The list in brief ↴
1. Best overall cat flap: SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Connect with Hub
2. Best for simplicity: SureFlap Microchip Cat Door
3. Best on a budget: PetSafe 4-Way Locking Microchip Entry Cat Door
4. Best microchip cat flap with timer control: Cat Mate Elite Microchip Cat Flap with Timer Control
5. Best energy efficient microchip cat flap: Cat Mate Microchip Cat Door
If you're struggling with unwanted strays entering your home, then it's worth investing in the best microchip cat flap. These genius devices register your cat's unique microchip number and will only open for them - saving you and your cat from a lot of stress and hassle.
Amanda Campion, a clinical animal behaviorist, says: "An unknown cat entering the cat’s safe place of home territory can wreak havoc with the resident's cat psyche. This can cause stress, and anxiety and even make them traumatized from the experience of the strange caller into their home.
"In some cases, the human parents do not even realize that the neighboring farm cat is entering the home in search of food, or worse still, an intact female with whom to mate. Once a cat has had a negative experience like this in their safe space (home) it can take months to reverse the stress caused, so prevention is always the is always the best option when it comes to a cat's environmental safe space being contaminated."
There are lots of microchip cat flaps on the market, making it a little tricky to know which one to choose. That's why we've tested them out for you and rounded up the best options based on affordability, function, and user experience.
Practicing as a full clinical animal behaviorist member, Amanda's passion is cats – feral to feline show champion - helping to correct all their quirky unwanted issues, anxiety, and stresses that can manifest from time to time. Amanda has worked alongside charities for many years, helping rehabilitate cats from surrender and euthanasia. She previously had her own cattery, fostering and rehabilitating traumatized shelter cats, enabling them to go in to have happy lives with their new owners. She loves engaging with the cat caregivers and deciphering what problems they are having, as well as using her detective skills to find out what the cats’ problems are. As a CAB, she assists with a wide range of feline behaviors but the most rewarding to her is to see a previously traumatized or anxious cat start to trust again which is life-changing for the cat.
The quick list
The best overall microchip cat flap
A clever cat flap that you can control remotely from your phone. If you want to monitor your cat's activity and set curfews, this one is for you. Plus, it's easier than you might think to install.
The best for simplicity
When it comes to cat flaps, SureFlap knows what it's doing and this model is no exception. This design is easy to set up, simple to use, and gets the job done, keeping unwanted guests out of your home.
The best on a budget
An budget-friendly cat flap that can register up to 40 cats per household. It's a piece of cake to install, thanks to the simple one-button programming.
The best microchip cat flap with timer
A microchip cat flap that allows you to set a curfew for your pet. This one's perfect for pet parents who want to give their furry friend independence, whilst having some control over their whereabouts and safety.
The best energy efficient microchip cat flap
An energy efficient cat flap that will keep unwanted guests out of your home. It's compatible with up to 30 cats and features a handy 4-way manual locking system.
Megan Milstead is Staff Writer on PetsRadar and has been an animal lover for as long as she can remember. Whilst she's a fan of all animals, cats have a special place in her heart (especially her tabbies Nala and Chilli). She knows what it's like to have strays enter the home and understands the stress it can put on your cat. That's why she's committed to finding you the very best microchip cat flap.
The best microchip cat flap we recommend in 2024
Why you can trust PetsRadar Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Best overall microchip cat flap
✅ You're out of the house a lot: Since you can control the cat flap from anywhere in the world via an app, this one's great for when you're out and about - especially if you want reassurance that your cats are all okay.
❌ You want something simple: The fancy features might be useful for tech-savvy pet parents, but if you want something more simple, the other options might be a better shout.
🔎 SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Connect with Hub: This app-controlled cat door is perfect for pet parents who want some reassurance of their cat's whereabouts. Not only can you remotely lock and unlock the door, but you'll also get notifications of their location and have the ability to set curfews per cat.
It might not be the cheapest option on the market, but our tester Toby says the SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Connect with Hub is well worth the money.
You can control the cat flap from anywhere in the world; all you have to do is connect it to an app. This includes setting curfews, remotely locking and unlocking, getting notifications of your cat's whereabouts, and of course, stopping intruders coming in your home. Toby says these features are all "reassuring".
With so many features, you might be under the impression that it's hard to install, but Toby confirms that this isn't the case.
He says: "[Set-up is] very simple. There's a paper guide for the cut holes to make, it fits tightly with little draft, and setting up the cats is just a case of putting them on one side, pushing a button, and coaxing them through the flap with some treats. The Connect app is simple enough and can have multiple users, allowing notifications for cats coming/going and changing curfew times, etc."
