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 have experienced the feeling of waking in the middle of the night by a call to let their cats out and then to change their minds and want to return a few minutes later. A cat flap is a solution to this issue.
It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat to allow in only authorised cats, and denying access to others. There are a number of advantages to having a flap for your cat that are:
Peace of Mind
Cat flaps keep your cat secure and safe by allowing it to come and go whenever they like. They can remain in the dark if they want, which reduces their chances of being attacked by feral cats or other cats that might be out hunting at night. Many of these animals have diseases that could be fatal to your cat, and so keeping them in at night will stop them from catching them.
Conventional cat flaps can also let other cats out and in - this is a major concern for pet owners who don't want their neighbors' cats to harass their pets, marking their homes as their own, eating their food, or getting into fights with them. A microchip cat door can keep other cats out by identifying the unique microchip number of your cat, and then unlocking it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap may provide security even when you're not home like when you go away for the evening or out on holiday. It is linked to an app and hub that tracks your pet's movements within and out of the home. You can also set a smart curfew to restrict when they are allowed to leave and enter. The app can be shared with family and friends so they can keep track of your pets while you are away.
A microchip cat-flap fitted with a magnetic collar key or infrared collar will add an extra layer of protection to your cat's security by only allowing 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. Begin by leaving the flap open so that they can see the outside world and smell it. By distributing a favorite toy or treat on either side of the flap, give your cat praise and a reward each time it pushes its head through. Once they feel confident then you can gradually close the flap.
Safety
There are a myriad of cat flaps available and many of them come with different features. You should choose a cat-flap that is the right size for your pet's needs so that it can enter and exit easily. Also, you should look for a durable product that is able to withstand paws, claws, and rain.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in different ways to protect your home and keep burglars out. You can lock them manually using a peg that fits into the lock, or choose microchip cat flaps that allow only registered cats to be allowed into and out of the home. Cat flaps can be easily programmed and are easy to install, making them ideal for homes with multiple pets.
Microchip cat flaps are an excellent way to track your pet's movements in the house even when you're not around. Certain models come with smart technology, which lets you monitor the movements of your pets from the door or window by using an app on your phone.
This is beneficial when you're worried that your cat could wander too far away from their home or have access to click here dangerous animals in the neighbourhood. You can remotely open the check here flap on your cat's door and check your pet's condition using the app.
You can also select the four-way manual locking system that gives you greater control over who is able to be allowed to enter and exit. This is especially helpful when your cat is a bit get more info aggressive or older and may struggle with a traditional flap. This is a great option to keep your pets from coming in when they are sick or it is raining outside.
Some pet owners opt for flaps that read the microchip of their pet and only allow entry if it is registered, thus keeping other cats out. These systems are more expensive than normal cat flaps, but they work well to keep the cats of your neighbors away from your house.
Convenience
Unrestricted access to the outside can help keep your cat mentally and physically engaged. It can also reduce the number of toileting accidents that happen within the home. Many cats are also attracted to the scents of plants such as cat thyme (catmint), catnip and clary sage. They can be put either the side of the flap in case they are still unsure.
It's easy to teach your cat how to use a small hinged flap that can be attached to a window or door. Place treats at the other end of the flap and encourage them to go through using their favorite food. It can be difficult to master the process the first time, but when they've mastered it start, they should continue to follow the habit.
Another option is to make use of a magnetic cat flap, that recognizes your pet's microchip and allows it to be inserted. They are more expensive, however they work by putting the magnetic device that is attached to your pet's collar to unlock the flap, granting access to your home. These are a good option for households with multiple cats to stop unwanted animals from entering your property.
Other models come with a variety of locking options that allow you to choose to lock it open shut, closed, exit only or entrance only. They are helpful when you want to control when your cat comes and goes particularly at night or when you're away. They can be helpful in situations where you're away from home for an extended period of time and want to be sure that your cat is secure.
You can also select an intelligent cat website flap that is connected to your smartphone and is operated by an app which means you can control your cat's entry and exit without difficulty. They're not as simple to install as traditional cat flaps but they're much more secure for your pet and offer more security. Some of these smart flaps even include video monitoring and are accessible from anywhere connected to the internet.
Training
If you have a cat or kitten who has never used a cat flap it can take a while to get them used to the idea of going outside on their own. Based on their individual personality, some are naturally curious and adapt to the new environment quickly. Others may require being gently encouraged and need time to master how to push the flap open using a paw or head. Watching your cat from both the inside and outside will help you decide on the best methods of training to use. However, remember that every cat is unique.
Instead of trying to force your cat through the flap, you should instead try and encourage them by using treats. Prop the flap open a little (not enough to be able to see the other side) and then place an item on the opposite side. Call them through the flap, keeping your voice steady and positive to make the training sessions easier for both you and your cat. This will aid your cat in learning to use the flap because they will be able to see that it helps them get closer to the reward at the other side.
Once your cat is beginning to open the flap with a lick or a head, you can begin introducing them to the outdoor environment and let them enjoy their new freedom. It is important to monitor your cat to ensure they are safe outside. Some cats could be vulnerable to the weather or other animals, such as cats that live nearby.
If you're unsure if your cat can cope with the outdoor world, you could always put them in a cage at night, or leave the flap unlocked to ensure they have access to their litter tray, puzzle feeders and toys. This allows you to ensure that they get all the exercise and stimulation that they need but also gives them a way to escape any stressful situation in the house, for instance when you're cooking or cleaning. They'll also feel comfortable knowing they can always more info return home if they want to.