in and out of the house, and if the flap is too high, they may be unable to see what's going on outside. To ensure that your cat feels secure and safe it is best to position the flap as close as possible to their belly.
It is important to not place a cat flap too close to a solid wall frame. This can cause problems with draughts and damp. If you're not familiar working with masonry it's worthwhile to seek out professional assistance.
Then, prop the door open and encourage your cat kitten to come through it by pointing out where they should go (it is helpful if someone else is in the room to encourage them). Once they've passed you can let them in and out as you would like.
It is not advisable to push your cat or kitten through the flap too fast as this could cause them to become scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing may cause injury to your kitten or cat. They'll be more scared if the tail is stuck in the flap. Cats also have a habit of returning home to check on any intrusions, so having the door open at this time could pose a risk since it could lead to your pet being attacked by another cat they are familiar with. Installing a cat door that is small is recommended when your cat or kitten is able to use it.
Installation
Once the flap is set, it is important to show your cat how to use it. It may take some time but with patience and a few treats for encouragement your cat will eventually be able to use it. You may also want to put a lock in the cat flap for added security, particularly during harsh weather conditions or when you're out of the house.
The first thing you need to determine where you would like to put the cat flap in your door. This will need to 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 come in and out of the home, and will also help keep other animals out of your home.
You should also consider the height of the flap for your cat. It should be in line to your cat's measurement of stomach to ensure that they are able to pass through. You can also consider placing steps on either side of the door to assist your cat move through it more easily.
Once you've determined where you'd like to place the cat flap You can measure the door with an eraser and mark the location. This will give you a guide for the best place to cut. Then, you'll need to cut an area around the door with a jigsaw. It is advised to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask while working on this, as inhaling dust could be harmful to your health. Once the square is cut and trimmed, you must sand around the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
After you have finished sanding your door, it is time to can replace the cat flap. It is recommended to put the cat flap in such that the lock (if there is one) is positioned on the inside of the door. If there are screw holes for the cat flap on the door, now drill these into place. Then, you should carefully insert the flap in the hole, ensuring that it fits snugly.