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How to install a cat flap?

Per fit the flap correctlyFirst you need to make sure you have the right tools:

• tape measure,
• level,
• drill,
• pencil,
• hacksaw,
• sand paper,
• screwdriver.

Place the flap against the wall where it will be installed and make sure it is straight. Then, trace the entire outline on the surface with a pencil. Do the same for the location of the screw holes.

Eliminate the portion of the wall (or door) according to your marks and smooth the edges with sandpaper. Then attach the flap and screw it firmly to the wall.

Caution, if this operation is done on a glass door, do not install the opening system yourself, unless you are a professional in this type of work since you could injure yourself. Call a specialist glazier.

Where to put the cat flap?

The cat flap can be installed on a door, window or in a wall. Position it at ground level so that the animal has no difficulty reaching it.

Choose to install the cat flap on a PVC or wooden door, materials that are easier to drill if you are not particularly skilled in housework. You can also opt for a concrete wall, but the job will be more complicated.

Before installing the cat flap in an apartment, so that your cat can enjoy the balcony, check that the condominium does not object to it. Some tenants may not like the opening showing on the facade of the building.

What type of cat flap to choose?

There are different types of cat flaps and you have to choose according to the size of the animal and its character. A fearful specimen, for example, will be afraid to use a noisy cat flap.

Manual cat flaps are the cheapest. They consist of a single door that allows the cat to enter or exit as he pleases. The electronic ones, on the other hand, recognize the cat’s collar and open only for the animal.

Finally, as regards the microchip cat flap, they are activated by the presence of the cat’s identification chip.

Where to buy a cat flap?

You can find a cat flap in the specialized shops. In this way, it will also be possible to benefit from the advice and opinions of expert sellers.

Buy onlineHowever, it will certainly allow for a wider choice: find the best cat flap without leaving your home and browse the buying guides and comparisons to get an idea. You can also consult the forums to get the opinion of other owners.

How to teach the cat to use the cat flap?

To get your cat used to the cat flap, there is no need to force it. He must realize for himself that the passage is completely safe and that there is no risk.

Start by leaving the flap open – this way your pet will see the outside and may want to venture through it. Once you’ve used the opening multiple times, show him how the door swings as he passes. That way, he won’t be afraid when the door closes behind him.

You can motivate him by placing a toy or treat on the other side of the opening to encourage him to reach for it!

At what height should the cat flap be placed?

Position the flap at the correct height, approximately 15cm off the ground. For most cat breeds, this is the average distance from the floor to the pet’s belly. For a large breed of cat (such as a Savannah or a Maine Coon), it is better to opt for a larger and custom-made cat flap.

It is important to position the flap at the right height from the ground so that the cat does not have to force himself out. When he is older he may have difficulty with his joints and will be less agile. Don’t rely on the size of your puppy cat: you have to take into account its adult morphology.

How does the microchip cat flap work?

A gattaiola con microchip detects the pet’s microchip and opens when it approaches. If she recognizes the cat, the chip reader unlocks the lock on the cat flap and Micio can enter the house.

Most microchip cat flaps have a button that you click to register your cat’s ID chip into the flap’s memory.

This security system prevents other animals from entering the house. If the cat does not have a microchip, it is possible to equip it with a small medallion that reproduces the RFID identification system.