A cat flap in a rented apartment can not only cause problems with the landlord, but also has other disadvantages. In this practical tip, we reveal which ones and present some alternatives.
Alternatives to a cat flap in a rented apartment
Cats love freedom. They want to decide for themselves when they go outside and come back in. Especially if you live on an upper floor as a tenant, it can be difficult to allow your four-legged friend unproblematic access to the apartment. For tenants of a rented apartment, however, installing a cat flap can be a problem. We present three alternatives for you.
- Electronic motion detector: The motion detector is a kind of cat bell. It emits a sound or light signal as soon as your cat stands in front of it. To do this, you need to install it in the place where your four-legged friend usually enters the home. This will save you a long wait at the door.
- Kick mat with bell: These mats are placed under hallway mats. Store owners usually use them to hear a customer entering the store.
The system also works for cats. As soon as they sit down on the mat to wait, a signal is triggered in the home and you can let your cat in. - Attention: The two alternatives mentioned above naturally have the disadvantage that you have to be at home, as you have to open the door yourself when the signal sounds. So if you are on vacation, this type of cat access can be a problem.
- Cat door latch: Even inside the home, there is a risk of a door slamming shut and blocking the cat’s access to its food or litter tray. You can prevent this with a cat door latch.
The disadvantages of a cat flap
With a cat flap, your four-legged friend can get back into your home at any time. It doesn’t matter whether you are at home or not. This is a great advantage. However, you should be aware of the disadvantages before installing a cat flap.
- If you install a cat flap in a rented apartment without the landlord’s consent, it can cause a lot of trouble. Even if your landlord has allowed you to install it, you will usually have to return the apartment as you found it when you move out, i.e. without the cat flap.
- With a mechanical cat flap with a two-way swing door, you also have to be prepared for unexpected visits from other cats. This cannot happen with a cat flap with a chip. Only your own cat has access to your home.
- A mechanical cat flap also has the disadvantage that cold can enter your home. Particularly in strong winds, it is possible that the door will rattle, allowing air to flow into the home.
- If you opt for a cat flap with a chip, the question arises as to whether you should attach the chip to the cat with a collar or have it inserted by a vet. The collar carries a risk of injury or strangulation.
- With a cat flap, at least your own cat has free access to your home. This means you have less control over whether it brings you a gift in the form of rats or mice. It also carries a certain risk of burglars gaining access to the home via the cat flap if it is installed incorrectly.
