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The UK's bestMicrochip Cat Flaps2022 Review

Updated: April 6, 2022

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What To Look For in a Microchip Cat Flap

Cats are independent little creatures, and we all know how they like to come and go as they please. Microchip cat flaps offer cat’s their freedom, whilst also making sure that owners have peace of mind. 

The best microchip cat flat will have multiple lock options. You’ll want something that lets you keep your pet in, or out, as necessary. You might also want to consider a cat flap that will allow you to set a schedule – for example, stopping your cat from leaving after 10 pm. 

It’s also important to plan where you’ll be installing your cat flap. Most cat flaps can easily be fitted into wooden and uPCV doors. However, it is often necessary to buy an adaptor extension to fit the flap into brick or glass – but it can be done!

Some cats have microchips that are not compatible with all models of microchip cat flap. 15-digit microchips are standard, so if your cat has a 9-digit or 10-digit chip, you might want to consider a back-up plan. It can help to buy a cat flap that has a programmed collar included if you think your cat’s microchip might not work.

Although this might sound surprising, some microchip cat flaps run off mains electricity. If you don’t want to mess with running wires through your kitchen, battery-powered cat flaps are generally more convenient. Look for a model with at least an A+ energy rating and where the batteries are reported to last over six months. 

A well-designed microchip cat flap is like the most scrupulous of club bouncers. No ID? No entry! 

I’ve gone with the SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap as my top choice because it can be programmed for up to 32 (!) cats and can be installed in doors, glass or brick.

For more details about this cat flap, as well as other great alternatives, see the reviews below.

See the best Microchip Cat Flaps below

Compare Microchip Cat Flaps Here

Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature that's most important to you.

  • Our score
  • Best For
  • Size
  • Depth of Tunnel
  • Recognisable Chips
  • Locking Options
  • Timer Control

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Read Our Microchip Cat Flap Reviews

B003EGIM3O
5054242559029,4804721853510,5060180390006,4804721853527,0812472020000,0740023071105
Best microchip cat flap overall
SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap
Top Pick

Best microchip cat flap overall

  • Where to buy
    best-microchip-cat-flap SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap
    View on argos.co.ukView on Amazon
  • Our Scoring
    Design
    Features
    Installation Ease
    Value for Money
    Overall
    4 4.625
  • Size
    14.2 x 12 cm
  • Depth of Tunnel
    7 cm
  • Recognisable Chips
    32
  • Locking Options
    4
  • Timer Control
    No
  • Our Review

    The SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap is the one of the best microchip cat flaps on the market. It’s reasonably priced and offers basic, reliable features.

    With radio frequency identification, your cat’s chip acts as their very own house key. All they need to do is get close to the SureFlap cat flap, and the flap will unlock to let them in.

    Additionally, this particular cat flat gives a lot of freedom in terms of installation. It can be fitted into a door, window or wall. It requires four AA batteries, and they’ll last for approximately 12 months.

    Setting up the unit after installation is simple with one-button programming. This prevents unwanted animals from entering your home without requiring a complicated multi-step process.

    This cat flap has the capacity to remember up to 32 microchips. So, even if you’re the most renowned cat lady in the country, this door will allow only your cats in, and keep anyone else out.

    There are four options for locking the pet door: exit only, entry only, entry and exit, or locked. This gives you plenty of options to suit your needs, throughout the day and night.

    Whilst this does mean that there’s no timer control, the available settings are enough to make sure your cat is inside or outside when you want them to be. It doesn’t take much to change the lock setting either, making it easy to alter when necessary.

    One thing to be wary of is the sensors; they may require regular cleaning. When sensors are clogged with cat hair, the battery can drain because it presumes a cat is using the flap. Giving the sensors a regular wipe should reduce any problems with this SureFlap cat flap malfunctioning.

    If it’s particularly windy, you may feel a breeze coming through this cat flap. Therefore, it’s good to be mindful of its placement in your home, and advisable to put it in a low-wind area or far away from where you sleep.

    Pros

    • Programming and set-up are made simple with just one button.
    • Batteries last for up to 12 months so they don't require frequent changing.
    • Four-way lock provides a great range of settings. The ‘entry-only’ setting can be helpful if you want your cats to stay inside until after breakfast.

