As the name suggests, a locking cat flap is a cat door flap that locks. It will use either microchip recognition, a special Pet Mate I.D. disc that fixes onto your cat’s collar or a manual locking mechanism to keep shut.

There are three main types of locking cat flap. One that uses electronics to recognize your cat’s microchip and will unlock when they approach. One that uses a special Pet Mate I.D. disc to recognise the cat and one that has a manual lock.

Often, those locking cat flaps that work with microchips will also work with those ID discs to offer two methods of entry.

If your cat approaches the cat flap, it will open and allow them to enter and exit. If a neighbour’s cat without the microchip or Pet Mate I.D. disc approaches, the door remains locked.

Locking cat flaps from Closer Pets are very easy to fit. They can be a direct replacement for an existing cat flap or can be installed by a competent DIYer.

For a fresh installation, you’ll need to mark the door or wall where you want to install the locking cat flap. Measure twice and cut once! Fit the door either side, fill any gaps between the door and hole and fasten together. That’s all there is to it.

If you have a glass door, you’ll need to consult a glazier to either cut a hole for you or provide glass with a hole already prepared.

Locking cat flaps can also be used with wall tunnels too!

You don’t have to use a locking cat flap if you don’t want to but there are significant benefits for doing so. If you want to keep your cat indoors or outdoors at night, you can lock the door.

If you have lots of cats in your street who like to ‘visit’ at night, a locking cat flap can help keep them out. Your own cat will be able to come and go as they please but other cats won’t be able to do the same!

No, locking cat flaps do not need mains power. They are powered by batteries, usually AA batteries. They fit into the cat flap and will typically last up to a year with steady use.

We believe batteries offer the flexibility and ease of installation we need with the reliability we want. Just remember to check or change the batteries once a year to avoid a disgruntled cat!