Toby also notes that you can select which cats get access outside and which ones do not - perfect for when cats need to stay inside due to things like medical issues. He's also linked his cat flap to his Home Assistant (a home automation system). This allows him to set up other automations, like turning the lights on and off when he wants to know his cat is home for his medication.
He says: "We had a small issue with one of our cats learning how to ‘break out’ by picking the lock mechanism, but SureFlap provided (for free) a replacement door panel that had a 3D-printed lip over the latch which stopped that happening ever again."
You can register up to 32 cats per household and share app access with other people. It's compatible with all common microchips or their RFID collar (bought separately). If you're not sure if your cat's will work, you can check on their website. If you're thinking of installing it in glass, you'll need to buy their adaptor separately.
Best for simplicity
✅ You want something simple: This no-frills cat flap is as simple as they come and is super easy to use and set-up.
❌ You want a bit more control: Unlike the previous option, you'll have to lock and unlock this cat flap manually and you won't be able to set any curfews.
🔎 SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap: This simple cat flap has all the basics nailed, stopping intruders from getting into your home. It's simple to use, easy to clean and opens quickly for your furry friends.
Our tester Toby tried out the SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap, which he describes in three words as "reliable, robust and simple".
Toby says it's easy to use and very simple - to register a cat, you just need to push a button and coax them through the cat flap with some treats. The device can store up to 32 different cats, and even if you take out the batteries, it will still remember every pet.
The cat flap comes with a paper template to give you a helping hand with cutting the doors. However, if you're thinking of installing it in glass or a metal door, you'll need to buy their mounting adaptor separately. And if it's going in a wall, you'll need their tunnel extender.
Toby says: "It works great, [I] had some issues with the lock mechanism being popped off by our cat, but [it] was replaced half a dozen times by SureFlap without any questions (and their newer models reportedly fixed the issue entirely)."
You'll need four AA batteries to get started and when the charge starts to run low, you'll be notified with a flashing light. Toby says it's easy to clean as it's made of smooth plastic.
So, how does it weigh up against the SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Connect with Hub that Toby also tested?
He says: "If you want automatic curfews, or clarity on your pets' activities and controlling their movement for the purpose of medicines etc - the smarter one is the way to go. Otherwise, the microchip one is great - as long as you don't mind cats coming in/out all the time or manually locking it."
This one is compatible with all common identification microchips or the RFID collar tag (which can be bought separately).
Best on a budget
✅ You want the cheapest option: You don't need to buy the most expensive microchip cat flap; this one is the most affordable in the guide and keeps the intruders out.
❌ You want to install it onto a door with metal, a wall, or double-glazed glass: If you're looking to install it onto any of these surfaces, you'll need to buy an installation adaptor separately.
🔎 PetSafe 4-Way Locking Microchip Entry Cat Door: Say goodbye to unwanted furry visitors - this microchip cat flap will stop them in their tracks! It's also the most affordable option in the guide. It's easy to install, simple to use, and also features a 4-way manual locking system.
I've grown up with cats all my life, so I'm very familiar with stray cats entering the house (and the chaos that unfolds afterward). I've been woken up countless times to the sound of screeching in the kitchen at 3am so when I found out a microchip cat flap could put a stop to this, I was overjoyed.
This PetSafe option features a 4-way manual locking system and can register up to 40 cats per home (a girl can dream). Not only was it super easy to install but it also features two magnetic closing points to help keep the draught out. This makes it a great energy efficient option, something that's important to most people (including myself). It's also the most affordable option in the guide, proof that you don't need to spend the most to get results.
I was pleasantly surprised at just how easy it was to connect to my cat's microchip. I simply held down the button for five seconds, popped her head through and it was good to go. As someone who hates reading instructions, I can vouch for these - they were simple to follow, clear to read, and didn't require 100 fiddly steps.
However, if you want to install it onto a metal door, you'll need to buy an installation adaptor separately (these are around $15). The same goes for walls or double-glazed glass. It's compatible with 15-digit microchip numbers (FDX-B, 977 and 985), as well as the PetSafe Microchip Cat Door Key which can be attached to the collar.
Nala the cat was a little cautious of the cat flap at first (like she is with everything) and it took her a few tries to get used to it. But the cat flap does what it says on the tin and opens every time for her, just as promised.
You'll need four AA batteries to get started, and the cat flap will flash every 10 seconds if it's running low on charge. This means you'll have plenty of time to replace the batteries and your furry friend won't be left in the cold!
