Training for a Cat Door

There always comes a time when you wish your cat could just let him or herself in. If you are tired of hearing your cat meowing at the door and climbing the screen, it may be time to install a cat door. You can also train your cat to alert you when they are ready to come in.

One way to know when your cat needs back in is to place a bell on a string that hangs from the door handle. When the cat wants in, the can simply ring the bell. It won’t take your cat long to figure this out. A small bell is perfect for the cat to play with and they are very inexpensive. The string should hang down low enough that the cat does not have to jump to reach it. You can also use a catnip spray to attract the cat to the bell.

When you place your cat outside you will want to watch out for him. If the cat wants inside show him the bell. When the cat rings the bell, give him a treat as a reward. As you help the cat ring the bell, you will need to open the door and allow him in as well. This will help put the two actions together for the cat. You can also install a cat door for your cat.

There are new doors that work on an infrared remote that your cat wears on its collar. The door only opens for your cat when it detects the sensor. This ensures that only your cat gets in and that he can’t invite the whole neighborhood into your house. Measure your cat’s height and width to ensure that you get a door that fits your cat.

The cat will not automatically use these doors. You will have to help them by holding a treat on one side of the door and encouraging them to go in and out the door. Once they realize that they can do this they will be able to go in and out on their own. Once the cat realizes this there will be no more late night meowing fits to get back inside.