How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap

Many cat owners are familiar with the feeling of waking in the middle night to let out their cats and then to change their mind and want to return later. A cat flap could solve this problem.
It is operated by scanning your cat's microchip, allowing access to only authorized cats, and denying access to others. There are a number of benefits to using a cat flap. These are:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps can help keep your cat safe and secure by allowing them to go in and out at any time they wish. They can stay in the dark if they wish, which will reduce the risk of being attacked by wild cats or other cats that might be out hunting during the night. These animals can carry deadly illnesses that your cat may be exposed to if they are not kept in the dark.
Conventional cat flaps also allow other cats out and in - this is a major concern for pet owners who do not wish to have neighbours' cats harassing their pets, marking their home as theirs, consuming their food or getting into 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 even give you peace of mind when you are not home, such as when you are going out for dinner or going on holiday. It's linked to an app and hub that track your pet's movements within and out of the house. You can also set a smart curfew in order to restrict when they are allowed to leave and enter. You can share the app with your family and friends so they can keep track of your pets while you're away.
A microchip cat flap that has a magnetic or infrared collar key will add an additional layer of security by only allowing your cat to use the flap when their collar is within a certain distance from it. It is recommended to spend some time teaching your cat to use the flap. This is especially important if it's not familiar with using one. Begin by leaving the flap wide open to let them observe the outside world and smell it. Encourage them to poke their head through the hole by holding out a treat or favourite toy on either side of the flap. Then beg them to do so each when they do this. When they feel confident you can gradually close the flap.
Safety
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market. Many of them offer various features. It is important to select one that is suitable for the size of your pet so that they can move into and out with no difficulty. Choose a sturdy material that is able to withstand the elements of rain, paws and claws.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in different ways to protect your home from burglars out. You can lock them manually by using a peg which fits into the lock, or choose microchip cat doors that only allow registered cats to enter the house. The cat flaps are easily programmed and are easy to install, making them perfect for homes with pets that are multiple.
Microchip cat flaps are a great method to track your pet's movement within the home even if you're not present. Certain models are equipped with smart technology that enables you to monitor your pets' movements when you walk through the window or door through an app on your phone.
This is useful if you are concerned that your cat might wander off from their home or have access to dangerous animals in the neighbourhood. You can remotely lock the flap on your cat's door and check your pet's condition using the app.
You can also select a four-way manual locking system that gives you more control over who can access and exit the door. This is especially useful for those with an aggressive cat or a cat with a long history that might be unable to use a traditional flap. This is a great option to stop your pet from entering your home when they are sick or if it's raining outside.
Other pet owners opt for flaps that read a pet's microchip and only allow entry if it is registered, thus blocking other cats. These systems are more expensive than normal cat flaps, but they work well to keep your neighbours' cats out of your home.
Convenience
Having unrestricted access to the outside world can help keep your cat mentally and physically engaged. It can also decrease the amount of accidents that occur inside the home. A lot of cats are also attracted to the scents of plants like cat thyme (catmint) as well as catnip and clary sage. They can be put on either on the other side of the flap if they are still unsure.
If you have a small hinged panel, which can be attached to a window or door, it's simple enough to teach your cat to use it by placing treats on the other side of the flap, and encouraging them through it by using their favourite food. It's not easy to make them go through it the first time, but once they do begin, they will be able to adopt the habit.
Another option is to use a magnetic cat flap, which recognises your pet's microchip and allows it to be inserted. These are more expensive, but they work by using magnets around your pet's neck to unlock the flap. They can be a great solution for households with multiple cats as they stop stray cats from entering your home.
Other models have different locking options, allowing you to choose to lock it open, closed, exit only or entry only. These are great if you need to control the time your cat is in and out particularly at night, or when you're not home. They are also useful when you are away from home for a long period of time and need to ensure your cat remains in a safe place.
You can also choose an intelligent cat-flap that's connected to your smartphone and controlled by an app. This allows you to manage the entrance and exit of your cat in a matter of minutes. These are not as easy to install as traditional cat flaps but they're much safer for your pets and offer more security. Some of these smart cat flaps have video monitoring and can be accessed from anywhere with an Internet connection.
Training
If you have a kitten or cat who has never used a cat flap it can take a while to get them used to the idea of going out on their own. Depending on their nature, some are naturally curious and will adjust to the new experience quickly. Others may need to be gently encouraged and need time to learn to push the flap open using a paw or head. Observing your cat from both the inside and outside will help you decide on the best training methods to use. Remember that every cat is unique.
Instead of yelling window with cat flap to go through the flap, you should try to encourage them by giving them treats. Place an item on the other side of the flap (but not enough to see it) and then prop the flap open. Call your cat through the cat flap, while speaking in a calm, positive voice. This will help your cat learn how to use the flap because they will see that it brings them closer to the reward at the other side.
When your cat starts to take a lick or use their head to open it, you can let them out in the open and take advantage of their newfound freedom. It is important to watch your cat and ensure they are safe outdoors as certain cats are susceptible to the elements as well as other animals like cats in the area.
If you're not sure whether your cat will be in a position to handle the outdoors, you can lock your cat inside at night or leave the flap open to ensure they always have access to their litter box, puzzle feeders and toys. This will allow you to ensure that they're getting all the exercise and stimulation they require. It also gives them a way of escape from any stressful situations in the home, like when you're cooking or cleaning. They will also have the security of knowing that they will be able to return home if they wish to.