Many cat owners know the feeling of being woken in the middle of the night to let out their cats and then to change their mind and want to return a few minutes later. A cat flap can help solve this problem.
It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat's microchip, allowing only authorized cats to enter and block access to other cats. A cat flap has a number of advantages, including:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps help keep your cat secure and safe by allowing it to come and go whenever they please. They can be in the dark if they want, which reduces the chance of being attacked by wild cats or other felines that might be out hunting in the late at night. Many of these animals are carriers of diseases that can be fatal to your cat, so keeping them inside at night will keep them from catching them.
Conventional cat flaps can also let other cats out and in - this is a major concern for some pet owners who don't wish to have neighbours' cats harassing their pets, marking their home as their territory, eating their food, or getting into fights with them. A microchip cat door can keep out other cats by identifying the unique microchip number of your cat, and then unlocking it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap can provide security when you're away for instance, when you are going out for dinner or going on holiday. It links to a hub and an app that tracks your pet's movements inside and out of the house and enables you to control when they are allowed in and out via an intelligent curfew that you can set. You can also share the app access with family members and friends to ensure that they monitor your pets while you're away.
A microchip cat-flap fitted with a magnetic collar key or infrared collar will add an additional layer of security to your cat's safety by only allowing them to use it if their collar is within certain distance. It is important that you spend time teaching your cat to use the flap, especially if they are not used to it. Start by opening the flap so that they can see and sniff the outside world. Encourage them to poke their head through the hole by handing the treat or their favorite toy on either side of the flap. Then beg them to do so each time they do so. Once they're comfortable using the flap, gradually close it.
Safety
There are many different cat flaps on the market. A lot of them come with various features. You should choose a cat-flap that is the proper size for your pet, so it can be able to enter and out without difficulty. You should also search for a hard-wearing material that is able to withstand paws, claws and rain.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in different ways to protect your home from burglars out. You can lock them manually by using a peg that fits into the lock, or opt for microchip cat flaps that permit only registered cats to enter and exit the house. These cat flaps can be easily programmed and are easy to install, making them perfect for homes with multiple pets.
Microchip cat flap s are a great method to track your pet's movement within the home even if you're not present. Certain models come with smart technology, which allows you to monitor the movements of your pets from the door or window by using an app on your phone.
This is beneficial in the event that you are worried that your cat might wander away from home or if they have access to dangerous animals in the neighbourhood. You can remotely open the flap for your cat and monitor your pet's health via the app.
You can also choose a four-way manual locking system, which gives you more control over who is able to be allowed to enter and exit. This is especially useful for those with an aggressive cat or a cat with a long history that might be unable to use a traditional flap. This method can be used to prevent your pets from coming in when they are sick or it is raining outside.
Some pet owners choose flaps that scan the pet's chip and only let it in when the pet is registered. This keeps out other cats. These systems are more expensive than other flaps for cats, but they are an effective way to prevent your neighbour's cats getting into your house.
Convenience
Access to the outdoors without restrictions can help keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated. It also helps reduce the number of toileting accidents that happen within the home. Many cats are also enticed by the smell of plants like cat thyme, catnip (catmint) and clary sage. These can be placed on either side of the flap to help encourage them to use it even when they are still uneasy.
It's easy to teach your cat to utilize small hinged flaps that can be attached to a door or window. Place treats on the other side of the flap, and encourage them to walk through with their favorite food. It can be difficult to get your cat through the first time but once you've done it, you will be able to make it a habit.
A magnetic cat flap can also be utilized. It recognizes the microchip of your pet and allows it access to. They are more expensive, however they work by putting an electronic device attached to the collar of your pet to open the flap and grant access to your home. These are a great choice for multi-cat households to prevent pets that are stray from entering the property.
Other models provide different locking options. You can choose to lock it open or close with an exit only, or entry only. They are helpful if you need to control the time your cat comes and goes particularly at night or if you're not home. These can be useful in situations where you're away from home for an extended time and want to make sure that your cat is secure.
You can also choose a cat flap that is connected to your smartphone and can be operated by an app which means you can control your cat's entry and exit without difficulty. These aren't as easy to install as traditional cat flaps however they are much safer for your pets and provide more peace of mind. Some of these cat flaps are equipped with video monitoring and can be accessed from anywhere connected to the Internet.
Training
It can take time for a cat to become comfortable with going outdoors on its own, especially if they have not used a flap before. Certain cats are naturally curious, and will adapt to the new experience quickly. Others may require being gentle and encouragable, and will need time to learn how to open the flap by using a paw or a head. Observing your cat from both the inside and outside will help you decide on the best training methods to use. However, remember that every cat is unique.
Instead of yelling your cat to open the flap, try to encourage them by giving them treats. Open the flap a little (not enough to be able to see the other side) and place an item on the opposite side, then call them through the flap, keeping your voice positive and calm to make the training sessions easier for both you and your cat. This will aid your cat in learning to use the flap because they will be able to see the way it gets them closer to the reward at the other end.
When your cat begins to lick the flap or use their head to open it, you are able to let them explore the outdoors and enjoy their newfound freedom. It is important to keep an eye on your cat and ensure they are secure in the outdoors since certain cats are vulnerable to the elements and other animals, such as the cats in the area.
If you're not sure if your cat is able to handle the outside world you can always put them in a cage at night, or leave the flap unlocked to ensure that they have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders, and toys. You can make sure that your cat is getting the exercise and stimulation it requires, but you can also give them a way to escape any stressful situations that could occur in the home. They will also be secure knowing that they are able to return home whenever they want to.