    Cons

    • No timer control so you can’t program different night and day settings. This must be done manually.
    • Blocked sensors must be cleaned regularly to avoid battery drainage. If blocked, sensors behave as if a cat was using the device and keeps flap open.
    • Batteries must be bought separately.

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B00FRFS8Y8
8010690111575
Best for larger cats
Ferplast Swing Cat Flap with Microchip

Best for larger cats

  • Where to buy
    best-microchip-cat-flap Ferplast Swing Cat Flap with Microchip
    View on Amazon
  • Our Scoring
    Design
    Features
    Installation Ease
    Value for Money
    Overall
    4 4.375
  • Size
    13.5 x 13.7 cm
  • Depth of Tunnel
    16.2 cm
  • Recognisable Chips
    32
  • Locking Options
    4
  • Timer Control
    No
  • Our Review

    With the Ferplast Swing Cat Flap with Microchip, even more rotund felines can enjoy the freedom of heading outside without having to ask permission. It’s one of the best microchip cat flats available in a range of different sizes.

    One common fear with buying a microchip flaps is that your cat’s microchip type won’t be compatible with the flap’s system.  This is unlikely, but can sometimes cause problems. If this is a concern, there’s be no issue with this Ferplast Cat Flap because you receive a microchipped collar as well.

    It can memorise up to 32 microchips and the four-way closing system offers: exit only, entry only, entry and exit, or locked door. There’s also a useful indicator which lets cat owners know which direction the cat last passed through – in or out!

    An issue that could arise with this cat flap is that smaller kittens may struggle at first with pushing themselves through. This is due to its slightly heavier-than-standard swing door. However, this will not be a long-lasting problem as your cat grows older and stronger. Also, six AA batteries are required and they don’t come included.

    Overall, this is a good choice if most microchip cat flaps seem too small for your cat; plus, it could also be a good option for dog owners to consider.  You can choose the size option that best suits your pet (or pets – plural!) and avoid ending up with a model that they are reluctant to use. It’s also useful that a collar comes included, in case there are any issues with your pet’s microchip.

    Pros

    • Available in multiple sizes, you can purchase this flap for bigger cats as well as other pets like dogs.
    • This four-way closing system gives you multiple options: exit only, entry only, entry and exit, or locked door.
    • You can easily see if your cat’s in or out of the house because this product has a handy ‘direction indicator’ which tells you the direction they last passed through.
    • This kit provides a microchipped collar, useful if your pet’s microchip isn’t compatible with other products.

    Cons

    • Fierce winds can cause the flap to blow open which could be a nuisance in winter.
    • Six AA batteries required and need to be supplied separately.
    • Cost varies significantly between sizes.
    • Young kittens might struggle at first as the swing door could be too heavy for them.

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B07DWTLGPG
0729849166875
Best for wooden doors
PetSafe Microchip Cat Flap

Best for wooden doors

  • Where to buy
    best-microchip-cat-flap PetSafe Microchip Cat Flap
    View on Amazon
  • Our Scoring
    Design
    Features
    Installation Ease
    Value for Money
    Overall
    4 4.3
  • Size
    14.6 x 13.5 cm
  • Depth of Tunnel
    12.2 cm
  • Recognisable Chips
    40
  • Locking Options
    4
  • Timer Control
    No
  • Our Review

    Lots of microchip pet doors get complicated when it comes to installation, requiring various additional parts to assist the process.

    If you’re putting the flap into a wooden door, this PetSafe Microchip Cat Flap requires no additional parts or adaptors to install it into a wood surface.

    Installation is also made significantly easier with the included cutting template – perfect if you want to reduce the time spent working out measurements.

    Nevertheless, adaptors will need to be bought separately if you want to install this PetSafe cat flap in a brick wall, PVC, metal or glass doors. A tunnel extension is available for installation into thicker material.

    This microchip cat flap can memorise up to 40 microchips, making it a great option for cat owners with multiple cats. It’s battery operated, and you’ll need to supply the four AA batteries yourself.

    This cat flap is fairly priced as it is fitted with four-way locking options and two magnetic closures. This secure closure method will reduce draughts and prevent cold air from getting in through the pet door. By contrast, some traditional cat flaps aren’t very windproof can sometimes feel the same as leaving a window open!

    Overall, this PetSafe cat flap is one of the best microchip cat flaps for wooden doors because installation is so straightforward. It’s also a great option for multiple cats due to its large memory.

