How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap
Many cat owners have experienced the feeling of getting up in the middle of the night by a call to let out their cats but only to change their minds and want to return later. A cat flap can 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. cat flap fitting near me can provide a number of advantages, including:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps keep your cat secure and safe by permitting it to move around whenever they want. If they prefer remain inside, they can do so at the night. This will decrease the chances of them being attacked by other cats or wild cats that may be out hunting late at night. They can be carriers of deadly diseases that your cat might catch if they are not kept in the dark.
Conventional cat flaps can also let other cats out and in - this is a major issue for pet owners who don't want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their house as theirs, consuming their food or getting into fights with them. A microchip cat door can keep other cats out by recognizing the unique microchip number of your cat and unlocking it only for your cat.
It can also provide peace of mind when you're away from home, for example when you go to a vacation spot or go out for the night. It connects to a hub and app that tracks your pet's movements inside and out of the home and allows you to regulate when they are allowed in and out via a smart curfew feature that you set. The app can be shared with family and friends so they can keep track of your pets while you are away.
A cat-flap that has a microchip and a magnetic collar key or infrared collars will provide an additional layer of security to your cat's security by only permitting them to use it when their collar is within certain distance. It is important to spend time training your cat how to use the flap. This is particularly crucial if your cat isn't used to using one. Start by leaving the flap wide open so they can see the outside world and smell it. Encourage them to poke their head through the hole by handing the treat or their favorite toy on either side of the flap. Then beg them to do so each time they do so. Once they feel confident you can gradually close the flap.
Safety
There are a myriad of cat flaps available, with many offering different features. You should select a cat-flap that's the proper size for your pet so it can be able to enter and exit easily. Choose a sturdy material that can withstand rain, paws and claws.
Some cat flaps are lockable in different ways to secure your home and keep burglars out. You can lock them manually by using a peg that is inserted into the lock, or you can opt for microchip cat flaps that permit only registered cats to enter and exit the home. The cat flaps are easily programmed and are simple to install, making them ideal for homes with pets that are multiple.
Microchip cat flaps are a great method to track your pet's movement inside the house, even if you're not there. Certain models come with smart technology that allows you to track the movements of your pets through the window or door through an app on your smartphone.
This is helpful if you are concerned that your cat might wander away from their home or have access to dangerous animals in the neighbourhood. You can track the location of your pet's health using the app and remotely lock their cat flap should they get into any trouble.
You can also opt for a four-way manual locking system, which gives you more control over who can access and exit the door. This is especially useful for cats that are more aggressive or if they are older and be unable to use an ordinary flap. This option can be used to deter your pets from entering your home when they're sick or if it's raining outside.
Other pet owners choose flaps that read the microchip of their pet and only allow entry when it is registered, thus blocking other cats. These systems are more expensive than normal cat flaps, however they are effective in keeping the cats of your neighbors away from your home.
Convenience
Access to the outdoors without restrictions can help to keep your cat physically and mentally engaged. It can also decrease the number of accidents that occur inside the home. A lot of cats are also attracted to the scents of plants like cat thyme (catmint), catnip and clary sage. These can be placed on either on the other side of the flap if they are still unsure.
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 other side of the flap and encouraging them through it by using their favourite food. It's not easy to master the process the first time, but when they've mastered it, they should take up the habit.
Another option is to use a magnetic cat flap, that detects the microchip of your pet and allows it to be inserted. They're more expensive however, they function by using a magnet around your pet's neck to unlock the flap. These are a great choice for multi-cat households to prevent pets that are stray from entering the property.
Other models offer different locking options. You can choose to lock it open or close and exit only or only for entrance. This is useful if you want to control when your cat goes out and returns, especially if it's late at night and you're not home. They are also useful if you're away from your home for a long period of time and want to ensure that your cat stays safe inside.
You can also choose a smart cat flap that is connected to your smartphone and can be controlled by an app, which means you can control your cat's entrance and exit with ease. They're not as simple to install as traditional cat flaps, but they're much more secure for your pet and provide more security. Some of these cat flaps are equipped with video monitoring, and are accessible from any location with an Internet connection.
Training
It may take a while for a cat to get comfortable with going outside by itself even if they've not used a flap before. Some cats are naturally curious, and will adapt to the new situation very quickly. Some cats will need to be gently urged and given time to learn to open the flap using their paws or their heads. Examining cat flap in upvc door panel from the inside and from the outside can help you decide what methods of training to use. However, remember that every cat is different.
Instead of trying to push your cat through the flap, it's better to try and encourage them by giving them treats. Place a treat on the opposite side of the flap (but not enough to see it) and then prop the flap open. Make your cat a call through the flap while maintaining an ebullient, calm voice. This will help your cat learn to utilize the flap since they will be able to see that it helps them get closer to the reward on the other end.
When your cat begins to open the flap with a lick or a head, you can begin introducing them to the outdoor environment and let them explore their new freedom. But, it's crucial to keep an eye on your cat and make sure they are secure in the outdoors since certain cats are vulnerable to the elements as well as other animals such as cats in the area.
If you're unsure whether your cat can handle the outside world it is possible to lock them in at night or leave the flap unlocked so that they have constant access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders and toys. This will allow you to ensure that they're getting all the exercise and stimulation they require. It it also provides them with a means to escape any stressful situations around the house, such as when you're cooking or cleaning. You'll also feel safe knowing that they'll be able to return home if they choose to.