How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap
Many cat owners can relate to the feeling of getting up in the late at night to let their cat out and only to change their minds and come to go back in a few minutes. A cat flap could solve this problem.
It is operated by scanning your cat's microchip to allow access to only authorized cats and block access to other. There are a number of advantages of using a cat flap. These include:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps keep your cat safe and secure by allowing it to come and go whenever they please. If they prefer remain inside, they can do so at night. This reduces the chances of them being attacked by other cats or wild cats who may be out hunting late at late at night. Many of these animals are carriers of diseases that can be fatal for your cat and so keeping them in at night will keep them from catching them.
Cats can enter and exit via standard cat flaps. This can be a problem for some pet owners, who don't want neighbours cats to annoy their pets, mark their homes as a territory and eat their food or engage in fights with their cats. A microchip cat flap can keep other cats out by reading your cat's unique microchip and unlocking only for that, meaning your cat is the only one who can access the door and exit.
A microchip cat flap could provide security when you are not home for instance, when you are out for the evening or out on holiday. It's linked to an app and hub that monitors your pet's movements inside and out of the home. You can also set a smart curfew to regulate when you can allow them to enter and leave. You can also share the app access with friends and family so that they can monitor your pet while you are away.
A microchip cat flap that has an infrared or magnetic collar key will add a further layer of security by only allowing your cat to use the flap when their collar is within a specific distance from it. It is essential to spend time training your cat to use the flap, especially if they are not used to it. Start by leaving the flap open to let them see and smell the world around them. Encourage them to put their head through the hole by handing out a treat or favourite toy on either side of the flap and beg them to do so each time they do so. When they feel confident you can gradually close the flap.
Safety
There are many different cat flaps on the market. Many of them offer different features. You should choose a cat-flap that is the appropriate size for your pet, so that it can enter and exit easily. Choose doors with cat flap that is able to withstand the elements of rain, paws and claws.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in a variety of ways to secure your home and deter burglars from gaining access. You can lock them manually using a peg that is inserted into the lock, or choose microchip cat flaps that allow only registered cats to be allowed into and out of the home. These cat flaps are quick to set up and easy to program, making them perfect for homes with multiple cats.
The main benefit of microchip cat flaps is that they allow you to track your pet's movements around the house, even when you are away from home. Certain models come with smart technology, which lets you monitor the movements of your pets through the door or window by through an app on your smartphone.
This can be useful if you're concerned that your cat may wander too far from home or you're concerned about their access to dangerous animals in the neighborhood. You can track the location of your pet through the app and remotely unlock their cat flap in case they get into any trouble.
You can also opt for a four-way manual locking system which gives you more options to control who can go in and out. This is especially useful when your cat is a bit more aggressive or if they are older and struggle with an ordinary flap. doors with cat flap can be used to keep your pets from entering your home when they are sick or it is raining outside.
Some pet owners choose flaps that scan the pet's chip, and allow entry when the pet is registered. This is to keep out other cats. These systems are more expensive than other cat flaps but they're a good method to stop your neighbor's cats getting into your house.
Convenience
Unrestricted outside access can help keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated. It can also help reduce the amount of accidents that take place within the home. A lot of cats are also attracted by the smells of herbs such as cat thyme (catmint) catnip, catnip, and clary sage. These can be placed on either on the other side of the flap if they are still hesitant.
If you have a tiny hinged panel, which can be attached to a window or door it's easy enough to teach your cat to use it by placing treats on the other side of the flap and encouraging them to use it by offering their favorite food. It's not easy to get them through the first time, but when they've mastered it begin, they will be able to adopt the habit.
Another option is to make use of a magnetic cat flap that detects the microchip of your pet and allows it in. They're more expensive however they work by putting the magnet placed on the neck of your pet to unlock the flap. They can be a great solution for households with multiple cats as they prevent stray cats entering the home.
Other models have different locking options, allowing you to choose to lock it open, closed, exit only or entry only. They are helpful for those who need to regulate the frequency at which your cat is in and out, especially at night or if you're not home. They can also be helpful if you're away from your home for long periods of time and want to ensure that your cat is safe inside.
You can also opt for a smart cat flap that connects to your smartphone and can be controlled by an app, which means you can control your cat's entry and exit without difficulty. These cat flaps are more difficult to install than traditional cat flaps but they offer greater peace of mind and are safer for your pets. Some of these smart cat flaps have video monitoring, and can be accessed anywhere connected to the Internet.
Training
If you have a cat or kitten who has never used a flap for their cat, it can take a while to get them used to the idea of going out on their own. Some cats are naturally curious and will adapt to the new situation quickly. Certain cats need to be gently pushed and allowed time to master to open the flap with their paws or heads. Watching cat flap installation from the inside and out can help you determine the best methods to train them, but keep in mind that every cat is unique.
Instead of trying to force your cat through the flap, it's better to attempt to encourage them offering them treats. Place a treat on the opposite side of the flap (but not so much that it is visible to it) and then open the flap. Your cat should be called through the flap, while speaking in an upbeat, calm voice. This will help your cat learn to navigate the flap by noticing that it takes them closer to the reward on the other side of the flap.
Once your cat starts to push the flap open by licking or shaking their head, you can begin introduction to the outdoors and let them enjoy their new freedom. It is important to monitor your cat to ensure they are safe out there. Some cats may be susceptible to weather conditions and other animals, including neighbouring cats.
If you are unsure whether your cat will be in a position to handle the outdoors, you can lock them inside at night, or leave the flap open so they always have access to their litter box, puzzle feeders and other toys. This will allow you to ensure that they're getting all the exercise and enrichment 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'll always be able to return home if they choose to.