How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap
How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Many cat owners will recognise the feeling of getting up in the late at night to let their pets out and only to change their minds and come to go back in a few minutes. A cat flap can solve this issue.
It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat to allow only authorized cats in and deny access to others. The flap can provide a number benefits, including:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps keep your cat safe and secure by permitting it to move around whenever they want. They can remain in their home at night if prefer, which reduces the chance of being attacked by feral cats or other felines that might be out hunting at late at night. Many of these animals have diseases that can be fatal to your cat, and therefore keeping them inside at night will stop them from being bitten by them.
Conventional cat flaps also let other cats inside and out. This is a major issue for pet owners who do not want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their home as theirs, consuming their food, or getting into fights with them. A microchip cat flap will keep other cats out by recognizing your cat's unique microchip number and unlocking only for that, meaning your cat is the only one to access the door and exit.
A microchip cat flap could provide security when you are not home for instance, when you go away for the evening or on holiday. It connects to a hub and app that tracks your pet's movements in and out of the house and lets you control when they can come out and back in using a smart curfew feature that you can set. The app can be shared with family and friends, so they can keep track of your pet when you're away.
A microchip cat's flap that is fitted with an infrared or magnetic collar key will add additional security by allowing your cat to use the flap when their collar is within a certain distance of it. You should spend some time teaching your cat to use the flap. This is especially 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 poke their head through the hole by holding out a treat or favorite toy from either side of the flap and beg them to do so each time they do it. When they feel confident, you can slowly close the flap.
Safety
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market with a variety of features. You should select a cat-flap that's the proper size for your pet, so that it can enter and out without difficulty. You should also search for a hard-wearing material that can withstand paws, claws and rain.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in a variety of ways to secure your home and prevent burglars from getting in. You can lock them manually by using a peg that is inserted into the lock, or opt for microchip cat flaps that permit only registered cats to enter and exit the house. Cat flaps are easy to set up and simple to program, making them perfect for homes with multiple cats.
Microchip cat flaps are an excellent way to track your pet's movements in the house even when you're not there. Some models come with intelligent technology that allows you to monitor your pets' movements through the door or window by using an app that you can download on your phone.
This is useful if you are concerned that your cat could wander too far away from their home or have access to dangerous animals in the area. You can monitor the health of your pet through the app and remotely lock their cat flap in case they do get into trouble.
You can also opt for a four-way manual locking system that gives you greater control over who can access and exit the door. This is particularly useful when your cat is a bit more aggressive or if they are older and be unable to use an ordinary flap. This option can also be used to prevent your pets coming in when they're sick or it's raining outside.
Other pet owners more info opt for flaps that read a pet's microchip and only allow entry if the microchip is registered, thus keeping out other cats. These systems are more expensive than regular cat flaps, but they work well to keep your neighbors' cats away from your home.
Convenience
Unrestricted outside access can help to keep your cat mentally and physically engaged. It can also decrease the number of toileting accidents that happen within the home. Cats are also attracted by the scent of plants such as cat thyme or catnip (catmint) and clary Sage - these can be placed on either side of the flap to entice them to use it even if they remain uneasy.
It's easy to teach your cat how to utilize the small hinged flap that can be attached to a door or window. Place treats at the other end of the flap, and encourage them to walk through using their preferred food. It might be difficult to get your cat through the first time but once you've done it, you will be able to make it a habit.
Another option is to make use of a magnetic cat flap that detects the microchip of your pet and allows it to enter. These are more expensive, however, they function by using the magnet placed on the neck of your pet to unlock the flap. These are a great solution for households with multiple cats as they prevent stray cats entering the property.
Other models come with fitting a cat flap a variety of locking options which allow you to make it open, closed, exit only or entry only. They are helpful when you want to control the time your cat is in and out particularly at night, or when you're away. They are also useful if you're away from your home for long periods of time and need to ensure that your cat is safely indoors.
You can also select an intelligent cat flap that is connected to your smartphone and is controlled by an app, that means you can control your cat's entry and exit easily. These aren't as easy to install as traditional cat flaps, but they're safer for your pets and provide more peace of mind. Some of these cat flaps are equipped with video monitoring, and are accessible from any location with an Internet connection.
Training
If you have a cat or kitten who has never used a flap for their cat, it may take some time to get them used to the idea of going out on their own. Based on their nature, some are naturally curious and be able to adjust to the new situation quickly. Others may require being gently encouraged and need time to learn how to open the flap by using a paw or a head. Examining them from both the inside and out can help you work out the best methods to train them but keep in mind that every cat is unique.
Instead of forcing your cat to go through the flap, you should try to encourage them by giving them treats. Place treats on the opposite side of the flap (but not enough cat flap cost near me to see it) and then prop the flap open. Make your cat a call through the cat flap while using an upbeat, calm voice. This will help your cat learn how to utilize the flap since they will be able to see the way it gets them closer to the reward at the other end.
When your cat begins to open the flap with a lick or a head, you can start in introducing them to the outdoors and let them enjoy their new freedom. It's important to watch your cat to ensure they are secure outside. Some cats could be vulnerable to the weather and other animals, including neighbouring cats.
If check here you're not sure if your cat is able to handle the outdoor world it is possible to keep them inside at night or just leave the flap unlocked to ensure that they have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders and toys. You can ensure that your cat gets the exercise and enrichment it needs, but you can also give them a chance to escape any stressful situations that may arise in the home. They'll also feel secure knowing they'll be more info able to return home if they choose to.