Tips for Installing Cat Flaps

Cat flaps give felines the freedom to enter and exit the home without asking for human help. Modern cat flaps are much more sophisticated than the old-fashioned types that were basically just pieces of plastic over a hole in the door. However, installing cat flaps takes a bit more care than simply fastening flaps to either side of the wall or door. Ensure you have a tight seal around the flap to keep moisture from building up in the frame area.

What to Consider with Cat Flaps

When selecting a pet flap, choose a design that provides liners. These handy liners span any thickness in between the flap frames and the timber door. The flap should have a snug fit.

Minimize the potential for unwanted cats to enter your home by purchasing flaps that are electromagnetic or multimagnetic and only allow the family cat’s inside. Unwanted, curious cats in the neighborhood can’t access the flap, because the animal will have no collar tag / magnet.

More sophisticated cat flaps are operated by a microchip located under the cat’s skin. The microchip identifies the animal as having permission and allows the animal to enter the home quickly.

Cat Flap Training 

If the cat or kitten has never used a flap before, it may not know how to use the flap. Sometimes even the sound a flap makes can frighten a timid pet. One good method to getting your cat to use the door flap is to prop the flap open temporarily so that it won’t touch the cat as he or she goes through. Once the cat becomes familiar with using the flap, you can remove the prop. You could also get someone to go outside and playfully encourage the cat to go outside.

When it comes to feline flaps, they aren’t one size fits all. Take your time and choose the flap that best suits your pet’s needs.