How To Train Your Cat To Use A Cat Flap

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 want to return within minutes. A cat flap is a solution to this problem.

It works by scanning the microchip of your cat to allow only authorized cats to enter and restrict access to all other cats. There are many advantages of having a cat flap that are:

Peace of mind

Cat flaps can help keep your cat secure and safe by allowing them to go in and out at any time they wish. They can remain inside at night if they prefer, which reduces the risk of being attacked by feral cats or other felines that may be out hunting during the late at night. Many of these animals have diseases that could prove fatal to your cat, and therefore keeping them inside at night will stop them from catching them.

Conventional cat flaps can also allow other cats in and out - this is a major issue for pet owners who do not want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their home as their own, eating their food or engaging in fights with them. A microchip cat flap can keep other cats out by capturing your cat's unique microchip and unlocking only for that, meaning your cat is the only cat to be able to enter and exit.

A microchip cat flap can provide security even when you're not home, such as when you are going out for dinner or on holiday. It links to a hub and app, which tracks your pet's movements inside and out of your home and allows you to regulate when they can come in and out via a smart curfew feature that you can set. You can also share access to the app with friends and family so that they can keep an eye on your pet while you are away.

A microchip cat flap with an infrared or magnetic collar key will provide a further layer of security by only allowing your cat to use the flap if their collar is within a specific distance of it. It is important that you spend time training your cat to use the flap particularly if they aren't used to it. Start by opening the flap to let them see and sniff around. Encourage them to push their head through the hole by handing out a treat or favorite toy on either side of the flap. Then praise and reward them every time they do it. Once they're comfortable using the flap, you can gradually close it.

Safety

There are a myriad of cat flaps on the market and many of them come with different features. It is essential to select a cat flap that suits the dimensions of your pet to allow them to move between the two without difficulty. Look for a durable material that is able to withstand the elements of rain, paws and claws.

Certain cat flaps can be locked in a variety of ways to help secure your home and prevent burglars from gaining access. You can lock them manually using a peg which fits into the lock, or choose microchip cat flaps that allow only registered cats to enter and exit the house. These cat flaps are quick to set up and easy to programme, making them perfect for homes with several 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're away from home. Certain models are equipped with smart technology that enables you to track your pet's' movements through the windows or doors through an app on your smartphone.

This can be useful when you're worried that your cat might 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's health using the app and remotely lock their cat flap in bifold doors flap should they are in trouble.

You can also opt for a four-way manual locking system, which gives you more options to control who can enter and exit the room. This is especially helpful for cats that are aggressive or older and may struggle with the traditional flap. This option can also be used to stop your pets from coming in when they're sick or it's raining outside.

Some pet owners opt for flaps that read a pet's microchip and only allow entry if the microchip is registered, blocking other cats. These systems are more expensive than other cat flaps but they're a good method to stop your neighbor's cats from getting into your home.

Convenience

Unrestricted outside access can help to keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated. It can also reduce the number of accidents that occur inside the home. A lot of cats are also attracted by the scents of herbs such as cat thyme (catmint) as well as catnip and clary sage. These can be placed 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 replacement upvc door panel with cat flap or window cat flap. Place treats at the other end of the flap and encourage them to go through using their favorite food. It's not easy to master the process the first time, but when they've mastered it begin, they will be able to adopt the habit.

Another alternative is to opt for a magnetic cat flap, which recognises your pet's microchip and lets it to enter. They're more expensive however they work by putting the magnet on your pet's neck to open the flap. These are a great choice for families with multiple cats to keep pets that are stray from entering the property.

Other models come with a variety of locking options, allowing you to set it to open shut, closed, exit only or entry only. This is useful when you want to regulate your cat's movements when they go out and returns especially late at night or when you're not home. They may also be useful in situations where you're away from your home for extended periods of time and want to ensure your cat remains in a safe place.

You can also select a smart cat flap that connects to your smartphone and is operated by an app which means you can manage your cat's entry and exit easily. These are not as easy to install as traditional cat flaps however they are much more secure for your pet and provide greater security. Some of these cat flaps have video monitoring, and can be accessed from anywhere that has an internet connection.

Training

If you have a cat or kitten who has never used a cat flap cover for winter flap it may take some time to get them used to the idea of going outside on their own. Certain cats are naturally curious and will adjust to the new environment very quickly. Others may need to be gently encouraged and need time to learn to open the flap using a paw or head. Examining them from both the inside and out can help you determine what methods to use to train them however, keep in mind that every cat is unique.

Rather than trying to force your cat through the flap, it's better to try to encourage them offering them treats. Prop the flap open slightly (not enough to be able to see the other side) and then place a treat on the other side. Then, call them through the flap, keeping your voice positive and calm to make the training sessions more enjoyable on both of you and your cat. This will help your cat learn to use the flap because they will be able to see that it brings them closer to the reward on the other side.

When your cat starts to take a lick or use their head to open it, you are able to let them roam around the outside and enjoy their newfound freedom. It is essential to keep an eye on your cat to ensure that they are safe outside. Some cats could be vulnerable to the weather or other animals, including cats that live nearby.

If you're not sure if your cat can cope with the outdoor world it is possible to lock them in at night or just leave the flap unlocked to ensure they have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders and toys. This lets you make sure that they're getting all the exercise and stimulation they require, but also provides them with a means to escape any stressful situations around the house, such as when you're cooking or cleaning. They'll also feel secure knowing they can always return home if they want to.