If you’re looking to give your cat more independence while still keeping your home secure, a great solution is to install a smart cat door. These high-tech pet doors have changed the game for cat access, offering better control and monitoring features – and keeping out unwanted pets and intruders! – while still letting cats come and go as they please.

A smart cat door works in a similar way to a regular pet door, except it’ been upgraded with modern technology. Instead of a simple flap that any animal can push through, smart cat doors use identification systems to recognize your specific cat (or cats) before letting them in or out. Think of it as having a doorman who knows exactly which cats belong in your home.

These doors connect to your home’s Wi-Fi, and work with smartphone apps, so you can control and monitor your cat’s outdoor adventures from anywhere. It’s a big step up from traditional pet doors, and gives you much more information about your cat’s daily habits.

The best doors also have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out inclement weather and drafts, keeping your home comfortable year-round.

Most smart cat doors use microchip technology to identify your cat.

If your cat already has a microchip (which many do for identification purposes), the door can read that same chip. When your cat approaches, a scanner in the door detects their unique microchip number, and if it matches one in the system, the door unlocks automatically.

Some smart doors use special collar tags instead of – or along with – microchips. These collars have RFID chips or similar wireless technology that talks to the door. When your cat gets close enough, the door recognizes the signal and opens up.

More advanced models include extra features like motion sensors to detect when your cat is coming, while some even have basic facial recognition technology.

We believe that investing in a smart cat door offers five major advantages over regular pet doors:

1. Enhanced Security

The biggest benefit is security. Traditional pet doors are open invitations for stray cats, raccoons, and other unwanted animals to come into your home. Smart doors solve this problem by only opening for the cats you choose can have access.

2. Convenience

Smart cat doors mean you don’t need to manually let your cat in and out. Whether you’re away from home or busy with your household tasks, your cat can move freely, reducing stress for both you and your pet.

3. Control

You also get much better control over when your cat can go outside. Using the smartphone app, you can set specific times when the door works and when it doesn’t. Want to keep your cat inside during bad weather or at night? You can do that easily from your phone.

4. Energy Efficiency

Many smart cat doors are designed with insulated flaps and secure sealing mechanisms to prevent drafts, helping to maintain your home’s temperature and reduce energy costs.

5. Customization

With app-controlled models, you can set specific permissions for each cat, create schedules, and receive usage notifications, allowing for a tailored experience that suits you and your cat’s needs.

As well as all the benefits of a smart cat door, there are a few points to keep in mind,

Firstly, smart cat doors cost quite a bit more than regular pet doors, and you might need to pay for professional installation too, which adds to the expense.

Secondly, most of these doors run on batteries, which means you’ll need to recharge or replace them regularly. How often depends on how much your cat uses the door and which model you choose. Many doors will alert you through the app when the battery is getting low, but it’s still something you need to stay on top of.

Also, if you’re not comfortable with technology, setting up and managing a smart cat door might feel overwhelming at first. The doors connect to Wi-Fi and use smartphone apps, so there’s definitely a learning curve. Plus, like any connected device, they can sometimes have connectivity problems or software issues.

When shopping for a smart cat door, start by thinking about your cat’s size and weight. All doors have limits, and you want to make sure your cat can get through comfortably and safely.

If you have multiple cats, look for doors that can register several pets. Some can store dozens of pet profiles, while others are more limited. Make sure the door you choose can handle all your cats.

Think about power options too. Battery-powered doors give you more flexibility in where you can install them, but you’ll need to change batteries regularly. Some newer models have rechargeable batteries or even solar charging.

Check out the smartphone app features before deciding. Some apps offer detailed tracking and lots of control options, while others just cover the basics. Make sure the app works with your phone and gets regular updates from the company.

Here are what we believe are the best 5 smart cat doors you can currently buy, broken down into categories to help you choose. The categories we decided to go with are:

The SureFlap PetCare Microchip Cat Flap is uses microchip recognition to read your cat’s microchip to give them access to your house – or, if you prefer, you can purchase programmable collar tags instead.

Pros:

• Microchip and Collar Tag Recognition – Uses your cat’s existing microchip to let them in; or if your cat doesn’t have a chip, you can purchase collar tags instead.
• Versatile Installation – Can be installed in doors, windows, or walls with appropriate accessories.
• Selective Access Control – Completely stops strange cats or other unwanted animals from coming into your house.
• Multi-Pet Capability – Can recognize and allow entry & exit for up to 32 cats.
• Battery-Powered Operation – Long-lasting battery life (up to 12 months), and has low battery indicator.
• Reliable Technology – Proven microchip scanning system that’s widely trusted by pet owners.

Cons:

• Initial Cost – Higher upfront investment compared to basic manual cat flaps, though it offers so much more than basic cat flaps ever can.

