How To Install A Cat Flap
Introduce your cat to the flap prior to when it's set up so they can get used to the size and shape. The flap should be opened and let your cat explore it from every angle.
Ensure 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 for the cat flap - the distance between the edges should be equal.
Preparation
Installing a cat flap in your home can be beneficial for the health and well-being of your pet. It allows your pet to freely move from the inside to the outside without needing to let them in or leave. It can also prevent them from fighting over cat food, litter boxes or the door to the home.
The first thing you must do prior to beginning the installation of your cat flap is to make sure that you have the area ready for where it will be located. It will be simpler to work in the event that you remove any obstacles. Also, you should remove any furniture and decorations that may interfere with the installation.
You'll need to mark and measure the area where you'll be installing the cat flap. This will help you avoid making a mistake that could cause damage to your door or wall. It is best to place the cat flap somewhere that is easily accessible to your pets, but doesn't harm the strength of the structure of your home.
The cat flap can be placed in a door leading to a locked space, like your closet or laundry room. This will prevent your cat from jumping over it, and you can protect your cat from potential dangers. The cat flap should be low enough for your smallest cat to use, as larger cats might struggle to climb over a flap that is higher.
If you have an open patio door that slides or an old-fashioned sash window, it might be a good idea to employ an expert handyman for the task. It isn't easy to install the cat flap on these windows and doors and any mistakes can cause costly damage. A professional can install the cat flap in a safe manner without compromising the structural integrity of the window or door.
To mark the space for the cat flap, you'll need an ruler or tape measure to determine the height of your cat's belly from the floor. This will allow you to precisely cut the flap's opening. Once you have the line drawn using a spirit level, you can use it to ensure it is perfectly horizontal. Next, check the instructions included in the cat flap kit to find the template drawing. Attach the template to your door, so that the bottom edge of the template is with the horizontal lines you've drawn. The template should be placed in the center of the door.
Measurement
A cat flap, also known as a dog door, is a small opening at the bottom of exterior doors or windows. It allows pets to enter and exit the home. They come in a variety of sizes and materials so that you can pick the ideal one for your house and pets.
Before purchasing an animal flap, you need to accurately measure the size of your windows or doors in which you plan to install it. This way you will be able to ensure that the hole to be of the correct size and that the cat flap will fit. You can use this method to determine the width of the opening by securing off a section of it and walking through it with your pet.
It is also advisable to measure the height of your feline from the floor to the lowest point on their belly. This will ensure that the flap is installed at a level that your cats are comfortable with. If it's too low, they might struggle to pass through and if it's too high, they might not be able to use the flap at all.
Generally you should aim to drill your holes at a 45 degree angle to the vertical surface. This will give the most secure and stable fixings for your cat flap installation [head to www.metooo.com]. Ideally you should use a spirit-level to help you with this but if the instructions that came with your kit for installing a cat flap don't have this then a straight edge will do the same job.
When putting the cat flap onto glass or UPVC window or door, it is best to employ an experienced glazier to complete this for you. The doors are typically toughened, and drilling can weaken their integrity and lead to them shattering. This could pose an security risk to your home.
It can be a challenge to install a cat flap inside brick walls, since drilling into a soft section of the wall can create problems for cables and pipes running through the property. This can lead expensive repairs, or even leaks or weather damage caused by outside.
Marking
Once you've measured your cat kitten to determine the appropriate size flap for them then you need to mark the location where the hole needs to go. Make use of your spirit level to ensure that it's flush with the door, 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 using pencil to mark the area where the hole must be cut.
Remember, if your cat flap bifold doors's flap is too low, it could make it difficult for your cat to climb in and out of the house, and if the flap is too high, they could be unable to see what's happening outside. It is best to try to make it as close to the height of your cat's belly as you can, to provide them with the greatest comfort and security.
It is crucial to avoid placing a cat flap too close to a wall frame. This could cause issues with draughts and damp. If you're not familiar with masonry work it's worthwhile to seek out professional assistance.
Then you need to prop the door open and show your cat flap step or kitten where to go. (It is helpful if someone is nearby helping them). Once they've made their way through the door then you can gradually begin to let them in and out at will.
It is important not to push your kitten or cat through the flap too quickly because this can cause them to become scared. They can easily become injured by the clunk or snap when it closes, and even more terrified if their tail gets caught in it as they attempt to get out. Cats are also known to return home to look for intruders, and leaving the door open can be dangerous. Your pet may be attacked by a cat flap fitting they know. Installing the door for your cat is best when your cat or kitten is able to use it.
Installation
It is essential to show your cat how to use the cat flap after it is installed. It will take some time but with patience and a few treats for encouragement, your cat will eventually learn how to utilize it. Install a lock on the cat flap if you want extra security, particularly during bad weather or when you're away from home.
The first thing you need to do is decide the location you'd like to put the cat flap inside 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 make your cat feel safer as they exit and enter the house and can also prevent other animals from entering your home.
Also, you should be aware of the height of your cat flap. This should be in line with the measurement of your cat's stomach to ensure that they can move through. You could also think about placing steps either side of the door to help your cat move through it with ease.
Once you have decided where you would like to put the cat flap Measure the door and mark it with the pencil. This will help you decide the location you need to cut. You will then need to cut a square into the door with an jigsaw. It is recommended to wear safety goggles and a mask for dust protection while doing this, as inhaling dust can be dangerous to your health. After cutting the square and trimmed, you must smooth the edges of the door to create smooth edges.
After you've finished sanding your door, you can replace the cat flap. It is recommended to put the cat flap in such that the lock (if there is one) is placed on the inside of the door. Make the screw holes, should there be any on the door. Then, carefully place the cat flap into the hole, making sure that it fits snuggly.