Many cat owners are familiar with the feeling of being woken in the middle night to let out their cats, only to have them change their minds and decide to go back inside minutes later. A cat flap can help solve this issue.
It works by scanning your cat's microchip to allow access only to authorized cats, and denying access to others. A cat flap offers number benefits, including:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps are a great way to keep your cat safe and secure by letting them in and out at any time they wish. If they prefer remain inside, they can do so at the night. This will decrease the chance of being attacked by other cats or feral cats that might be hunting at night. Many of these animals have diseases that could prove fatal for your cat and so keeping them in at night will prevent them from catching them.
Conventional cat flaps can also let other cats in and out - this is a major issue for some pet owners who do not want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their house as their territory, eating their food or getting into fights with them. A microchip cat door can protect your cat from other cats by recognizing the unique microchip number of your cat and allowing it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap could even give you peace of mind when you are not home, such as when you go away for the evening or out on holiday. It is linked to an app and hub that track your pet's movements within and outside the house. You can also create a smart curfew that will restrict when they are allowed to leave and enter. You can also share access to the app with friends and family so that they can monitor your pets whilst you are away.
A microchip cat-flap with a magnetic collar key or infrared collar can add an extra layer of security to your cat's security by only the ability to use it when their collar is within certain distance. It is recommended to spend some time training your cat how to use the flap. This is especially important if it's not familiar with using one. Begin by leaving the flap wide open so they can observe the outside world and smell it. Holding out a favourite toy or food item from either side of the flap and give your cat praise and a reward each time it puts its head through. Once they feel confident then you can gradually close the flap.
Safety
There are many cat flaps on the market, with many offering different features. It is important to select a cat-flap that's the appropriate size for your pet's needs so that it can enter and out without difficulty. You should also look for a durable product that can withstand paws claws, and rain.
Some cat flaps are lockable in various ways to protect your home and keep burglars out. You can lock them manually using a peg which fits into the lock, or choose microchip-encoded cat doors that allow registered cats to enter the house. The cat flaps are simple to set up and simple to programme, making them ideal for homes with multiple cats.
The main benefit of microchip cat flaps is that they permit you to track your pet's movements around the house even when you are away from home. Some models are equipped with smart technology, which lets you monitor the movements of your pets from the door or window via an app on your smartphone.
This is read more a great option in case you're worried that your cat may wander too far from home or you're concerned about them having access to animals that could be dangerous in the neighbourhood. You can remotely lock the cat flap and monitor your pet's health via the app.
You can also opt for the four-way manual locking system that offers more options to control who can go in and out. This is particularly useful for those with an aggressive cat or an older cat that might be unable to use a traditional flap. This option can be used to keep your pets from entering your home when they are sick or it is raining outside.
Other pet owners opt for flaps that read a pet's microchip and only allow entry if it is registered, thereby blocking other cats. These systems can be more expensive than other cat flaps but they are an effective way to prevent your neighbour's cats from getting into your home.
Convenience
Being able to access the outside world can help keep your cat physically and mentally active. It also helps reduce the number of accidents that take place within the home. Many cats are also attracted by the scents of herbs like cat thyme (catmint), catnip and clary sage. get more info They can be put either on the other side of the flap if they are still hesitant.
It's simple to teach your cat to make use of small hinged flaps that can be affixed to a door or window. Place treats on the other side of the flap and encourage them to go through with their favorite food. It might be difficult to make your cat go through the first time however once you've mastered it, you will be able to make it a habit.
A magnetic cat flap could also be utilized. It recognizes the microchip of your pet and allows it to access. They are more expensive, however they work by putting the magnet placed on the neck of your pet to unlock the flap. These are a good option for households with multiple cats to stop unwanted animals from entering your property.
Other models provide different locking options. You can choose to lock it open or close, exit only, or entry only. They are helpful when you want to control the time your cat comes and goes particularly at night, or when you're away. They can also be helpful when you are away from your home for extended periods of time and want to ensure that your cat is safe inside.
You can also opt for a smart cat flap that is connected to your smartphone and is operated by an app which means you can manage your cat's entry and exit without difficulty. These are not as easy to install as traditional cat flaps, however they are much more secure for your pet and provide more security. Some of these flaps come with video monitoring and are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
Training
It can take some time for a cat to become used to being outdoors on its own, especially even if click here they've not used a flap before. Based on their nature, some are naturally curious and be able to adjust to the new situation quickly. Certain cats need to be gently pushed and given time to learn to open the flap using their paws or head. Watching your cat from both the inside and the outside will help you decide on the best training methods to employ. But remember that every cat is unique.
Rather than trying to force your cat through the flap, attempt to encourage them offering them treats. Place a treat on the opposite side of the flap (but not enough to see it) and then prop the flap open. Call your cat through the flap, while speaking in an ebullient, calm voice. This will help your cat learn how check here to use the flap because they will see that it brings them closer to the reward on the other side.
Once your cat begins to take a lick or use their head to open it, you are able to let them roam around the outside and have fun in their new freedom. However, it's important to keep an eye on your cat and make sure they are safe outdoors as some cats can be vulnerable to the elements as well as other animals such as cats in the area.
If you're unsure whether your cat is able to handle the outdoors it is possible to lock them in at night, or leave the flap open so that they have constant access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders and toys. You can make sure that your cat is getting the exercise and stimulation it requires however, you should also give them a chance to escape any stressful situations that may arise in the home. They will also be able to rest in the knowing that they can always website return home if they'd like to.