Our next choice is the PetSafe Microchip Cat Door which gives microchip access (or collar tag if you prefer) for up to 40 cats:

Pros:

• Easy installation – Simple instructions and quick setup process that doesn’t require complex steps.
• Multi-cat household friendly – Can program up to 40 different microchips into the system.
• Exclusive microchip access – Only allows programmed cats to enter while keeping out strays, wild animals, and pests.
• Versatile 4-way manual locking – Control settings include ‘In or Out’, ‘In Only’, ‘Out Only’ or ‘Fully Locked’.
• Good battery life – Uses 4 AA batteries with estimated battery life up to 12 months.
• Durable Construction: Made from robust materials that resist wear and tear, ensuring longevity.
• Weather protection – Features weatherproof brush seal to help keep out drafts.

Cons:

• Installation limitations – Metal, glass, brick and wall installations require additional accessories sold separately (around $15), and metal can interfere with performance.

The PetSafe Petporte Smart Flap Cat Door is the best model if you want to install it yourself. It’s super-easy to fit into all types of materials, including wood, brick, PVC, metal and glass:

Pros:

Cons:

• Battery Backup: Some functions will not work if operated on the battery backup.

The Petcare SureFlap DualScan Microchip Cat Flap has a simple One Button Control which allows you to program separate entry and exit access for each of your cats:

Pros:

• DualScan Technology – Equipped with advanced DualScan Technology that allows you to set separate entry and exit permissions for each cat.
• High capacity memory – Can be programmed for up to 32 cats.
• Universal compatibility – Compatible with all microchips worldwide.
• Simple programming – Simple one button programming means it’s easy to change your cats’ permissions at any time.
• Long battery life – 12 month battery life using 4 AA batteries.
• Proven reliability – Rated as the overall winner in professional reviews

Cons:

• Size limitations for larger cats – The flap opening is smaller than average cat doors at only 4.72″ height, which may cause difficulty for tall cats or cats weighing over 11 lbs.
• Delayed response time – There is a slight delay between the microchip getting read and the latch unlocking, which means cats can’t run through the door instantly.

The Cat Mate Microchip Cat Flap is an excellent budget choice, which is highly affordable and easy to operate:

Pros:

• High capacity for multiple cats – Can register up to 30 cats on the device, making it suitable for multi-cat households.
• 4-way lock system – Features an easy-to-use rotary 4-way lock that gives complete control over your cats’ access to and from the house.
• Energy efficient design – Great energy-efficient option due to the magnetic closure and fluffy weather-stripping insulation.
• Weather-resistant construction – Draught- and weather-proof design with fully brush-sealed flap and magnetic closure.
• Versatile installation options – Suitable for single and multiple glazing, UPVC/metal doors, walls, and wooden doors, self-lining to 85mm thick.
• Easy programming – Easy to program and the chip reader works consistently with cats’ microchips.

Cons: 

• The biggest complaint from users is that “the flap is sometimes loud”

Installing a smart cat door can be a DIY project, but it depends on the type of door and your DIY skills. A number of models are designed for easy installation in standard doors and come with detailed instructions and templates.

So if you’re comfortable using basic tools like a drill, jigsaw, and screwdriver, you can likely install one yourself in a couple of hours.

If, however, you want to install your smart cat door in a sliding glass door or a wall, then it’s best to consult a professional.

If you are ready to do it yourself, though, here’s a step-by-step overview of what to do:

1. Choose the Right Location

Select a door that provides easy access for your cat while maintaining home security. If possible, avoid door with extreme weather exposure or heavy foot traffic. Measure your cat’s height and width to ensure proper positioning—the bottom of the flap should be 2-3 inches above the ground.

2. Gather Your Tools

You’ll need a jigsaw or reciprocating saw, a drill with various bits, a measuring tape, pencil, level, and safety equipment. Most smart cat doors include a paper template, screws, and weather stripping. It’s a good idea to have a friend available to help hold the door during installation.

3. Mark and Cut the Opening

Use the provided template to trace the opening on your door. Double-check measurements before cutting. Drill pilot holes at each corner, then carefully cut along the marked lines using your saw. Sand rough edges smooth to prevent splinters.

4. Install the Door

Insert the cat door frame into the opening, ensuring it sits flush and level. Secure with the provided screws, typically from both sides of the door. Apply weather stripping around the frame to prevent drafts and moisture infiltration.

5. Program and Test

Follow manufacturer instructions to connect the door to your Wi-Fi network and smartphone app. Program your cat’s microchip or attach the included RFID collar tag. Test the door’s functionality by having your cat approach from both sides, adjusting sensitivity settings as needed for reliable operation.

Smart cat doors represent a real improvement in pet door technology. They offer security, convenience, and information that traditional doors simply can’t match. While they cost more upfront and need more maintenance than regular pet doors, many cat owners find the benefits are worth it.

The key is finding a door that fits your needs, budget, and comfort level with technology.

Remember, the goal is to make things better and safer for everyone. With the right smart cat door, your cat gets the freedom they want while you get the security and peace of mind you need. It’s a win-win situation that can really improve your daily routine and your relationship with your feline friend.