It might seem daunting to set up a cat flap however, with the proper instructions, it's not too difficult. Determine how high you would like the flap to be (normally it's at the belly height). Note this on your door, and use the template included as a guide when drilling.
If you have a kitten who is still a baby and you want to keep the door open, gently prop it slightly open and allow it to pass through. Reward it each time it goes through.
Measure the Door
A cat flap is a great method to let your pet come and go into and out of your home as it wants. This can help keep your cat in good health as it will ensure it is exercising regularly and will also allow it to go back inside if it is stranded outside in bad weather. It also can reduce the amount of time you have to allow it out or in and can also keep your home safe by allowing you to know when it's been out.
It is crucial that the cat flap is correctly fitted to prevent your pet from escaping through it or be pushed through by other animals (e.g. dogs). It is essential to measure your pet's belly height and the entrance to your home to make sure that the flap is at the right height. If your cat is longer or taller than the average, you can alter the position of the flap by moving it up or down by a tiny amount.
The next step is to use a spirit level to mark the center of the door. This is where you'll install the flap. Using the marking as a guideline, you can use a jigsaw and cut out the shape of the flap within the door. Once Full Record have cut out the space, sand down the edges of the door to smooth the surfaces. Then drill any fixing holes that are required.
The process of installing a cat flap isn't as difficult as you may believe and it shouldn't take more than two hours for the entire task from start to the end. However, the process may be slightly more complicated if you need to fit it into a uPVC or composite door because these doors come in an array of thicknesses, which affect how the holes are cut and the type of door they are fixed into. We always suggest that you call an expert for your first time working with glass.
Measure Your Cat
You will not have to spend hours of listening to the cat's meows to be allowed in or out. This is especially helpful if your cat is trapped inside in all weathers while you are at work.
If you're planning to put a cat flap in your door, it is crucial that you determine the size of your cat prior to beginning the task. While it may seem to be a simple task, it is essential to get the measurement right or your cat will find it very difficult to use.
Firstly, make sure your cat is calm and not stressed prior to taking the measurements. You'll need to put your cat in a position that they are unable to move. Also, make sure that the measuring tape is straight and not bent against the body. Holding the ruler or measuring tape against their body from their head to the tip of their tail can allow you to get an exact measurement.
Once you have the measurement of your cat, it's time to take a look at the door and decide where to put the flap. Position the flap at the level of your cat's belly. This will allow them to pass through the door with minimal effort. This will also prevent the flap from making quite a lot of noise when it opens and closes.
You should also consider the thickness and structure of the uPVC door or composite. While all timber doors have a similar thickness to them, uPVC or composite doors may differ in their overall design. This can make fitting the flap for your cat more difficult as you must ensure that the hole is the proper size.
You can also use the template included in the instructions to mark the position of the opening on the door. This will enable you to determine where the hole must be located and make sure that the template is positioned properly on the door. It is also beneficial to utilize a spirit-level to make sure that the template is perfectly against the door.
Cut the Flap
You'll need to cut a hole in the door panel for your cat flap prior to you can install it. This can be a daunting task and it is recommended that you hire a professional to assist you if you do not have the knowledge or skills. You can also refer to the instructions included with the kit to discover how to do it properly.
To do this, you have to determine the height of your cat or kitten's belly. Use this as a reference point. A good rule of thumb is to set the flap around 10-15 centimeters off the ground, as this is the typical belly height for cats. This will allow your cat to move through the flap with ease and make it more difficult for other cats or naughty neighbours to enter or exit.
Once you've determined where the cat flap should be located, mark the location on the door using pencil. If your kit has the template, place it over the door. Utilize the markings on the template to drill holes in each corner. Then, you should be able to cut the template shape and replace it with the flap for cats.
You can install the cat flap yourself in a wood or uPVC door if you are confident using the use of a jigsaw. Make sure you don't cut through any of the door's mullions, or vertical rails. You can use a Jigsaw to cut your panel into a square or circle depending on the way you want it. Be patient, and don't make the jigsaw cut faster.
Once the hole is cut, carefully place your cat flap in its new home. Make sure it's solidly secured. If the flap has screw caps put them on the protruding bolts. Once the screws have been installed smooth the edges and seal any gaps. This will stop draughts from entering your home.
Place the Flap
If you have a standard cat flap, you can help your pet to use it by placing a small amount cat food on the outside of the door. You can also push the cat using a stick or your hand. Once your pet is used to moving through the flap, it will be able to move in and out as it wishes and you should be able to let it out or in without having to be there to open the door for it throughout the day (and potentially in any weather).
It is possible to put an animal flap into the UPVC doors or glass door, however it may not be as easy as installing one in a wooden external door. This is due to the fact that UPVC doors and some types of glass doors do not have a uniform thickness. This could have a significant impact on how you cut the opening for the flap and could affect the way your flap is fitted correctly after it has been installed.
The mounting kit may contain a template that outlines the best places to drill holes. If the kit doesn't include a template you can make one yourself. It's important to not press the jigsaw too in order to cut, so it doesn't make a larger than necessary hole in your door.
Some cat flaps come in circular designs, which are more difficult to put in. If you have a circular flap, make sure the hole is in the correct place on your door. If not, your cat may not be able to access it, and might be locked outside for the entire day (or night).
Certain cat flaps have locks that let you determine when your cat enters and leaves. These are useful for pets who are afraid of leaving in the dark or coming back in the dark. They can also be useful for those who work all day. The lock can be turned on for entry or exit and some are locked in both directions, permitting you to close the door completely. This is especially beneficial for older or ill cats who aren't willing to go out in rainy weather.