Best microchip cat flap with timer control
✅ You want to set a curfew: The timer feature allows you to set a curfew for your kitties, which is great for those who want to keep their cats in at night or on a particular day. The LCD screen also shows you the last time it was used and the lock status.
❌ You want something less bulky to look at: Whilst the LCD screen is great for updates on your cats whereabouts, it does make it look a little more bulky than the others.
🔎 Cat Mate Elite Microchip Cat Flap with Timer Control: This timer-controlled cat flap will give you peace of mind when it comes to your kitty's whereabouts. If you need to set curfews, you can easily do so via the LCD screen (which also tells you the last time they went out).
If you want a bit more control over your cat flap (without downloading yet another app), then the Cat Mate Elite Microchip Cat Flap with Timer Control is for you.
This model features an LCD screen that shows you whether your cat is in or out, the lock status, and the last time the door was used. For the latter, it can do this for up to three cats.
If you're lucky enough to own over 10 cats, you'll want to pick another model because this one has a limit of nine. It's compatible with nine, 10, and 15-digit microchips, as well as the Cat Mate I.D Discs which can be bought separately.
You'll be pleased to hear that it's draught and weather-proof, thanks to the magnetic closure and sealed flap.
If you're hoping to install this in a wall, it's worth noting that you'll need to buy the Cat Mate Elite Wall Liners separately.
This product is currently with our tester, we'll be adding more notes on this product soon.
Best energy efficient microchip cat flap
✅ You want an energy efficient option: Thanks to the draught excluding closing points, this microchip cat flap is a great option if you want to keep the cold out.
❌ You want entry and exit control: This cat flap might do the trick at keeping intruders at bay, but you won't be able to control who goes out. If you're looking for a microchip cat flap with this feature, another option will be more suitable.
🔎 Cat Mate Microchip Cat Door: Featuring a magnetic closure and fluffy weather stripping to keep the cold out, this energy-efficient cat flap is a top contender.
Microchip cat flaps can get a little pricy, especially if you're opting for one with hi-tech features. If you're looking for something that's low-key and a bit more affordable, then the Cat Mate Microchip Cat Door could be a good option for you.
You can register up to 30 cats on the device (either via microchip or a Cate Mate I.D Disc that can be bought separately), and the 4-way lock system means you have total control over your cats going in and out.
This model is a great energy-efficient option, due to its magnetic closure and fluffy weather stripping insulation.
Whilst the design stops intruders from entering your home, any animal will be able to exit. So, if you want to keep certain cats in for a particular reason, you won't be able to do this. It's compatible with 15 digit ISO, and nine and 10 digit AVID microchips, but you can buy their I.D Disc collar if your furry friend isn't microchipped.
For those who want to install a cat flap into walls or glass panels, you'll need to buy their adaptor separately.
This product is currently with our tester, we'll be adding more notes on this product soon.
How we tested the best microchip cat flap
Microchip cat flaps tend to be a little more pricy than traditional ones, so we understand you want to get it right. To save you from wasting your money, we selected high-quality cat flaps on the market and put them to the test on real cat owners. We took into consideration the following factors:
- Value for money: Everyone deserves the best microchip cat flap, which is why we tried to include a range of price points to make it more accessible.
- Set-up: No one has time to spend hours figuring out how to use a cat flap, which is why set-up was a very important testing factor. We can confirm that all of the cat flaps in this guide are easy to use with a simple set-up. The last thing you want is to buy a cat flap and not be able to use it, which is why we've let you know if you need any additional things to get started (like an app or adaptor). This means you won't have any surprises when it comes to setting it up. If you've never set one up before, here's how to install a pet door in nine easy steps.
- Additional features: Whether it connects to an app or has a timer control, we've highlighted all of the great features on these cat flaps. But for those who just want something simple, we included some more basic options too.
- Microchip: We also considered which microchips the cat flaps are compatible with and whether an alternative collar can be used instead.
- Fit for purpose: Whilst everything above is super important, the most crucial factor is whether your cats actually want to use it. We tested these products out on our own feline friends to see how easy it was for them to use. If you're spending money on a new device, you want it to work effectively, so we ensured each product does what it says on the tin and opens when they try to get through.
