Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's installed so they can get used to the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let them explore it from every angle.
Make sure the cut-out is level and square. Mark the screw holes and align them with the cat flap opening. The distance between the edges should be equal.
Preparation
Having a cat flap installed in your home is beneficial for the health and well-being of your pet. It will allow your pet to move from inside to the outside, without having allow them to enter or leave. It can also stop them fighting over the litter box and cat food, or even the door to the house.
The first thing that you must do before starting the installation of your cat flap is to make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be located. This is because eliminating any obstacles from the area will help you to work. Also, you should take away any furniture or decorations that may interfere with your installation.
In preparing the area, you will need to measure and mark out where you intend to put the cat flap. This will allow you to avoid making mistakes that could destroy your door or wall. You will want to put the cat flap in a place that is accessible to your pets, but doesn't harm the structural integrity of your home.
The cat flap can be put in a door that leads to a space that is closed like your closet or laundry room. This will stop your cat from jumping over it and will allow you to keep your cats safe from any possible dangers. You should also ensure that the flap for cats is not too low to be used by the smaller cat, as taller cats may have difficulty leaping through a flap that is higher.
It is a good idea to employ a professional handyman if you own sliding doors or a sash window that is old-fashioned. Installing a cat flap in these types of windows and doors isn't easy and mistakes could lead to expensive damage. A professional can install the cat flap without causing damage to the structure of the window or door's integrity.
You'll need to determine 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 cut precisely the opening for the flap. Use a spirit level after having drawn the line to ensure it's horizontal. After that, read the instructions included with the cat flap kit to find the template. Attach the template to your door so that the bottom edge is in line 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 pet door is a small opening at the bottom of your exterior doors or windows that allows a pet to leave and enter the house. They come in various sizes and materials, so you can choose the best one for your home and pets.
Before purchasing an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the dimensions of your doors or window in which you plan to install it. You can then be sure that your cat flap will fit and the hole is 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's also advisable to measure the height of your cat from the ground up to the lowest part of their belly. This will ensure that the flap is set at a level that your cat is comfortable with. If it's too low, they might struggle to get through. If it's too high, they might not be in a position to use the flap.
In cat flap installer near me repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk , you should 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 help you with this, but if the directions included with your cat flap kit do not include this, straight edges will work just as well.
It is best to employ a professional glazier install the cat flap on an UPVC or glass door or window. The doors are typically toughened and drilling could compromise their strength and cause them to shatter. This could create a security threat for your home.
Placing a cat flap in the brick wall could be problematic too, as when you drill into a soft section of the wall, this could cause problems with pipes and cables that go through the property. This could result in costly repairs or even leaks or weather damage caused by the outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat or kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them, it's time to mark where the hole should go. Utilizing your spirit level to make sure it is flush with the door, then mark the centre point. If the template you have for the cat flap kit does not include a centreline, you can photocopy it. Then use a pencil to draw around the template to indicate the location where the hole will be cut.
Remember, if your cat's flap is too low, it can make it difficult for your cat to go in and out of your home, and if it's too high, they may struggle to see what is happening outside. It is best to get it as close to your cat's belly as you can, to provide them with the most comfort and security.
Also, you should be cautious not to place a cat flap too close to the frame of a solid wall, as it could cause problems with draughts, damp and stability. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance when you're not experienced with masonry.
Then, prop the door open and encourage your cat or kitten to go through it by showing them where to go (it helps if there's someone in the room to encourage them). Once they've made it through, you can start letting them go in and out as you want.
It's important that you don't allow your kitten or cat to go through the flap too fast as this can lead to them becoming scared. The clunk, snap and squeak of the door closing can cause harm to your cat or kitten. They will be even more terrified if their tail is caught in the flap. Cats also tend to return home to check for intrusions, so having the door open at this time can also be a concern since it could lead to your pet being attacked by another cat that they know. This is the reason it's best to install a small cat flap only and only if your cat or kitten is aware of its use.
Installation
Once the flap is in place It is essential to teach your cat how to use it. It will take a while however, with patience and a few treats as encouragement your cat will eventually learn to utilize it. You might also want to put a lock on the flap to provide security, especially in harsh weather conditions or when you're away from home.
The first thing to determine where you would like to place the cat flap in your door. It will need to be put in a spot that can open up to an area of protection in your garden. This will allow your cat to feel more secure when they go in and out of the house, and can help to keep other animals from entering your home.
It is also important to be aware of the height of your flap. It should be in the same space as your cat's belly measurement, to ensure that they will be able to pass through the door easily. You can also consider placing steps on either side of the door to assist your cat navigate it more easily.
Once you've decided where you would like to put the flap take a measurement of the door and mark it with a pencil. This will give you a guide for where to cut. Then, you will need to cut a square on the door using the aid of a jigsaw. Wear safety goggles and a dust mask, to protect your health from inhaling dust. After the square is cut then sand the edges the door. This will give a smooth edge.
After you've finished the sanding process, you can replace the cat flap. You should put the cat flap so that the lock (if there is one) is on the inside of the door. Make the screw holes, in the event that there are any on the door. Then carefully insert the flap into the hole. Make sure it fits perfectly.