Best Microchip Cat Flaps 2026: Top Models Compared and Reviewed

Best Microchip Cat Flaps 2026: Top Models Compared and Reviewed

Microchip cat flaps are now standard for pet owners who want selective entry, reduced unwanted visitors and clear activity tracking. For UK homeowners and trade professionals, the right choice depends on door or window type, the microchip standard in use, security needs and whether you need remote access. Below are the top models for 2026, followed by practical fitting advice and trade tips for a reliable installation.

Top picks for 2026: overview

• SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap Connect: smart hub, app control and activity logs; ideal for households wanting remote management
• SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap (standard): battery-powered, reliable chip recognition and simple four-way lock modes; cost-effective for most installs
• Staywell by PetSafe Microchip Cat Flap: robust build, straightforward programming and good compatibility with UK microchips; often chosen for trade installations
• Cat Mate Microchip Cat Flap: budget-conscious option with solid RFID reading and easy fit options for doors and panels

What to look for when choosing a microchip cat flap

Key technical considerations for UK customers are microchip compatibility, read range, power source and the locking mechanism. Ensure the unit states compatibility with ISO 11784/11785 (FDX-B) microchips; that is the standard implanted by most UK vets. Battery models are simplest to retrofit; expect battery life measured in months depending on activity and temperature. Connected models use a Wi-Fi hub or proprietary bridge to enable app features: logs, remote lock/unlock and battery alerts.

Model highlights and trade notes

• SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap Connect: Offers remote monitoring and entry logs via an app; hub plugs into broadband rather than hard wiring, which makes installation quick. Trade tip: advise customers about hub placement to ensure strong signal to the flap if fitted in a thick wall or metal-framed door.
• SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap (standard): Battery powered, durable and straightforward to program; good for multiple-cat households. For trade installers this is a reliable, repeatable fit for uPVC and composite doors.
• Staywell / PetSafe Microchip models: Known for robust flaps and simple mechanical lock options; useful where customers prioritise physical locking over app features. Check which models are recommended for glass adaptors if fitting into a glazed unit.
• Cat Mate Microchip Flap: A cost-effective choice for landlords and property managers; fewer advanced features but solid RFID reading and easier stock control for trade accounts.

Installation: DIY and trade guidance

Measure first: record your cat’s shoulder height and width; add at least 20mm to the width for comfortable clearance. Standard centre height from finished floor level is usually around 150mm to 200mm for an average adult cat; adjust for kittens or elderly pets. Always cut the hole at a suitable height for the animal, not simply at an aesthetic centre point.

Fitting into different materials requires different techniques:

• uPVC doors: use the manufacturer template. Most uPVC flaps clamp through the door with inner and outer frames; avoid expanding screws that can distort frame seals. Use stainless screws supplied; pre-drill pilot holes to avoid hairline cracks.
• Composite doors: these are typically hollow or foam-cored; remove the door to access the internal core, cut the aperture with a jigsaw and install a reinforcing plate if required; refit trims and ensure the outer frame compresses evenly to avoid rattles.
• Timber doors: use a router or jigsaw to cut the aperture, fit the inner and outer frames with wood screws and seal with exterior-grade silicone to prevent water ingress.
• Glass and double-glazed units: do not attempt to cut sealed units yourself. Arrange for a replacement IGU with pre-cut aperture or fit a glass cat-flap kit using a specialist glazier; altering an existing sealed unit will invalidate its thermal warranty.

Electrical and connectivity considerations

Battery-only models minimise wiring work and are quick to install; they are preferable where running power is difficult. Connected models require a hub and reliable Wi-Fi. Trade installers should advise clients about signal strength and recommend a Wi-Fi survey if the door or wall is likely to attenuate the signal. For connected units, position the hub centrally to the property and check that the signal reaches the flap location before final fitting.

Security, weatherproofing and durability

Choose flaps with multiple lock modes: unlocked, in-only, out-only and fully locked. A mechanical deadbolt or strong magnetic lock improves resistance to forced entry; recommend this when installing in external doors. Weather seals and brush strips reduce drafts; look for flaps with thermally efficient panels if the flap is in a door used for heating. Use exterior-grade silicone at perimeter joints and stainless fixings to prevent corrosion.

Practical trade advice

• Create a job checklist: measure cat; confirm microchip standard; verify door material; test Wi-Fi if required; list parts and fixings needed for the specific door type.
• Stock common gaskets, reinforcing plates and stainless fixings so you can complete the job first visit; customers appreciate same-day completion.
• Document warranty and maintenance instructions: advise on battery replacement intervals, cleaning the reader eye and how to register new microchips or collars.

Recommended Products

Based on this article, you may find these products helpful:

• In-Line Window Mechanism
• Offset Window Mechanism
• Cat Mate Electromagnetic Cat Flap
• B003 Bubble Gasket
• B004 Bubble Gasket

Conclusion and next steps

Choosing the best microchip cat flap depends on the property, the cat population and whether remote management is needed. For most retrofit installs the standard SureFlap or Staywell microchip models are robust and straightforward; for remote monitoring select a Connect-style model. Trade professionals should stock templates, reinforcement plates and gaskets to speed installations and protect door integrity.

Next steps: review the full technical resources at our pillar page /guides/pet-flaps for fitting templates and accessory parts. If you are a trade customer, contact Window Hardware Store for trade pricing, bulk orders and installation support; if you are a homeowner, gather door measurements and microchip details before ordering to ensure a smooth fit.