How to choose the best microchip cat flap
Not sure where to start when thinking about microchip cat flap specifications? Start here…
Power source
You can either have an external power source for the cat flap, or it can be battery powered. There are pros and cons to each - but batteries are often considered better overall as it gives you maximum flexibility over where to place the flap, there’s no chance of creating trip hazards with wires, and they’ll keep working even if the power supply is otherwise interrupted. If you do decide to go for a battery-powered cat flap, you might want to look for one that offers an indicator as to when the battery is running low so you can recharge or replace the batteries.
Size of cat
You’ll need to make sure that whatever cat flap you buy fits your feline friend with ease. This might sound obvious, but it’s worth double-checking the size of the aperture against the size of your cat, particularly if yours is on the large side. You’ll also need to think about whether the flap is suitably sized for where you intend to install it - such as a back door. Some will need extra accessories or adapters around the flap, which should be taken into account too.
Weather resistance
If you live somewhere that is prone to lots of rain or snow, you should also look for flaps that promise to withstand tough weather conditions.
Energy efficiency
If your cat flap is placed on a door that leads directly into a main living space, you might want to think about its weather-sealing, to keep draughts and breezes out and ensure you’re not losing valuable energy from your home. This might be slightly less important if your cat flap is placed somewhere like a porch or external area, but it’s always worth thinking about the best ways to keep the heat in. Some devices use things like a triple-flap setup to ensure there’s never a direct airflow from outside to inside.
Number of cats
If you’ve got more than one cat, you’ll need to make sure you pick a flap that can recognize multiple moggies. Most of them can do this, but, if you have cats with different needs - such as ones that shouldn’t be let out after a certain time - you’ll also need to check whether or not you can set specific rules for specific cats.
Do microchip cat flaps work?
Simple answer? Yes, they do. Once you have set them up – and assuming the batteries have not run out – these cat flaps will recognize your moggies by reading the microchip implanted into their neck, thereby allowing the little door to open. The flap should then close behind your cat and not allow any other felines with an unrecognizable chip to enter, giving a feline peace of mind.
There is, however, one way an intruder cat may be able to get in: by tailgating. This is rather unavoidable because a neighborhood cat can easily get up close to your feline's bottom and seize the opportunity to enter while the flap is still fully open. Another animal could also place a sneaky paw within an open door to prevent it from closing again.
One thing's for sure, the microchip cat flap isn't going to forcibly push a tailgating cat back but such incidents are going to be rare. In most cases, once a flap has closed again, it will lock within seconds. It's also worth pointing out that a microchip cat flap won't stop your moggy from voluntarily bringing in small animals, alive or dead, either.
How long does a microchip cat flap work?
The microchip cat flap itself should last for years – it's the batteries that will fail first. Not to worry, though, because they're easily replaceable and, if you opt for rechargeable ones, they're not going to be especially costly or inconvenient in the long run either.
The good news is that the microchip inside your cat should last for a lifetime. They are inserted into your cat by a vet and they are not known to fail or break.
Is it worth getting a microchip cat flap?
Cat flaps provide such great assistance as you know your cat can come and go even if you are not there. No more worrying about them being left outside if it starts to rain for example. But they also have a disadvantage in that every roaming feline can use them too and often they do!
To counter this magnetic cat flaps appeared but these types can ruin the cat collar rapidly and then they won’t work. Enter the microchip cat flap… which resolves all these issues and some you didn't realize you needed such as allowing some of your cats in and out but not others, they also prevent wildlife like foxes from coming into your house. Overall yes they are worth it even if they do cost a little more time and money in the setup.
Amanda says: "While traditional pet doors offer convenience, they lack the security and customization features provided by microchip-enabled cat flaps. Microchip cat flaps use a cat’s unique microchip ID to control access, ensuring that only authorized pets can enter or exit the home. This feature prevents unwanted intruders, enhances safety, and provides peace of mind for pet parents.
"Furthermore, microchip cat flaps can be programmed to restrict access during certain hours, preventing cats from roaming at night or during specific times of the day. This capability allows cat parents to maintain control over their cat’s outdoor activities while still providing the freedom and enrichment they need for optimal mental health."
Should I microchip my cat?
If you haven't microchipped your cat, you might be wondering if you need to.
Amanda says: "Microchipping offers numerous benefits for cats and their owners. Firstly, it provides a reliable method of identification, enabling lost or stray cats to be reunited with their parents swiftly. This can alleviate the stress and worry associated with losing a beloved pet and increase the likelihood of a happy reunion.
"Secondly, microchipping helps deter pet theft and illegal breeding by establishing legal ownership [...] and traceability of cats. Additionally, it promotes responsible pet ownership by encouraging owners to update their contact information regularly, ensuring accurate identification and contact in case of emergencies."
