When pet owners get a pet door installed, such as a cat flap, they usually worry about the safety of the pet door. Even though it is the weakest entry point to a home, it is always good to consider security, especially if you have a large pet door.
Although we can help install a range of secure cat flaps, including Sureflap, there are a few things that you can do to ensure your cat flap is fully protected.
Our Top Tips To Protect Your Cat Flap
Use a ‘Beware of dog’ sign
Adding this sign is a great way to let the intruder know there is a dog on your property, even if you do not have a dog, because cat signs are not as common. It will also make intruders think twice before entering your home.
Use a discreet location
Installing a pet door in a less obvious location is great. Our cat flap fitters are on hand to help install cat flaps in windows and doors. If you are unsure where the best place to install a cat flap is, read through our blog here.
Install an electronic pet door
Adding an electronic pet door, such as a microchip cat flap, can simplify your life. A special tab could be added to your pet collar or a microchip so only your pet can enter and leave your home whenever it wants.
Use a pet door lock
Even though many pet doors come along with plastic locking covers, you can always upgrade to enhance your pet door to get a heavy-duty lock.
Use a correct size pet door
Pet owners often choose larger pet-size doors and intruders, making it easier to break in. You need to ensure you get all the correct cat measurements and find the best-sized door suited for your cat.
Implement motion-activated lighting
By placing motion-activated lights close to your cat flap, you may alert people to prospective intruders and frighten them. This increased visibility improves overall security by decreasing the likelihood of someone trying to enter your property covertly.
Utilise surveillance cameras
Surveillance cameras installed around your cat flap area allow you to continuously see anything that happens. With the use of smartphone applications and modern technologies, you can monitor your property even while you're not at home.
Apply deterrent sprays or ultrasonic devices
Unwelcome animal odours or noises are released by deterrent sprays and ultrasonic devices, discouraging them from approaching your cat flap. These non-intrusive techniques deter intruders without endangering the environment or your pets.
Regularly check for signs of tampering
Develop the practice of checking your cat flap's surrounds for indications of attempted access or manipulation. Examine any scratches, damage, or strange markings that would point to an attempt to get past the protection mechanisms.
Keep your pet indoors at night
If you want to increase security even further, think about keeping your cat indoors at night, when most break-ins take place. This lessens the possibility that your pet may come into contact with other animals or possible threats, protecting them and reducing the need for ongoing supervision of the cat flap.
Schedule locking times
You may restrict access to certain parts of the day or night by setting specified locking schedules for various electronic pet doors. When you're not there to watch your pet's outdoor activities, this function is very helpful for keeping them safely indoors.
Speak to an expert cat flap fitter in Nottingham, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, or the other areas covered by calling us on 0330 133 1655.
Install a secondary barrier
A second line of defence against trespassers may be added by placing a security grille or gate in front of the cat flap. This physical barrier improves overall security by making it more difficult for unauthorised people to enter your property.
Use smart home integration
By connecting your microchip cat flap to a smart home system, you can monitor and manage entry to your house from a distance. Every time the cat flap is opened, you may receive notifications on your smartphone that provide you with up-to-date information on your pet's whereabouts and any possible security breaches.
Regularly update microchip information
Make sure the information on your pet's microchip corresponds to your current contact information. Having up-to-date information on file with the microchip database enhances the likelihood of a happy reunion with your pet in the case of a loss or malfunction of the microchip cat flap.
Train your cat to use the cat flap
It's essential for your cat's protection and security that they learn how to utilise the microchip cat flap correctly. Treats and praise are examples of positive reinforcement tactics that might help your cat approach and comfortably use the cat flap. Most cats can quickly pick up the new doorway with enough patience and consistency.
Get in touch with a cat flap installer
If you need help choosing the right-sized pet door, our fitters will be happy to guide you through it. Simply send us a message using our contact form, and we'll get back to you shortly.
