by Sun Meilan

Created on: August 20, 2010

If you have cats, you have almost certainly thought about having a cat flap fitted, and there are a number of benefits to doing so. However, there are also a number of disadvantages. Before you consider fitting a cat flap, weigh up both sides of the argument before making a choice. Some of the disadvantages include: 

*Not knowing where your cat is

Some people prefer to know where their cats are. Once a cat flap is fitted and your cats can come and go at will, you can never be completely sure whether they are in the house or not. Although you can lock cat flaps in different directions, you may still have difficulty getting them in when you need them - such as before a vet's visit. 

*Other cats coming in

You may find that your house becomes the local cat centre with your neighbour's cats dropping in uninvited for a meal. This can cause problems for your cats, who probably won't like it, and you, because you already have all the cats you want and don't want to have to pay out to feed more. There is also the chance that they could move in or cause damage. 

*Problems with magnetic/infra-red cat flaps

Although magnetic/infra-red cat flaps can solve a number of issues, especially that of unwanted cats coming in, because the door should only recognise your cats' collar, there have been numerous reports of problems. On occasion, the collar hasn't been recognised when it should have been, leaving the cat outside. There have also been reports that magnetic collars attract metal in the home. 

*Bringing in presents

Cats are natural hunters and, provided that they go outside, are likely to find birds, rodents and other animals at one point or another. If you have a cat flap, they will quite likely bring their prey into the house. If it is already dead, that isn't a major problem for most people; unfortunately, cats often bring their prey in live and then you have to spend hours trying to catch it as it dives under furniture to hide. 

*Cats concerned about territory

There have been reports of cats becoming upset by cat flaps, whether other cats come in or not, feeling threatened about their territory. They may become anxious and start spraying around the house, which can smell and is certainly unhygienic. In time, your cat should become used to it, but it can be traumatic in the short-term. 

*Can ruin the door

Cat flaps are generally easy to fit. However, if you are not great at DIY and you make a mess of it, you may end up ruining your door and eventually having to replace it. Ideally, you should get someone to fit it for you, but this can be an added expense that you may not have expected and may not want. 

Most of the problems above can be solved with some thought and experimentation, but you may not want the hassle in the first place. Think carefully before you decide. 

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