    Pros

    • This product can store up to 40 microchips.
    • With a four-way locking system, you can choose between: exit only, entry only, entry and exit, or locked door.
    • No additional adaptors are required if you’re installing your cat flap in a wooden door.
    • With two magnetic closures, this cat flap reduces draughts in your home.

    Cons

    • You’ll have to buy an adaptor if you want to install your cat flap on a brick wall or a PVC, metal or glass door.
    • You’ll have to purchase batteries separately.
    • Only 15 digit microchip codes are compatible. It won’t allow entry to cats with 9 or 10-digit microchip codes.
    • Customers report fast battery drainage, some as quickly as 15 days.

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B00MIRNPHI
5015832373418,5057065310020,0035368003608,7101422060849,7753666494739
Best for budgets and energy efficiency
Cat Mate Microchip Activated Cat Flap

Best for budgets and energy efficiency

  • Where to buy
    best-microchip-cat-flap Cat Mate Microchip Activated Cat Flap
    View on Amazon
  • Our Scoring
    Design
    Features
    Installation Ease
    Value for Money
    Overall
    4 4.425
  • Size
    14.5 x 15 cm
  • Depth of Tunnel
    11 cm
  • Recognisable Chips
    30
  • Locking Options
    4
  • Timer Control
    No
  • Our Review

    Just because microchip pet flaps use modern technology, doesn’t mean they have to be ridiculously expensive. You can still get one with all the most important features at a reasonable price!

    The Cat Mate Microchip Activated Cat Flap has good wind proofing and a four-way locking control system. It’s one of the best options if you’re on a budget because it’s so reasonably priced.

    As well as being value for money, this product is highly energy efficient.

    Most cat owners know that even when it’s windy and rainy, cats still want to come and go. This product’s A+ rating and magnetic closures should comfort you that you won’t be getting a storm inside, even if there’s a storm outside!

    This weatherproofing gives you that extra benefit of reducing what you might spend on your heating bill, if you had a conventional cat flap.

    Its four-way lock gives you multiple selective entry options: completely locked, locked for cats to come in but not out again, locked for cats to leave but not come back in, and fully open both ways.

    This Cat Mate pet door is good value for money. It’s one of the best microchip cat flaps to buy on a budget because it works well, and also prevents excessive heat loss,

    Pros

    • Magnetic closure reduces draughts.
    • Its A+ EU energy efficiency rating ensures your batteries have a longer life.
    • Four-way lock gives you multiple options: exit only, entry only, entry and exit, or locked door.
    • Incredible value for money as it has a four-way lock and a high efficiency rating.

    Cons

    • Requires adaptor kit to be purchased separately if you want to install in a thick metal, or glass door.
    • Batteries aren’t included.
    • Customers report it’s not 100% wind proof, although this can be combatted by positioning it in a low-wind area of your home.
    • The initial programming can be an arduous process as some cats won’t sit still for the time required.

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B00MA3TH2M
5053676472584,5011569204223,5011569008654,5011569008388,5011569008630,5011569008364,5011569204452
Best for control and timer settings
Petporte Smart Flap Microchip Cat Flap

Best for control and timer settings

  • Where to buy
    best-microchip-cat-flap Petporte Smart Flap Microchip Cat Flap
    View on Amazon
  • Our Scoring
    Design
    Features
    Installation Ease
    Value for Money
    Overall
    4 4.175
  • Size
    16 x 16 cm
  • Depth of Tunnel
    5.2 cm
  • Recognisable Chips
    25
  • Locking Options
    Customisable
  • Timer Control
    Yes
  • Our Review

    If you’re someone with a busy schedule, you won’t want to be adjusting your cat flap’s settings every few hours.

    In this case, you’ll want a microchip cat flap with adjustable timer control settings.

    With the Petporte Smart Flap Microchip Cat Flap, you can set the built-in timer as needed. For example, if you have to take your cat to the vets after work, you could program the flap to be ‘entrance only’ from 6pm. This way, if your cat rolls in at 6.30pm for his dinner, he won’t be able to leave again. You’ll get home from work and can quickly scoop him up to the vets.

    This product is ideal for offering full control over your cats movements thanks to the timer settings. You can personalise the lock settings according to your schedule, day through to night.

    This cat flap stores up to 25 microchips and allows selective entry to different cats.

