How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap
Many cat owners will recognize the feeling of being awakened up in the late at night to let their cat out but only to change their minds and want to go back in a few minutes. A cat flap is a solution to this issue.
It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat's microchip, allowing only authorized cats in and restrict access to all other cats. The flap can provide a variety of benefits, such as:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps keep your cat secure and safe by allowing it to move around whenever they like. They can stay in the dark if they want, which reduces their chances of being attacked by feral cats or other cats that may be out hunting in the late at night. They can be carriers of deadly diseases that your cat could be exposed to if they are not kept in the dark.
Conventional cat flaps can also allow other cats out and in - this is a major issue for pet owners who do not want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their homes as their own, eating their food or engaging in fights with them. A microchip cat door will keep out other cats by recognizing the unique microchip number of your cat, and then unlocking it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap can provide security when you are not home like when you go away for the evening or out on holiday. It links to a hub and app that monitors your pet's movements inside and out of the house and lets you control when they are allowed out and back in using a smart curfew feature that you can set. You can share the app with your family and friends so they can keep track of your pet while you are away.
A microchip cat flap with a magnetic or infrared collar key will add additional security by only allowing your cat to use the flap when their collar is within a specific distance of it. It is recommended to spend some time teaching 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 observe the outside world and smell it. In the meantime, by distributing a favorite toy or food item on either side of the flap you can praise and reward your cat each time it puts its head through. Once they're comfortable using the flap, slowly close it.
Safety
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market. A lot of them come with various features. It is important to select one that is the appropriate size for your pet so that it can enter and out easily. Choose a sturdy material that can withstand the elements, rain, and claws.
Some cat flaps can be locked in a range of ways to secure your home and deter burglars from getting in. You can lock them manually using a peg which fits 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 install, making them ideal for homes with multiple pets.
Microchip cat flaps are a great way to monitor your pet's movements inside the house, even if you're not present. Certain models come with smart technology, which allows you to track the movements of your pets through the door or window via an app on your smartphone.
This is useful when you're worried that your cat might wander off from your home or are concerned about them having access to animals that could be dangerous in the neighbourhood. You can check the status 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 that gives you more options to control who can access the door and when. This is especially useful for cats that are aggressive or older and may struggle with a traditional flap. This can also be used to stop your pets coming in when they're sick or if it's raining outside.
Other pet owners choose flaps that read a pet's microchip and only allow entry when it is registered, keeping other cats out. These systems are more expensive than standard cat flaps, but they are effective in keeping your neighbors' cats away from your home.
fitting a cat flap Repair My Windows And Doors can help to keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated. It can also decrease the number of accidents that happen inside the home. Many cats are also drawn by the scents of herbs like cat thyme (catmint) catnip, catnip, and clary sage. They can be put either on the other side of the flap if they are still hesitant.
It's simple to teach your cat how to use small hinged flaps that can be fixed to a door or window. Place treats at the other end of the flap, and encourage them to go through with their preferred food. It might be difficult to teach your cat the first time, but once you do it should become a habit.
Another alternative is to opt for a magnetic cat flap, which recognises your pet's microchip and lets it to be inserted. They're more expensive however, they function by using magnets around your pet's neck to unlock the flap. They are a great option for families with multiple cats to keep stray animals from entering the property.
Other models have different locking options that allow you to set it to open shut, closed, exit only or entrance only. These can be useful if you want to control the time your cat is allowed to go out and come in especially late at night and you're not at home. They can be helpful if you are away from home for an extended time and want to make sure your cat is safe.
You can also opt for a cat-flap with a smart design that is connected to your smartphone and controlled via an app. This allows you to control the entrance and exit of your cat with ease. These are not as easy to install as traditional cat flaps but they're safer for your pets and provide greater security. Some of these smart flaps have video monitoring and can be accessed from any location with an internet connection.
Training
It can take some time for a cat to become accustomed to going out on their own if they have not used a flap before. Based on their individual nature, some cats are naturally curious and be able to adjust to the new situation quickly. Others might require to be gently enthused and require time to learn how to open the flap by using a paw or a head. Observing them from the outside and inside will help you figure out what methods you can use to train them, but be aware that all cats are unique.
Rather than trying to force your cat through the flap, it's better to attempt to encourage them giving them treats. Place an item on the other 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 speaking in an ebullient, calm voice. This will aid your cat in learning to use the flap because they will be able to see that it brings them closer to the reward on the other end.
Once your cat starts to open the flap by licking or shaking their head, you can start in introducing them to the outdoors and let them enjoy their new freedom. However, it's important to watch your cat and ensure they are secure outdoors, as certain cats are vulnerable to the elements and other animals like cats in the area.
If you're unsure whether your cat is able to cope with the outdoors, you can lock your cat inside at night or leave the flap open to ensure they always have access to their litter box, puzzle feeders, and other toys. You can make sure that your cat gets the exercise and stimulation it needs and provide them with a way to escape any stressful situations that may arise in your home. They'll also be able to rest in the knowing that they can always return home whenever they wish to.