How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap
Many cat owners have experienced the feeling of waking in the middle night to let their pets out, only to have them change their minds and want to return later. A cat flap can solve this issue. It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat's microchip to allow only authorized cats access and restrict access to all other cats. A cat flap offers number of advantages, including: Peace of mind Cat flaps can help keep your cat secure and safe by allowing them in and out at any time they wish. If they want to, they can stay in at the night. This will reduce the chances of them being attacked by other cats or wild cats that might be out hunting late at night. These animals can carry deadly diseases that your cat could be exposed to if they are left outside at night. Cats are able to enter and exit through conventional 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 get into fights with their cats. A microchip cat door can keep other cats out by identifying the unique microchip number of your cat and allowing it only for your cat. It can also provide peace of mind if you're away from home, for example when you go on vacation or out at night. It's linked to an app and hub that tracks your pet's movements inside and out of the home. You can also create a smart curfew that will control when you allow them to leave and enter. You can share the app with family and friends so they can keep track of your pet when you're away. A microchip cat flap that has a magnetic or infrared 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 crucial to spend time educating your cat to use the flap particularly if they aren't used to it – start by opening the flap to let them see and sniff the outside world. By distributing a favorite toy or food item on either side of the flap, encourage and reward your cat each time it pushes its head through. Once they're comfortable using the flap, slowly close it. Safety There are many cat flaps on the market and many of them come with different features. You should select a cat-flap that's the proper size for your pet's needs so that it can be opened and out easily. Look for a durable material that can withstand the elements, rain, and claws. Some cat flaps can be locked in a range of ways to secure your home and deter burglars from entering. You can lock them manually using a peg that is inserted into the lock, or opt for microchip cat flaps that permit only registered cats to enter and exit the home. Cat flaps can be easily programmed and are easy to set up, making them ideal for homes with multiple pets. The main benefit of microchip cat flaps is that they allow you to track your pets movements around the house, even when you're away from home. Some models come with intelligent technology that allows you to track your pets' movements when you walk through the door or window using an app on your phone. This is useful in the event that you are worried that your cat may wander off from home or if they have access to dangerous animals in the neighbourhood. cat flap install Repair My Windows And Doors can track the location of your pet using the app and remotely unlock their cat flap if they do get into trouble. You can also choose a four way manual locking system, which gives you more options to control who can enter and exit the room. This is particularly helpful if you have an aggressive cat or an older cat that might struggle with a traditional flap. This method can also be used to stop your pets coming in when they're sick or it's raining outside. Certain pet owners choose to use flaps that scan a pet's chip, and allow it to enter only if the pet is registered. This is to keep out other cats. These systems are more expensive than normal cat flaps, but they are effective in keeping your neighbours' cats out of your home. Convenience Unrestricted outside access can help keep your cat physically and mentally stimulated. It also helps reduce the number of accidents that happen in the home. Many cats are also attracted by the scents of herbs such as cat thyme (catmint) catnip, catnip, and clary sage. They can be put either the side of the flap in case they are still unsure. If you have a tiny hinged panel that can be attached to a door or window, it's simple enough to teach your cat to use it by placing treats on the opposite side of the flap and encouraging them to use it with their favourite food. It might be difficult to get your cat through the first time however once you've mastered it, you will be able to make it a habit. A magnetic cat flap could also be utilized. It recognizes the microchip of your pet and allows it access to. They are more expensive, however they work by putting a magnetic device on the collar of your pet to open the flap and give it access to your home. These are a great choice for multi-cat households to prevent unwanted animals from entering your property. Other models come with different locking options that allow you to choose to lock it open shut, closed, exit only or entrance only. These can be useful if you want to control the time your cat is allowed to go out and come in especially late at night or you're not home. They can be helpful when you're away from home for an extended period of time and want to be sure that your cat is secure. You can also choose an intelligent cat flap that connects to your smartphone and is controlled by an app, that means you can control your cat's entry and exit without difficulty. These flaps are more difficult to install than traditional cat flaps however they provide more peace of mind and are safer for your pet. Some of these flaps have video monitoring and can be accessed from any location connected to the internet. Training If you have a kitten or cat who has never used a flap for their cat, it may take some time for them to get accustomed to the idea of being out on their own. Certain cats are naturally curious and will adjust to the new environment quickly. Others may need to be gently enthused and require time to learn to push the flap open with a paw or head. Watching them from the inside and out will help you figure out the best methods to train them, but be aware that all cats are unique. Instead of yelling at your cat to open the flap, try to encourage them with treats. The flap should be opened just a bit (not enough to be able to see the other side) and place an item on the opposite side. Call them through the cat flap, keeping your voice steady and positive to make the learning sessions easier for both you and your cat. This will help your cat learn how to use the flap because they will be able to see that it brings them closer to the reward at the other end. When your cat starts to take a lick or use their head to open it, you can let them roam around the outside and take advantage of their newfound freedom. It's important to watch your cat to ensure they are safe out there. Some cats could be vulnerable to the weather or other animals, such as neighbouring cats. If you're unsure whether your cat can handle the outdoor 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. This allows you to ensure that they're getting all the exercise and enrichment they require, but also provides them with a means of escape from any stressful situations around the house, such as when you're cooking or cleaning. They'll also feel secure knowing they'll be able to return home should they wish to.