    It can be powered with batteries or with a power lead, although certain features use up quite a lot of battery power. The best approach is to run it off the mains if possible, and use the battery as a backup. Batteries aren’t included, but the power lead comes as standard. A longer lead can also be purchased if necessary.

    This cat flap is the most expensive on my list, perhaps as it’s the only one that offers timer control and a power lead. But if you want these additional features, it could be worth spending the extra money!

    Pros

    • Built in timer controls allow you to personalise locking settings to suit your daily schedule.
    • Can be powered with mains power as well as batteries, so you won’t have to worry about battery drainage or buying new ones.
    • Battery mode can be a brilliant back-up in case of a power-outage!
    • There’s no need to buy separate adaptors to install the cat flap to glass doors or brick walls.
    • Installation guide and cutting template are included, helping with the set-up of your new cat flap.

    Cons

    • Customers report difficulty with installation due to many fiddly parts.
    • This is an expensive choice when you consider how other microchip flaps have similar features.
    • Customers report that the machine doesn’t allow enough time to program their cat’s microchip details, as cats can be difficult to hold still.
    • Installing a power lead across a doorway can be a complicated and risky task.
    • Batteries don't come included.

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How to Choose The Best Microchip Cat Flap

Section Contents

Cat owners are all-too-aware that our feline friends love their independence. However, dealing with standard cat flaps can be a nightmare. Waking up to the neighbour’s cat in your house isn’t an uncommon occurrence.

A microchip cat flap is a great solution. They’re small, weatherproof and have a technological barrier to prevent unwanted cats from entering your home.

There are a lot of different features to look out for, so check out the following advice to help you choose a new cat flap for your home:

Where to Install Your Cat Flap

The conventional place to install a cat flap is in a door. But new cat flaps are designed in a way that makes them suitable for windows and walls too.

Make sure you purchase a cat flap that can be installed in the material of your chosen area. For example, if you want the cat flap in your conservatory, ensure the model can be installed in glass. The same goes for brick walls and PVC, metal and wooden doors.

Some microchip cat doors must be purchased with additional adaptors if you want to install them in different materials (such as glass). These adaptors will be an extra cost, so its worth pre-planning to avoid any unnecessary complications.

Prepare Your Budget

Whilst conventional cat flaps generally cost between £10 and £15, microchip cat flaps are more expensive because of the technology they contain. Microchip cat flaps can vary in price depending on their features. If you choose one with a four-way lock and good weatherproofing, expect to be spend at least £40. Certain features can double this figure.

Different Control Settings

The best microchip cat flaps enable you to lock out unwanted furry visitors without taking away your pet’s freedom. The cat flap will recognise your cat’s chip and unlock the flap for them.

This is the most basic setting; however, these cat flaps can get a lot more technical. For example:

  • Some microchip cat flaps can be programmed to allow entry, but not exit. This lets you lock the flap at night – so once your cat’s in, they can’t wander off again. Other settings include completely locked, completely unlocked, and allowing exit but not entrance.
  • Advanced microchip cat flaps have timer settings. These enable you to pre-set a 24-hour schedule. For example, if you don’t want your cats out at night you can set it to ‘entrance only’ between 9pm and 6am.

Weatherproofing

Most products will be labelled as weatherproof, but the best way to gauge this is by looking at customer feedback. You don’t want the cat flap to let all the heating out.

Some cat flaps have magnetic strips which secure the flap when it’s not in use. This is a good protective measure against wind.

Certain cat flaps have an energy efficiency rating. This is a good measure of how weatherproof they are. The better the weatherproofing, the less money you’ll spend on heating bills!

Battery Life and Power Leads

While battery-powered microchip cat flaps are the most common, some pet doors connect to the mains. The majority of microchip cat flaps take AA batteries; however, make sure to buy the best quality batteries you can. You might grow tired of frequently rebuying new batteries depending on how energy efficient your cat flap is.

Some cat flaps have the option of being plugged into a power socket. This is a great option if you don’t want to be buying batteries again and again over its lifespan. However, as cat flaps are often installed in doors, power leads need to be set up safely. Make sure you leave enough slack for the cord, so when the door is opened and closed the cord isn’t strained or broken.

The Size of Your Cat Flap

Standard sized cat flaps measure around 15 x 15 cm, with the entire frame measuring about 21 x 21 cm.

