Many cat owners will recognize the feeling of getting up in the middle of the night to let their cat out, only for them to change their minds and decide to go to go back in a few minutes. A cat flap solves this issue.
It works by scanning your cat's microchip to allow access to only authorized cats and deny others access. A cat flap has a number benefits, including:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps keep your cat safe and secure by allowing it to move around whenever they like. They can stay inside at night if they prefer, which reduces the risk of being attacked by wild cats or other felines that may be out hunting during the late at night. These animals can carry deadly diseases that your cat might catch if they are not kept in the dark.
Cats are able to enter and exit via standard cat flaps. This can be a problem for some pet owners, who don't want their neighbours cat to bother their pets, mark their home as territory and eat their food or engage in fights with their cats. A microchip cat flap will keep other cats out by recognizing your cat's unique microchip number and unlocking only for 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 out for the evening or going on holiday. It links to a hub and an app, which tracks your pet's movements into and out of the house and lets you control the time they are allowed to come out and in via a smart curfew feature that you set. The app can be shared with your family and friends so they can keep track of your pet while you are away.
A microchip cat-flap fitted with magnetic collar keys or an infrared collar can add an extra layer of protection to your cat's security by only the ability to use it when their collar is within certain distance. It is essential to spend time teaching your cat to use the flap especially if they are not familiar with it. Begin by letting the flap open so that they can view and sniff the outside world. Encourage them to put their head through the hole by handing out a treat or favourite toy from either side of the flap. You can beg them to do so each when they do this. Once This Web site with the flap, you can gradually close it.
Safety
There are many different cat flaps that are available on the market. Many of them offer various features. You should select a cat-flap that's the appropriate size for your pet so that it can enter and out easily. Find a sturdy fabric that can withstand the elements, rain, and claws.
Certain cat flaps are lockable in various ways to secure your home and keep burglars out. You can lock them manually by using a peg that is inserted into the lock, or choose microchip cat flaps that allow only registered cats to access and leave the home. These cat flaps are quick to set up and simple to program, which makes them ideal for homes with multiple cats.
This Web site of microchip cat flaps is that they allow you to track your pet's movements around the house, even when you're away from home. Certain models are equipped with smart technology that allows you to monitor your pets' movements through the window or door by using an app on your phone.
This can be useful if you're concerned that your cat may wander away from home or you're worried about them having access to animals that could be dangerous in the neighbourhood. You can track the location of your pet's health using the app and remotely unlock their cat flap should they do get into trouble.
You can also opt for a four-way manual locking mechanism that gives you greater control over who can access and exit the door. This is particularly useful if you have an aggressive cat or an older cat who may struggle with a standard flap. This method can be used to stop your pet from entering your home when they are sick or if it's raining outside.
Other pet owners choose flaps that read the microchip of their pet and only allow entry if it is registered, thereby blocking other cats. These systems can be more expensive than other flaps for cats, but they're a good way to keep your neighbour's cats from getting into your home.
Convenience
Access to the outdoors without restrictions can help keep your cat mentally and physically engaged. It also helps reduce the number of accidents that happen within the home. Many cats are also drawn to the scents of plants like cat thyme (catmint), catnip and clary sage. They can be put on either side of the flap if they are still hesitant.
It's easy to teach your cat how to utilize the small hinged flap that can be affixed to a window or door. Place treats on the other end of the flap and encourage them to walk through by using their favorite food. It may 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.
Another alternative is to opt for a magnetic cat flap which recognises your pet's microchip and lets it to enter. They are more expensive, but work by using an electronic device attached to the collar of your pet to open the flap and grant it access to your home. These are a great solution for households with multiple cats as they keep out stray cats out of the property.
Other models provide various locking options. You can set it to open or closed with an exit only, or entry only. These are great if you need to control the frequency at which your cat comes and goes particularly at night or if you're not home. They can also be helpful when you are away from your home for a long period of time and you need to ensure that your cat stays safe inside.
You can also opt for a smart cat-flap that is connected to your smartphone and controlled via an app. This allows you to control the entry and exit of your cat easily. These cat flaps are more difficult to install than traditional cat flaps, however they provide greater peace of mind and are safer for your pet. Some of these smart flaps even come with video monitoring and can be accessed from any location with an internet connection.
Training
If you have a cat or kitten who has not used a cat flap before, it could take a while for them to get accustomed to the idea of going outside on their own. Certain cats are naturally curious and will adjust to the new situation very quickly. Others may require being gentle and encouragable, and will need time to master how to open the flap using a paw or head. Watching cat flap install from the inside and out can help you determine the best methods to train them but keep in mind that all cats are unique.
Rather than trying to push your cat through the flap, try and encourage them by giving them treats. Place a treat on the opposite side of the flap (but not enough to see it) and then prop the flap open. Your cat should be called through the cat flap while using an upbeat, calm voice. This will help your cat learn to use the flap because they will be able to see the way it gets them closer to the reward at the other side.
Once your cat starts to push the flap open with a lick or a head, you can begin in introducing them to the outdoor world and let them enjoy their new freedom. It is essential to keep an eye on your cat to ensure that they are safe out there. Some cats may be susceptible to weather conditions and other animals, such as neighboring cats.
If you're not sure whether your cat will be capable of surviving the outdoors, you can keep your cat inside at night or leave the flap open so that they always have access to their litter box, puzzle feeders, and other toys. You can ensure that your cat is getting the exercise and stimulation it needs, but you can also give them a way to escape any stressful situations that may arise in your home. They'll also feel secure knowing they'll always be able to return home if they want to.