How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap

Many cat owners have experienced the feeling of waking in the middle of the night by a call to let out their cats but only to change their minds and want to go back inside minutes later. A cat flap solves this problem.
It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat's microchip to allow only authorized cats to enter and restrict access to all other cats. The flap can provide a number benefits, including:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps help to keep your cat safe and secure by allowing them to go in and out at any time they wish. They can remain in their home at night if want, which reduces the chance of being attacked by wild cats or other felines that may be out hunting in the night. These animals could carry deadly diseases that your cat could contract if left outside at night.
cat flap install can also let other cats inside and out. This is a big worry for some pet owners who do not wish to have neighbours' cats harassing their pets, marking their homes as theirs, consuming their food or getting into fights with them. A microchip cat door can protect your cat from other cats by recognizing the unique microchip number of your cat and allowing it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap could provide security when you are not home like when you go out for the evening or going on holiday. It's connected to an app and hub that track your pet's movement in and outside the house. You can also set a smart curfew to control when you allow them to enter and leave. The app can be shared with your family and friends so they can keep track of your pets while you are away.
A microchip cat flap with an infrared or magnetic collar key can provide an additional layer of security by only allowing your cat to use the flap only when their collar is within a specific distance from it. It is essential to spend time teaching your cat to use the flap, especially if they are not used to it - start by opening the flap so that they can view and smell the world around them. Encourage them to push their head through the hole by handing out a treat or favorite toy on either side of the flap and praise and reward them every when they do this. When they feel confident then you can gradually close the flap.
Safety
There are many cat flaps available, with many offering different features. It's important to choose the right cat flap for the size of your pet, to allow them to move in and out without any difficulty. Choose a sturdy material that can withstand rain, paws and claws.
Some cat flaps can be locked in a range of ways to secure your home and prevent burglars from getting in. You can lock them manually with a peg which fits into the lock, or you can choose microchip cat doors that allow registered cats to enter your home. The cat flaps are simple to set up and simple to program, making them perfect for homes with several cats.
A key advantage of microchip cat flaps is that they enable you to track your pets movements around the house, even when you are away from home. Some models have intelligent technology that allows you to track your pets' movements as they walk through the windows or doors by using an app on your phone.
This is useful if you are concerned that your cat may wander too far away from home or have access to dangerous animals in the area. You can remotely lock the flap for your cat and monitor your pet's status through the app.
You can also opt for a four way manual locking system, which gives you more options to decide who can access the door and when. This is particularly helpful for those with an aggressive cat or an older cat who might struggle with a traditional flap. This is a great option to stop your pet from entering your home when they are sick or if it is raining outside.
Other pet owners opt for flaps that read a pet's microchip and only allow entry if it is registered, keeping other cats out. These systems are more expensive than normal cat flaps, however they work well to keep your neighbors' cats away from your house.
Convenience
Being able to access the world outside can help keep your cat physically and mentally engaged. It can also help reduce the amount of accidents that take place in the home. Many cats are also enticed by the smell of plants like cat thyme and catnip (catmint) and clary sage. These can be placed on either side of the flap to entice them to use it even when they are still in a shaky state.
If you have a tiny hinged panel that can be attached to a window or door it's easy enough to teach your cat how to use it by placing treats on the other side of the flap and guiding them to use it by offering their favorite food. It may be difficult to get your cat through the first time but once you've done it, it should become a habit.
Another option is to use magnetic cat flaps, that detects your pet's microchip and lets it to be inserted. They're more expensive, but they function by using the magnetic device that is attached to the collar of your pet to unlock the flap and grant access to your home. They can be a great solution for households with multiple cats as they stop stray cats from entering your home.
Other models come with different locking options. You can choose to lock it open or close and exit only or entrance only. They are helpful for those who need to regulate the time your cat is in and out particularly at night, or when you're away. They are useful if you are away from home for a prolonged time and you want to make sure that your cat is secure.
You can also select a smart cat-flap that is connected to your smartphone and controlled via an app. This lets you manage the entry and exit of your cat easily. These cat flaps are more difficult to install than traditional cat flaps, but they offer greater security and are more secure for your pets. Some of these smart cat flaps are equipped with video monitoring, and can be accessed anywhere that has an internet connection.
Training
It may take a while for a cat to get accustomed to going outside by itself if they have never used a flap before. Certain cats are naturally curious, and will adapt to the new situation quickly. Others may need to be gently enthused and require time to learn how to open the flap by using a paw or a head. Observing them from the outside and inside can help you determine what methods to use to train them but be aware that all cats are unique.
Rather than trying to make your cat go through the flap, it's better to try and encourage them by 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 prop the flap open. Call your cat through the cat flap while using 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 other side of the flap.
When your cat begins to open the flap with a lick or a head, you can begin in introducing them to the outdoor environment and let them enjoy their new freedom. But, it's crucial to watch your cat and make sure they are secure outdoors, as some cats can be vulnerable to the elements as well as other animals like cats in the area.
If you're unsure whether your cat is able to handle the outside world you can always keep them inside at night or leave the flap unlocked to ensure they have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders and toys. You can make sure that your cat is getting the enrichment and exercise that it needs however, you should also provide them with a way to escape any stressful situations that might arise in the home. You'll also feel safe knowing that they'll be able to return home if they choose to.