Review on SureFlap Microchip Cat Door White by Lauralee Jensen

This is a wonderful, intuitive and thoughtful product. and wanted to give her access to the patio and backyard. Unfortunately we do not have landlord permission to cut holes in windows and doors; However, we do have a small window in the bathroom, large enough to accommodate a pet. At first we tried leaving the window ajar, but ended up chasing the resident cat around the living room in a fun way. We needed a way for our cat to roam freely without worrying about attracting a stray. This cat hatch was the perfect solution. I simply attached it to the window and closed the top of the window frame so the frame fits snugly against the roof of the cat tunnel and then attached the other section of the tunnel to the outside of the window. The two parts of the cat tunnel are connected with screws, and together they essentially act like a clamp that grips the window frame without having to drill or cut the frame itself. The problem is solved! At least for me. This isn't really a method for everyone: it leaves the window loose, leaving a gap next to the cat's tunnel. I'm in the process of cutting a piece of wood to the exact dimensions of the gap to block the airflow (update: I used four pieces of double wall cardboard and covered them with a white rubberized coating for insulation), and luckily our window isn't not big enough for an adult to squeeze through. Suffice it to say that our situation is unique and not for everyone, but my "installation" took less than two minutes. Please note that it may take some time for your cat to get used to the lid. More on that below. This is the process and there are videos showing the best practices. My only recommendation: never force a cat through a tunnel or shaft. Accept the fact that this is a process that takes time, but if your cat is curious and determined, she will eventually travel through the tunnel with ease. Another feature you'll appreciate: an easy way to prop yourself up. Open the cover during the learning/orientation phase. If your cat has never used such a valve before, she will have an adjustment period. The method recommended by the manufacturer and many online tutorial videos is to leave the lid open until the cat gets used to the tunnel. Then gradually lower the shock in small increments. The cat will get used to opening the lid all the way, and over time you will be able to close it all the way. However, there is no easy and intuitive way to keep the cat flap open during this time. Simply adding a chain and hook - or a simple stand - would be very helpful. (The manufacturer's recommendation of taping the valve is unusually bulky and unwieldy.) Overall, I am more than satisfied with this product. Programming the door was very easy (simply activate the "add cat” feature and encourage the cat to put its head in the tunnel with a tasty treat; the door will instantly recognize and store your cat’s unique chip number). When I originally looked for a programmable cat flap, I assumed I would be looking for a minimum of a few hundred dollars, which would be out of my price range. This is a great product at a great price. Enjoy!