Many cat owners can relate to the feeling of being awakened up in the late at night to let their cat out and only to change their minds and want to return within minutes. A cat flap is a solution to this issue.
It is operated by scanning your cat's microchip to allow access only to authorized cats and block access to other. There are a number of benefits to using a cat flap. These are:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps can help keep your cat safe and secure by letting them in and out whenever they want. They can stay in the dark if they want, which reduces the risk of being attacked by wild cats or other cats who might be hunting at late at night. Many of these animals carry diseases that can be fatal for your cat, and therefore keeping them inside at night will prevent them from being bitten by them.
Cats can get in and out via standard cat flaps. This is a concern for some pet owners, who don't want their neighbours' cats to harass their pets, mark their house as their territory and eat their food or engage in fights with their cats. A microchip cat door can keep out other cats by reading the unique microchip number of your cat and unlocking it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap may even provide peace of mind when you're away, such as when you are away for the evening or out on holiday. It's linked to an app and hub that tracks your pet's movements within and out of the house. You can also set a smart curfew to control when you allow them to enter and leave. You can also share your app access with family and friends so that they can keep an eye on your pets whilst you are away.
A microchip cat flap that has an infrared or magnetic collar key will provide an additional layer of security by allowing your cat to use the flap if their collar is within a specific distance of it. It is recommended to spend some 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 to let them be able to see the world outside and smell it. Encourage them to put their head through the hole by holding 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 they're comfortable using the flap, you can slowly close it.
Safety
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market. They all have different features. You should choose a cat-flap that is the right size for your pet's needs so it can be able to enter and exit easily. You should also search for a durable material that is able to withstand paws, claws and rain.
Some cat flaps can be locked in a range of ways to help secure your home and deter burglars from gaining access. You can lock them manually by using a peg that is inserted into the lock, or opt for microchip cat flaps that allow only registered cats to access and leave the home. These cat flaps can be easily programmed and are easy to install, making them ideal for homes with pets that are multiple.
The main benefit of microchip cat flaps is that they permit you to monitor your pet's movements around the house, even when you're away from home. Certain models come with smart technology, which allows you to monitor the movement of your pets through the door or window via an app on your smartphone.
This is useful if you're concerned that your cat may wander off from your home or you're worried about them having access to animals that could be dangerous in the neighbourhood. You can monitor the health of your pet through the app and remotely open their cat flap in case they are in trouble.
You can also choose a four-way manual locking system, which gives you more control over who can be allowed to enter and exit. This is especially useful if you have an aggressive cat or an older cat who may struggle with a standard flap. This method can be used to keep your pets from coming in when they are sick or when it is raining outside.
Certain pet owners choose to use flaps that scan a pet's chip, and allow it to enter only if the pet is registered. This prevents other cats. These systems can be more expensive than other cat flaps but they are an effective way to keep your neighbour's cats from getting into your home.
Convenience
Access to the outside world can help keep your cat physically and mentally stimulated. cat flap installation near me can also to reduce the number of accidents that happen within the home. Many cats are also attracted by the smells of herbs such as cat thyme (catmint), catnip and clary sage. These can be placed on either on the other side of the flap if they are still hesitant.
It's simple to teach your cat how to use a small hinged flap that can be affixed to a window or door. Place treats on the other side of the flap, and encourage them to walk through by using their favorite food. It can be difficult to make them go through it the first time but once they've done it start, they should continue to follow the habit.
A magnetic cat flap could also be utilized. It recognises the microchip of your pet and allows it to enter. They are more expensive, however they work by putting a magnet on your pet's neck to unlock the flap. These are a good option for households with multiple cats to stop pets that are stray from entering the property.
Other models provide various locking options. You can choose to lock it either closed or open and exit only or entry only. They can be helpful when you want to regulate your cat's movements when they go out and comes back particularly late at night and you're not at home. They are useful when you're away from home for a prolonged period of time and want to be sure that your cat is secure.
You can also choose a smart cat flap that connects to your smartphone and can be controlled by an app, which means you can manage your cat's entry and exit with ease. These cat flaps are more difficult to install than traditional cat flaps, however they provide more security and are more secure for your pets. Some of these smart cat flaps come with video monitoring, and can be accessed from anywhere with an Internet connection.
Training
It may take a while for a cat to become used to being outside by itself in the event that they've not used a flap before. Based on their nature, some are naturally curious and adjust to the new experience quickly. Others may require being gently enthused and require time to master how to open the flap with a paw or head. Examining your cat from the inside and from the outside will help you decide which 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. Place an item on the other 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 as they will see that it helps them get closer to the reward on the other end.
Once your cat begins to lick the flap or use their head to open it, you can let them out in the open and have fun in their new freedom. However, it's important to watch your cat and ensure they are secure in the outdoors since certain cats are vulnerable to the elements and other animals such as neighbouring cats.
If you're unsure whether your cat is able to handle the outside world it is possible to lock them in at night, or leave the flap open to ensure that they have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders, and toys. This will allow you to ensure that they get all the exercise and stimulation they require, but it also provides them with a means to escape any stressful situations around the home, like when you're cooking or cleaning. You'll also feel safe knowing that they can always return home if they choose to.
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