Hi All
We are looking get a good cat flap as we have a problem with other neighbourhood cats getting into our house.
I know that there are various types (infrared, magnetic etc.) and was wondering what people would recommend in their experiences?
Thanks
lillythepink Fri 28/03/08 10:40
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Hi there lilly,
We have 4 cats(although due to age only 2 go out much).
We have a basic in/out/locked cat flap,but we live in a very rural area and(in 9 years) have only seen one other cat in our garden!
The basic cat flap(as above) is OK,but if you have neighbourhood cats who might come in is not very useful.Of course you can put it to "out only" but this defeats the purpose as it would stop your cats from coming in.
You can get a cat flap that comes with a magnet for collars on the cats that opens the flap,but the magnets are large,some cats object to them,and they can get caught in branches etc.
I haven't come across the Infra Red type,so can't comment.
Your probably know that you can now get your cat microchipped(for owner & address) but it can also be used (with the correct type of cat flap) to open the flap too!
For the last one you would have to consult your vet,or check on the make of cat flap.
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I have a magnetic catflap after 2 other cats used to come in my house and eat my cats's food! It works fine and it was very satisfying seeing the other cat trying and failing to get in!! I got it from Argos, think it was about £20
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I have just bought a Pet Porte - which only allows your cat's microchip to open it ! (Thanks again for the hint on this InAPickle). It wasn't cheap (around £100... just say it quickly lol) but it does mean that only your cat can get in though it and your cat doesn't have to wear a bulky heavy magnet around its neck (which might also be dangerous if it got caught on something). I understand that up to 12 different microchips can be programmed into it as well.
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A friend had to upgrade her cat flap a few years ago for exactly the same reasons but the intruders upset her two so much they started toilet scent marking! She gets all sorts of metal presents from her two - screws, wire, nuts & bolts. She had a problem initially with her nervous female cat not being able to operate the flap but resolved it by putting a block of wood outside to act as a cat step so the magnet operated the door more easily. I know, it sounds eccentric to me too! But it worked. However, don't wait too long to change the flap because her cats still aren't convinced that they're totally safe 2 years after the change. We think it's because the 'intruding' went on for years too.
Also she keeps a couple of spare collars plus magnetic tags so that if either loses a collar or magnet she can replace immediately.
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