Many cat owners can relate to the feeling of being awakened up in the middle of the night to let their pets out, only for them to change their minds and come to return within minutes. A cat flap can help solve this issue.
It is operated by scanning your cat's microchip to allow access to only authorized cats, and denying access to others. A cat flap offers number of advantages, including:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps help to keep your cat secure and safe by letting them in and out as they please. If they choose to stay inside, they are able to do so at night. This will reduce the chances of them being attacked by other cats or feral cats that may be out hunting late in the night. Many of these animals carry diseases that could be fatal for your cat and therefore keeping them inside at night will keep them from getting sick.
Conventional cat flaps can also allow other cats out and in - this is a big worry for some pet owners who do not wish to have neighbours' cats harassing their pets, marking their house as their territory, eating their food or engaging in fights with them. A microchip cat door can protect your cat from other cats by reading the unique microchip number of your cat and unlocking it only for your cat.
It can also give you peace of mind if you're away from home, for example when you are to a vacation spot or go out for the night. It's linked to an app and hub that monitors your pet's movements within and outside the house. You can also create a smart curfew that will control when you allow them to leave and enter. You can also share the app access with friends and family to ensure that they keep an eye on your pet while you are away.
A microchip cat's flap that is fitted with a magnetic or infrared collar key will add a further layer of security by allowing only your cat to use the flap only when their collar is within a specific distance from it. You should spend some time training your cat how to use the flap. This is especially important if it's not familiar with using one. Start by leaving the flap wide open so they can see the outside world and smell it. Encourage them to poke their head through the hole by handing the treat or their favorite toy on either side of the flap. You can praise and reward them every time they do so. Once they are confident using the flap, slowly close it.
Safety
There are a variety of cat flaps available, with many offering different features. It is essential to select the right cat flap for the size of your pet, to allow them to move between the two without difficulty. Look for a durable material that can withstand rain, paws and claws.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in different ways to protect your home and keep burglars out. You can lock them manually using a peg that is inserted into the lock, or opt for microchip cat flaps that allow only registered cats to enter and exit the house. These cat flaps can be easily programmed and are easy to set up, making them ideal for homes with multiple pets.
Microchip cat flaps are an excellent way to track your pet's movements within the home even if you're not present. Certain models come with smart technology that allows you to track the movements of your pets from the door or window by via an app on your smartphone.
This is useful if you're concerned that your cat might wander away from home or you're concerned about them having access to animals that could be dangerous in the neighbourhood. You can remotely lock the flap on your cat's door and check your pet's health via the app.
You can also select a four-way manual locking mechanism that gives you greater control over who is able to be allowed to enter and exit. This is particularly useful for those with an aggressive cat or an older cat who may struggle with a standard flap. This method can also be used to prevent your pets from coming in when they're sick or if it's raining outside.
Other pet owners choose flaps that read the microchip of their pet and only allow entry when it is registered, keeping out other cats. These systems are more expensive than other cat flaps however they are a great way to keep your neighbour's cats from getting into your home.
Convenience
Unrestricted outside access can help to keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated. It can also help reduce the amount of accidents that take place within the home. A lot of cats are also attracted to the scents of plants like cat thyme (catmint) as well as catnip and clary sage. They can be put on either the side of the flap in case they are still unsure.
It's simple to teach your cat to make use of a 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 walk through using their favorite food. It might be difficult to make your cat go through the first time however once you've mastered it, the practice will become habitual.
Another option is to make use of magnetic cat flaps, which recognises the microchip of your pet and allows it in. They're more expensive, however they work by putting a magnetic device on the collar of your pet to open the flap, granting access to your home. These are a great choice for families with multiple cats to keep unwanted animals from entering your property.
Other models provide various locking options. get more info You can choose to lock it open or close and exit only or entry only. These are great when you want to control the time your cat is in and out, especially at night or when you're away. They are also useful in situations where you're away from home for extended periods of time and need to ensure your cat remains safe inside.
You can also select an intelligent cat-flap that's connected to your smartphone, and controlled via an app. This lets you manage the access and exit of your cat easily. These flaps are more difficult to install than traditional cat flaps, however they provide more peace of mind and are more secure for your pet. Some of these cat flaps have video monitoring and are accessible from any location that has an internet website connection.
Training
It can take time for a cat's body to become comfortable with going out on their own even if they've not used a flap before. Based on their personality, some are naturally curious and adjust to the new experience quickly. Some cats will need to be gently urged and given time to learn to open the flap with their paws or head. Examining your cat from the inside and outside will help you decide which training methods to use. Remember that every cat is unique.
Instead of trying to push your cat through the flap, try and encourage them by giving them treats. Place treats on the opposite side of the flap (but not enough to see it) and then open the flap. Make your cat a call through the flap, while speaking in an ebullient, calm voice. This will help your cat learn how to use the flap because they will realize the way it gets them closer to the reward on the other end.
When your cat begins to push the flap open with a lick or a head, you can start introduction to the outdoor environment and let them experience their new freedom. But, it's crucial to watch your cat and ensure they are secure in the outdoors since certain cats are susceptible to the elements as well as other animals, such as the cats in the area.
If you're not sure whether your cat will be in a position to handle the outdoors, you can either lock them inside at night or leave the flap open so website they always have click here access to their litter box, puzzle feeders, and toys. You can ensure that your cat is getting the exercise and stimulation it requires, but you can also give them a chance to escape any stressful situations that could arise in your home. They will also be able to rest in the knowing that read more they will be able to return home if they wish to.