If you have bigger cats, or even want to buy a flap for a small dog, you may need to look for a larger size. Certain cats can be fearful of getting stuck in the pet door, so it’s better to go slightly bigger rather than waste money on something they won’t use.

Some microchip cat flaps on the market offer sizes large enough to fit a Labrador! The most important thing is to measure your pet before purchasing.

Installing a Microchip Cat Flap

Not all cat flaps are the same, so make sure to check your product’s instructions before beginning. Installation generally follows these steps:

1. Measure the distance between your cat’s belly and the floor. This is the height of your cat flap. Mark a line on the door or wall at the same distance from the floor.

2. Hold up the cat flap to your chosen surface. Align the bottom of the frame with the line you have drawn. Use a spirit level to ensure the frame is straight.

3. Using a pencil, mark the shape of the inside of the frame onto your wall or door. Some cat flaps will come with installation kits including a cutting template, so you don’t have to work this bit out yourself.

4. Put aside the frame and drill holes – one in each corner of the shape you have pencilled.

5. Cut into the outlined shape using a jigsaw. This step can vary depending on the material you are working with.

6. Push the tunnel of the cat flap through the hole you’ve created. Ensure the correct side is facing inwards.

7. Swapping to the outside of your house, place the external frame onto the flap. Using a pencil, mark the spots where you’ll need to drill.

8. Remove the tunnel of the cat flap. Drill holes in the required area, ensuring you don’t go through your door all the way.

9. Place the cat flap and tunnel into position. Using a screwdriver, screw in the nails provided and place on any screw caps if included.

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Microchip Cat Flap FAQs

How does a microchip cat flap work?

Microchip cat flaps use radio frequency identification (RFI) technology to recognise your cat’s microchip ID. When it recognises the programmed microchip, it unlocks the flap to let your cat in. Other unregistered cats won’t be allowed in.

Should I lock my cat flap at night?

If , as a cat owner, you’re worried about intruder pets coming into your home at night, a microchip cat flap is a great solution. This way, your cat can still come and go, but you won’t be disturbed by cat fights in your living room! Alternatively, you can lock your cat flap at night if your cat has a good routine and won’t disturb you.

How big does a cat flap need to be?

Cats can usually get through any sized hole, as long as it’s larger than their head. A standard cat flap measure about 15 x 15cm, with the entire frame measuring about 21 x 21cm. Flaps for bigger cats and small dogs could be between 21 x 21cm and 40 x 40cm.

How do I stop other cats coming through my cat flap?

Intruder cats may be looking for food. To minimise this risk, move any bowls of food away from your cat flap. However, the most effective method is installing a microchip cat flap. This is a proven way to deny access of intruder cats.

Although rare, be aware that a small number of cat owners owners report clever cats still finding their way in via the microchip pet door, even if they haven’t been programmed. Very determined cats may use their claws to open the flap, or run in immediately after the registered microchipped cat. But these instances aren’t common.

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Microchip Cat Flaps Price Comparison

Every day DIY Garden scans thousands of products to help you find the cheapest prices. Not only do we want to help you find the best products through our in-depth testing, but we also want to help you find the best places to buy them too. We’re working hard to expand our network of retailers, and will be continually adding in new options.

The Cheapest Microchip Cat Flap Prices Found Today

best-microchip-cat-flap SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap
SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap

£66.50

argos.co.uk
Buy
best-microchip-cat-flap Ferplast Swing Cat Flap with Microchip
Ferplast Swing Cat Flap with Microchip

£103.00

Buy
best-microchip-cat-flap PetSafe Microchip Cat Flap
PetSafe Microchip Cat Flap

£66.95

Buy
best-microchip-cat-flap Cat Mate Microchip Activated Cat Flap
Cat Mate Microchip Activated Cat Flap

£49.99

Buy
best-microchip-cat-flap Petporte Smart Flap Microchip Cat Flap
Petporte Smart Flap Microchip Cat Flap

£86.95

Buy

Prices last updated: 17 May, 2022

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About Your Guide

  • Clive Harris

    Clive Harris is the creator of DIY Garden and a professional landscape gardening consultant with over 6 years experience. In his spare time he enjoys testing the latest gardening equipment and sharing his experiences here on the site. And of course, he absolutely loves his garden and spends many happy hours outside each week growing, mowing, and having fun with his three kids.
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