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 can relate to the feeling of getting up in the late at night to let their cats out but only to change their minds and decide to go back inside minutes later. A cat flap can help solve this issue.
It is operated by scanning your cat's microchip to allow in only authorised cats and block access to other. There are many advantages to having a flap for your cat that include:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps help to keep your cat secure and safe by allowing them in and out at any time they wish. They can be in their home at night if prefer, which reduces their chances of being attacked by feral cats or other cats who might be hunting at late at night. These animals can carry deadly diseases that your cat could catch if they are left outside at night.
Conventional cat flaps also let other cats out and in - this is a major concern for some pet owners who do not want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their home as their territory, eating their food or engaging in fights with them. A microchip cat door can keep out other cats by reading the unique microchip number of your cat and allowing it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap may provide security when you're away like when you are out for the evening or out on holiday. It connects to a hub as well as an app, which tracks your pet's movements into and out of the house and lets you control the time they are allowed to come out and back in using the smart curfew feature you set. You can share the app 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 if their collar is within a certain distance from it. It is important to spend time teaching your cat to use the flap. This is particularly important if it's not used to using one. Start by leaving the flap open so they can see the outside world and smell it. Encourage them to push their head through the hole by handing the treat or their favorite toy from either side of the flap and beg them to do so each time they do so. Once they're confident with the flap, gradually close it.
Safety
There are many cat flaps available, with many offering different features. It is essential to select a cat flap that suits the size of your pet to allow them to move between the two without difficulty. Look for a durable material that is able to withstand the elements of rain, paws and claws.
Certain cat flaps are lockable in different ways to secure your home and keep burglars out. You can lock them manually by using an appropriate peg that fits into the lock, or choose microchip cat doors that only allow registered cats to access the home. The cat flaps are simple to set up and easy to program, which makes them ideal for homes with multiple cats.
Microchip cat flaps are a great way to monitor your pet's movements inside the house, even if you're not present. Certain models come with smart technology, which lets you monitor the movement of your pets through the window or door via an app on your smartphone.
This is useful in case you're worried that your cat could wander off from your home or you're concerned about them having access to animals that could be dangerous in the neighbourhood. You can remotely lock the flap on your cat's door and check your pet's status through the app.
You can also opt for a four-way manual locking mechanism that gives you more control over who is able to access and exit the door. This is particularly helpful if you have an aggressive cat or an older cat that may struggle with a standard flap. This method can be used to deter your pets from entering your home when they're sick or if it's raining outside.
Certain pet owners choose to use flaps that scan a pet's chip and only allow entry if the pet is registered. This is to keep out other cats. These systems are more expensive than standard cat flaps, but they are effective in keeping your neighbors' cats away from your home.
Convenience
Having unrestricted access to the outside world can help keep your cat physically and mentally 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 scents of herbs like 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 unsure.
It's simple more info to teach your cat how to use a small hinged flap that can be attached to a window or door. Place treats on check here the other side of the flap, and encourage them to walk through with their preferred food. It may be difficult to master the process the first time, but once they've done it begin, they will be able to adopt the habit.
Another alternative is to opt for a magnetic cat flap, that recognizes your pet's microchip and lets it to enter. They're more expensive, but work by using an electronic device attached to the collar of your pet to open the flap, granting access to your home. These are a great solution website for households with multiple cats and prevent stray cats entering the property.
Other models come with different locking options, allowing you to choose to lock it open shut, closed, exit only or entrance only. These are great when you want to control the frequency at which your cat comes and goes particularly at night, or when you're not home. They may also be useful if you're away from home for extended periods of time and you need to ensure that your cat is in a safe place.
You can also choose a cat-flap with a smart design that is connected to your smartphone, and controlled by an app. This lets you manage the entrance and exit of your cat easily. They're not as simple to install get more info as traditional cat flaps, but they're much more secure for your pet and provide more security. Some of these smart flaps also come with video monitoring and are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
Training
If you have a cat or kitten who has never used a flap for their cat, it can take a while for them to get accustomed to the idea of being out on their own. Some cats are naturally curious, and will adjust to the new situation quickly. Some cats will need to be gently pushed and given time to learn to open the flap using their paws or their heads. Observing your cat from both the inside and outside will help you decide on the best training methods to employ. Remember that every cat is unique.
Instead of trying to push your cat through the flap, attempt to encourage them giving them treats. Open the flap a little (not enough to be able to see the other side) and then place an item on the opposite side. Then, call them through the flap, making sure your voice is calm and positive to help make the learning sessions easier for both you and your cat. This will aid your cat in learning to utilize the flap since they will be able to see that it brings them closer to the reward on the other end.
Once your cat is beginning to open the flap with a lick or a head, you can start in introducing them to the outdoor world and let them enjoy their new freedom. It's important to watch your cat to ensure that they are safe outside. Some cats could be vulnerable to the weather and other animals, like neighbouring cats.
If you're unsure if your cat can handle the outdoors you can always keep them inside at night or leave the flap open to ensure that they get more info have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders, and toys. This will allow you to ensure that they're getting all the exercise and enrichment that they need but also provides them with a means to escape any stressful situation in the house, for instance when you're cooking or cleaning. They'll also feel secure knowing they'll be able to return home if they choose to.