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A microchip cat door reads the chip already implanted in your cat and unlocks only for registered pets. That keeps neighborhood cats, raccoons and other visitors out, and lets you control who goes in and out. The two brands most people compare are PetSafe and SureFlap (made by Sure Petcare). Both have been refined over many years and both run on batteries, but they differ in chip compatibility, memory, smart features and installation accessories.
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How microchip doors work
A reader in the tunnel detects your cat’s chip as it approaches, unlocks the flap, and relocks after the cat passes. Most models include lock modes: fully open, fully locked, in-only, out-only, and a curfew or timed mode. If a cat is not chipped, you can usually use a collar tag instead.
SureFlap - Sure Petcare Microchip Cat Flap, White, Scans Pet's ID on Entry, Check Your Cat's Size,Flap Opening is 4 3/4” (H) by 5 5/8” (W)
Included for 'PetSafe vs SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Comparison' because the listing specifies Sure Petcare Microchip Cat Flap and White, details this guide uses to compare options.
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SureFlap DualScan Microchip Cat Door - Door Opening is 4 3/4" H x 5 5/8" W
Included for 'PetSafe vs SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Comparison' because the listing specifies Door Opening is 4 3/4" H x 5 5/8" W, details this guide uses to compare options.
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SureFlap Microchip Pet Door Connect Without Hub - Flap Opening is 6 3/4 inches by 7 inches
Included for 'PetSafe vs SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Comparison' because the listing specifies Flap Opening is 6 3/4 inches by 7 inches, details this guide uses to compare options.
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PetSafe Microchip Cat Door, Interior/Exterior, Multi-Pet, 4-Way Lock
Included for 'PetSafe vs SureFlap Microchip Cat Door Comparison' because the listing specifies Interior/Exterior and Multi-Pet, details this guide uses to compare options.
View on AmazonSide-by-side
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| Feature | PetSafe Microchip Cat Flap | SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap |
|---|---|---|
| Pets stored | Up to 40 | Up to 32 |
| Chip compatibility | Common FDX-B 15-digit chips; collar keys for others | Most common chip types (9, 10 and 15-digit); RFID collar tags |
| Batteries | 4 x AA, up to about 12 months (brand estimate) | 4 x AA, up to about 12 months (brand estimate) |
| Lock modes | 4-way manual locking | Locking modes; curfew on some models |
| App control | Not on the basic model | Yes, with SureFlap Connect and Hub |
| Larger model | Limited | SureFlap Microchip Pet Door for large cats and small dogs |
| Approx. price | $80–$140 | $120–$200 (Connect with hub more) |
Specs come from brand and retailer listings; real battery life is often shorter with many cats or heavy traffic.
Chip compatibility: check first
Before buying, ask your vet or check your cat’s registration for the chip type. Most chips implanted in the U.S. and Europe in recent years are 15-digit ISO FDX-B, which both brands read. Older 9- or 10-digit chips, common in some older U.S. pets, are supported by SureFlap but may not be read by some other doors. Collar tags work as a backup, but a tag on a breakaway collar can be lost.
Smart features
SureFlap Connect links to a hub and app, letting you see when each cat comes and goes, lock the door remotely and set curfews from your phone. This is useful for monitoring outdoor cats or checking that an indoor-outdoor cat came home. The trade-off is a higher price and typically shorter battery life. PetSafe’s basic flap is simpler: set it up with buttons and forget it.
Installation
Both fit wooden doors with the included hardware. For glass, metal, uPVC or brick walls, you will likely need an adapter or tunnel extension and possibly a glazier or contractor. Measure your door thickness and the cat’s belly height (usually about 4 to 6 inches from the floor) before cutting.
Maintenance tips
- Clean the reader area regularly; dirt and hair can cause missed reads and drain batteries.
- Use good-quality alkaline batteries and replace them when the low-battery light shows.
- Teach cats with treats and by propping the flap open for the first few days.
Training your cat to use the new door
Many cats hesitate at the sound of the lock or the feel of a flap. Start by taping the flap open for a few days so your cat walks through freely, rewarding with treats or a favorite toy on the other side. Next, lower the flap but leave it unlocked, then enable microchip mode once your cat pushes through confidently. Some models let you add a training setting that holds the flap unlocked longer. Keep the first sessions short and positive. If you have one cat that should stay inside, such as a newly adopted cat or one recovering from surgery, set individual permissions where supported, or use an in-only mode. Check the door regularly for cracked flaps or seals, which can let cold air and pests in.
FAQ
Which microchip cat door is more reliable?
Both are well established. SureFlap reads more chip types and offers app control; PetSafe stores more pets and often costs less.
Will a microchip door work if my cat is not chipped?
Yes, with a compatible RFID collar tag. Microchipping is still recommended for identification; ask your vet.
Bottom line
Choose SureFlap if you want broad chip compatibility, app control or a larger door. Choose PetSafe if you want a simpler, generally cheaper flap that stores up to 40 pets and your cats have standard 15-digit chips. Either way, confirm your cat’s chip type and your door material before buying.
