Many cat owners are familiar with the feeling of getting up in the middle night to let out their cats and then to change their mind and want to go back inside minutes later. A cat flap can help solve this problem.
It is operated by scanning your cat's microchip, allowing access to only authorized cats and block access to other. A cat flap has a variety of benefits, such as:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps can help keep your cat safe and secure by allowing them to go in and out whenever they want. They can remain in the dark if they wish, which will reduce the chance of being attacked by wild cats or other cats that might be out hunting at night. They can be carriers of deadly diseases that your cat might contract if out at night.
Conventional cat flaps can also allow other cats out and in - this is a major issue for some pet owners who do not want their neighbors' cats to harass their pets, marking their house as their territory, eating their food or engaging in fights with them. A microchip cat flap will keep other cats out by reading your cat's unique microchip and only unlocking for that, meaning your cat is the only cat to be able to enter and exit.
A microchip cat flap could provide security when you are not home, such as when you go away for the evening or on holiday. It's connected to an app and hub that track your pet's movements inside and outside the house. You can also create a smart curfew that will restrict when they are allowed to enter and leave. The app can be shared with family and friends so they can keep track of your pets while you're away.
A microchip cat flap with an infrared or magnetic collar key will add additional security by allowing only your cat to use the flap if their collar is within a specific distance from it. It is important to spend time training your cat how to use the flap. This is particularly important if it's not familiar with using one. Begin by leaving the flap wide open so they can be able to see the world outside and smell it. Holding out a favourite toy or a treat from either side of flap you can praise and reward your cat each time it puts its head through. When they feel confident then you can gradually close the flap.
Safety
There are many cat flaps on the market and many of them come with different features. You should choose a cat-flap that's the proper size for your pet's needs so it can be able to enter and exit easily. Look for a durable material that can withstand the elements, rain, and claws.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in a variety of ways to secure your home and prevent burglars from gaining access. You can lock them manually by using a peg which fits into the lock or opt for microchip cat doors that allow registered cats to enter your home. Cat flaps can be easily programmed and are easy to set up, which makes them ideal for homes with pets that are multiple.
Microchip cat flaps are a great method to track your pet's movement within the home even if you're not present. Some models have intelligent technology that allows you to monitor your pets' movements as they walk through the door or window using an app on your smartphone.
This is a great option if you're concerned that your cat could wander off from your home or are concerned about their access to animals that could be dangerous in the neighbourhood. You can monitor the health of your pet's health using the app and remotely unlock their cat flap in case they are in trouble.
You can also opt for the four-way manual locking system, which gives you more options to decide who can go in and out. This is particularly useful when you have a naive cat or a cat with a long history that may struggle with a standard flap. This method can be used to deter your pets from coming in if they're unwell or it's raining outside.
Certain pet owners choose to use flaps that scan a pet's chip, and allow entry if the pet is registered. This is to keep out other cats. These systems can be more expensive than other cat flaps but they are an effective method to stop your neighbor's cats getting into your house.
Convenience
Access to the outside world can help keep your cat read more physically and mentally active. It can also reduce the number of toileting accidents that happen inside the home. Many cats are also drawn by the smells of herbs like cat thyme (catmint), catnip and clary sage. These can be placed either side of the flap if they are still unsure.
It's simple to teach your cat how to utilize the small hinged flap that can be affixed to a window or door. Place treats at the other end of the flap and encourage them to go through by using their preferred food. It can be difficult to master the process the first time, but once they do, they should take up the habit.
Another option is to make use of magnetic cat flaps, that recognizes the microchip of your pet and allows it in. They're more expensive however, they function by using magnets on your pet's neck to unlock the flap. These are a great solution for households with multiple cats as they stop stray cats from entering your property.
Other models offer various locking options. You can choose to lock it open or close, exit only, or entrance only. This is useful if you want to control your cat's movements when they go out and comes back, especially if it's late at night and you're not at home. They can be helpful in situations where you're away from home for an extended time and want to make sure your cat is safe.
You can also choose an intelligent cat-flap that's connected to your smartphone, and controlled via an app. This allows you to manage the access and exit of your cat in a matter of minutes. These aren't as easy to install as traditional cat flaps but they're much safer for your pets and provide greater security. Some of these flaps even include video monitoring and can be accessed from anywhere connected to the internet.
Training
It may take a while for a cat to become used more info to being outdoors on its own, especially if they have not used a flap before. Based on their individual personality, some are naturally curious and will adjust to the new experience quickly. Some cats will need to be gently encouraged and taught to open the flap using their paws or heads. Observing them from the inside and outside can help you determine the best methods to train them however, keep in mind that all cats are unique.
Instead of yelling at your cat to go through the flap, you should try to encourage them with treats. Prop the flap open just a bit (not enough to be able to see the other side) and then place treats on the other side. Then, call them through the cat flap, keeping your voice positive and calm to make the training sessions easier on both you and your cat. This will help your cat learn how to go through the flap and notice that it brings them closer to the reward on the opposite side of the flap.
When your cat starts to lick the flap or use their head to open it, you can let them explore the outdoors and enjoy their newfound freedom. It's important to watch your cat to ensure they are read more safe outside. Certain cats are vulnerable to the weather and other animals, including neighboring cats.
If you're unsure if your cat is able to handle the outdoor world, you could always keep them inside at night or just leave the flap open to ensure they have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders and toys. You can make more info sure that your cat gets the exercise and stimulation it requires, but you can also give them a chance here to escape any stressful situations that might occur in the home. They will also be secure knowing that they are able to return home whenever they wish to.