How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap

Many cat owners can relate to the feeling of being awakened up in the late at night to let their cat out, only for them to change their minds and want to return within minutes. A cat flap could solve this problem.
It works by scanning the microchip of your cat's microchip to allow only authorized cats to enter and block access to other cats. A cat flap has a number of advantages, including:
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 stay in their home at night if want, which reduces the risk of being attacked by wild cats or other felines that might be out hunting in the late at night. These animals could carry deadly diseases that your cat might be exposed to if they are not kept in the dark.
Cats can get in and out via standard cat flaps. This is a worry for pet owners who don't want their neighbours' cats to harass their pets, mark their homes as a territory and eat their food or fight with their cats. A microchip cat door will keep out other cats by identifying the unique microchip number of your cat and allowing it only for your cat.
It can also provide peace of mind when you're away from home, like when you are on vacation or out at night. It's connected to an app and hub that tracks your pet's movements inside and out of the home. You can also set a smart curfew in order to restrict when they are allowed to enter and leave. You can also share access to the app with family and friends so that they can keep an eye on your pets whilst you are away.
A microchip cat-flap fitted with a magnetic collar key or infrared collar can add an additional layer of security to your cat's safety by only the ability to use it when their collar is within certain distance. You should spend some time training your cat how to use the flap. This is especially crucial if your cat isn't familiar with using one. Start by leaving the flap wide open so they can see the outside world and smell it. In the meantime, by distributing a favorite toy or food item from either side of flap, praise and reward your cat each time it puts its head through. Once they're confident with the flap, gradually close it.
Safety
There are many different cat flaps available on the market. They all have different features. It is important to select a cat-flap that is the proper size for your pet, so that it can be opened and out easily. Choose a sturdy material that can withstand the elements, rain, and claws.
Certain cat flaps are lockable in various ways to secure your home and keep burglars out. fitting cat flap in upvc door panel can lock them manually using a peg which fits into the lock or opt for microchip cat doors that only allow registered cats to enter your home. These cat flaps can be easily programmed and are easy to install, making them ideal for homes with pets that are multiple.
A key advantage 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. Some models are equipped with smart technology, which allows you to monitor the movement of your pets through the door or window using an app on your smartphone.
This is helpful when you're worried that your cat may wander too far away from home or if they have access to dangerous animals in the area. You can remotely unlock the flap for your cat and check your pet's health via the app.
You can also opt for the four-way manual locking system, which gives you more control over who is able to enter and leave. This is particularly useful when you have a naive cat or an older cat who might be unable to use a traditional flap. This method can be used to deter your pets coming in if they're unwell or it's raining outside.
Other pet owners opt for flaps that read a pet's microchip and only allow entry when it is registered, blocking other cats. These flaps can be more expensive than other cat flaps however they are a great way to keep your neighbour's cats from getting into your home.
Convenience
Access to the outdoors without restrictions can help to keep your cat mentally and physically engaged. It also helps reduce the amount of accidents that happen within the home. Many cats are also drawn by the smells of herbs such as cat thyme (catmint) as well as catnip and clary sage. They can be put either the side of the flap in case they are still hesitant.
If you have a small hinged panel that can be affixed to a door or window it's easy to teach your cat how to use it by placing treats on the opposite side of the flap, and encouraging them to use it with their favorite food. It's not easy to master the process the first time, but once they've done it, they should take up the habit.
A magnetic cat flap could also be used. It recognises the microchip of your pet and allows it to access. They're more expensive however, they function by using magnets on your pet's neck to unlock the flap. They are a great option for families with multiple cats to keep pets that are stray from entering the property.
Other models have different locking options which allow you to choose to lock it open or closed, and even exit or entry only. These are useful when you want to control when your cat goes and comes, especially at night or when you're away. They may also be useful in situations where you're away from your home for extended periods of time and want to ensure that your cat is safe inside.
You can also select a cat flap that is connected to your smartphone and can be operated by an app that means you can control your cat's entrance and exit easily. They're not as simple to install as traditional cat flaps, but they're more secure for your pet and offer more security. Some of these flaps have video monitoring and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
Training
If you have a kitten or cat who has never used a cat flap it can take a while for them to get accustomed to the idea of being out on their own. Based on fitting cat flap in upvc door panel , some are naturally curious and adjust to the new experience quickly. Some cats will need to be gently urged and taught to open the flap using their paws or heads. Watching your cat from both the inside and outside will help you decide on the best training methods to employ. But remember that every cat is unique.
Instead of yelling at your cat to walk through the flap, you should try to encourage them by giving them treats. Place an item on the other side of the flap (but not in a way that allows you to see it) and then prop the flap open. Your cat should be called through the flap, while speaking in an upbeat, calm voice. This will help your cat learn how to go through the flap and notice that it takes them closer to their reward on the opposite side of the flap.
When your cat begins to open the flap with a lick or a head, you can begin introduction to the outdoor world and let them enjoy their new freedom. But, it's crucial to keep an eye on your cat and ensure that they are safe outdoors as certain cats are vulnerable to the elements and other animals like cats that are in the vicinity.
If you're not sure whether your cat is in a position to handle the outdoors, you can keep your cat inside at night or leave the flap open so that they always have access to their litter box, puzzle feeders and other toys. You can make sure that your cat is getting the exercise and stimulation it requires and give them a chance to escape any stressful situations that might arise in the home. They will also have the security of knowing that they will be able to return home if they'd like to.