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 their pets out, only to have them change their mind and want to return a few minutes later. A cat flap can help solve this issue.
It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat to allow only authorized cats to enter and restrict access to all other cats. There are many benefits to having a flap for your cat that are:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps are a great way to keep your cat safe and secure by allowing them in and out at any time they wish. If they choose to, they can stay in at the night. This will reduce the chance of being attacked by other cats or feral cats that might be out hunting late in the late at night. Many of these animals have diseases that could be fatal for your cat so keeping them inside at night will keep them from catching them.
Cat flaps that are conventional can allow other cats in and out - this is a major issue for pet owners who do not want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their house as their own, eating their food or engaging in fights with them. A microchip cat door will keep other cats out by identifying the unique microchip number of your cat and allowing it only for your cat.
A microchip cat flap can provide security when you're away like when you go away for the evening or going 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 enables you to control when they can come out and back in using an intelligent curfew that you set. You can also share access to the app with friends and family to ensure that they monitor your pet while you are away.
A microchip cat's flap that is fitted with a magnetic or infrared collar key will add an additional layer of security by allowing your cat to use the flap if their collar is within a specific distance of it. It is recommended to spend some time teaching your cat how to use the flap. This is particularly important if they aren't familiar with using one. Start by leaving the flap wide open so that they can see the outside world and smell it. By distributing a favorite toy or a treat on either side of the flap, encourage and reward your cat every time it pushes its head through. When they feel confident then you can gradually close the flap.
doors with cat flap
There are many different cat flaps available on the market. A lot of them come with different features. It is important to select one that is the right size for your pet, so that it can be opened and exit easily. You should also look for a hard-wearing material that can withstand paws, claws, and rain.
Some cat flaps can be locked in a variety of ways to secure your home and prevent burglars from gaining access. You can lock them manually using an appropriate peg that fits into the lock or opt for microchip cat doors that only allow registered cats to enter your home. These cat flaps can be easily programmed and are simple to set up, which makes them ideal for homes with pets that are multiple.
Microchip cat flaps are a great way to monitor your pet's movements within the home even if you're not present. Certain models are equipped with smart technology that allows you to track your pets' movements when you walk through the windows or doors using an app on your smartphone.
This is beneficial when you're worried that your cat might wander too far away from home or have access to dangerous animals in the neighborhood. You can check the status of your pet using the app and remotely lock their cat flap if they are in trouble.
You can also choose the four-way manual locking system, which gives you more options to decide who can go in and out. This is particularly useful if your cat is more aggressive or if they are older and struggle with an ordinary flap. This method can also be used to stop your pets coming in if they're unwell or it's raining outside.
Other pet owners opt for flaps that read the microchip of their pet and only allow entry if it is registered, thus blocking other cats. These systems can be more expensive than other flaps for cats, but they're a good way to prevent your neighbour's cats from getting into your home.
Convenience
Unrestricted access to the outside can help keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated. It can also help reduce the amount of accidents that occur within the home. Many cats are also enticed by the smell of plants like cat thyme or catnip (catmint) and clary sage. These can be placed on either side of the flap to help encourage them to use it even when they are still in a shaky state.
It's simple to teach your cat how to use a small hinged flap that can be attached to a door or window. Place treats on the other end of the flap, and encourage them to walk through with their favorite food. It's not easy to master the process the first time, but once they've done it, they should take up the habit.
A magnetic cat flap could also be utilized. It detects the microchip of your pet and allows it to access. These are more expensive, however they work by putting the magnet around your pet's neck to unlock the flap. These are a good option for households with multiple cats to stop stray animals from entering the property.
Other models have different locking options, allowing you to set it to open shut, closed, exit only or entry only. They are helpful if you need to control when your cat is in and out particularly at night, or when you're away. These can be useful when you're away from home for a long time and want to make sure your cat is safe.
You can also select a smart cat-flap that is connected to your smartphone and controlled via an app. This allows you to manage the entry and exit of your cat easily. These aren't as easy to install as traditional cat flaps, but they're safer for your pets and provide more security. Some of these smart cat flaps have video monitoring, and can be accessed anywhere that has an internet connection.
Training
It may take a while for a cat's body to become comfortable with going outdoors on its own, especially even if they've not used a flap before. Depending on their nature, some are naturally curious and adjust to the new experience quickly. Some cats will need to be gently urged and given time to learn to open the flap using their paws or heads. Watching them from the inside and out can help you work out the best methods to train them however, remember that all cats are different.
Instead of trying to make your cat go through the flap, attempt to encourage them using treats. The flap should be opened just a bit (not enough to be able to see the other side) and then place treats on the other side. Call them through the cat flap, making sure your voice is steady and positive to make the training sessions easier for both of you and your cat. This will help your cat learn how to go through the flap, noticing that it takes them closer to the reward on the other side of the flap.
Once your cat starts to push the flap open by licking or shaking their head, you can begin in introducing them to the outdoor world and let them enjoy their new freedom. However, it's important to keep an eye on your cat and make sure they are secure in the outdoors since certain cats are susceptible to the elements and other animals such as cats that are in the vicinity.
If you're not sure if your cat is able to handle 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. You can ensure that your cat is getting the enrichment and exercise that it requires however, you should also provide them with a way to escape any stressful situations that might arise in the home. They'll also be secure knowing that they are able to return home whenever they wish to.