Microchip Cat Doors Please Fickle Felines

Felines have fickle personalities and can change their mind quickly—just ask any cat owner. For the pet owner who has a cat who constantly dithers about staying in or going out, microchip cat doors can make life much more peaceful. If a recent game of “let me in” and “let me out” with the family cat has parents and/or kids frustrated, consider going high-tech with microchip cat doors. This handy door allows approved cats access into the home, but keeps interested and curious strays out.

How Smart Is a Microchip Pet Door?

These doors are able to recognize the permitted pet by a quick scan of the animal. The invisible scanner searches for an identification number, usually located between the pet’s shoulder blades. (Some pet owners prefer to use a microchipped collar, instead.)  This security layer won’t fail to recognize the pet as he approaches the door.

Will My Pet Need to be Trained to Use the Door? 

In many cases, yes, the cat will need basic training, but this is usually a quick process. Some ways one can interest the pet to use the door is to have him watch another pet use it. If that is not a possibility, the pet owner should tape the flap up and play a game with the cat. Leave the cat inside and step outside for this training session. Shake his favorite toy in the cat door to tempt him to come through. Put your hand through the entrance to demonstrate how he or she can go through the door. A treat can also come in very handy to entice the cat through the cat door.

It may take a bit of time to train a cat to use the door, but it is a handy feature to have in a busy home.