SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap

The Bottom Line

Cat door that “keys” open by recognizing your cat’s existing microchip, thereby keeping unwelcome animal visitors out.

Manufacturer’s Site

• Works with your cat's existing microchip
• Can “learn” and recognize multiple cats’ chips
• Compatible with most common microchips
• No collar or tag to get lost or snagged
• Battery powered, no need to plug in unit
• Cost competitive with other “keyed” (collar tag) pet doors
• 2 year guarantee (from date of purchase)

• Cost is on the high side
• Cat must have microchip (they should anyway!)
• Batteries need replacement every 6-12 months

• Battery powered 4xAA not included
• White frame insert
• Clear “flap” hinged at top
• Adjustable manual lock set to fully open, exit only, enter only, or fully locked
• Can turn “off” and use as standard (no microchip key) flap
• Can be installed in external  (or internal) doors, windows and walls
• Mounting adapters and tunnel extenders available (sold separately)
• Detailed how-to instruction manual (6 languages including English)

American cat owners most typically consider it responsible to keep cats exclusively inside for safety’s sake. Owners in other countries that believe they have fewer risks may be more likely to offer outdoor access to cats via pet doors or “cat flaps.” A downside of standard pet doors is that they also allow other critters, or even the neighbor cats, to enter your home and wrangle with your pets.

Electronic pet doors allow only specific pets access usually via a collar “key” yet cats are notorious for losing collars or refusing to wear them. SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap instead is programmed to recognize a specific cat’s unique microchip, to eliminate the need for collar. Any cat allowed outside should be microchipped, which is an added expense, but also additional peace of mind. The product can also be turned off to function as a non-electronic door.

The SureFlap comes with an instruction manual detailing how to install the product in walls, doors, or windows. This product will be a boon to those with safe outdoor cat areas, or as a way to manage access to specific areas of the home in a multiple pet household. For instance, a Sureflap installed into a closed interior door would allow specific cats’ access to a room with food or litter boxes, but keep other cats (or dogs) at bay.

A push-button allows the door to be programmed for the individual cat’s microchip as the cat moves through the opening. The product can “learn” over 30 individual cats. This could be particularly helpful for cattery, shelter/rescue establishments, or feral colony management.