Pet Trackers for Your Cat
It is normal to be fearful that you may lose your cat while walking them on a leash.
@Lamingtonandjamucats wearing a TabCat radio frequency tracker
They may get spooked by a sound or tried to go hunting for something. It’s something we don’t want to think about but it can happen.
One way to help mitigate this fear is to use a pet tracker.
A pet tracker utilises GPS, radio frequency or Bluetooth technology. Usually, they include a device that you can attach to your cat’s collar or harness. This links up with a remote or an app on your phone, which will help you find your cat should they go walk about.
Do I need a pet tracker if my cat is microchipped?
A microchip is a form of permanent identification on your cat. It is implanted under your cat’s skin and has all your contact details.
A veterinarian can use the chip to contact you if your cat is found without you.
We recommend that all catexplorers microchip their cats.
The equipment to read a microchip is usually only found at veterinary clinics, pounds, & shelters. And you usually need to be very close to the cat to use them. So the cat needs to have been ‘found’ before you can utilise the information in the microchip.
A pet tracker usually can be used to find the cat if they become separated from you. And pet trackers usually come with a remote or an app that will help you find your cat.
A microchip and a pet tracker perform different jobs, so even if your cat is microchipped, a pet tracker will also go a long way to help you find your pet.
What kind of pet trackers can I use?
GPS Trackers
GPS trackers use a mobile/cell phone network to track your cat. You can then use a smartphone or computer to track your cat.
You will need a mobile/cellular service plan, which will include a monthly fee. You may also need to recharge the batteries on your cat’s device approximately once a week.
GPS Trackers may be for you if you need to track your cat over a large distance, in an area where you have great mobile/cellular phone reception.
Bear in mind, that it has the same limitations as GPS on your phone - it may get confused if your cat is hiding under/in a large building or in an area surrounded by buildings.
Radio Frequency Tracker
Radio frequency trackers emit a frequency which is then tracked using a handheld unit, which you use to find your cat.
They don't have a range as long as a GPS tracker but are relatively accurate. Unlike GPS trackers, these don't need a monthly data plan and typically have a longer battery life. Radio Frequency Trackers also tend to be cheaper than GPS trackers.
They may be best if mobile/cellular phone reception isn't the best in locations that you frequent. However, you would need to be relatively close to your cat for it to work, which make them a great option if your cat stays relatively close to you.
Bluetooth Trackers
Bluetooth trackers typically don't have the best range or accuracy.
While you don't need a great mobile phone network to use them, they are probably only best suited for cats who stay very close to you. For example a kitty who likes to be hidden at home or in a small back yard.
Where should I put the tracker on my cat?
The most common way to place a tracker on your cat is to place it on their collar.
However, many cats also wear it on their harness. In these situations, it is important to remember that if your cat manages to sneak out of their harness, they will also lose the tracker.
A lot of pet trackers on the market are large and many are designed for bigger dogs. As such, it may be easier to sew the tracker into your cat’s harness or collar – depending on what your sewing skills are like!
Pet trackers available on the market
Minifinder Atto
GPS tracker, 65 x 35mm (2.5 x 1.4”), 38g (1.3 oz)
The Minifinder Atto comes with a cloth collar, which can be removed.
It can be sewn onto your cat’s harness and comes with an app that allows you to track your cat. The battery typically lasts for 20 days.
Tractive GPS Tracker
GPS tracker, 51 x 41 mm (2 x 1.6”) , 35g (1.2 oz)
The Tractive GPS Tracker with an app that gives you a notification if your cat leaves a pre-defined safe area.
It also comes as a square device that can be attached to your cat’s collar and is recommended for pets above 4.5 kg (9 pounds).
It has a 2-5 day battery life depending on cellular coverage and usage.
TabCat Cat Tracker
Radio Frequency, 32 mm (1.3”) in Diameter, 24g (0.8oz)
The TabCat tracker appears to be the most popular tracker used by members of the Catexplorer community.
Each set comes with 2 trackers for your cats and a remote. It is great if you are a multi cat household as you can sync 4 cats to one remote.
It has a range of 122 m and guides you to 2.5 m of your cat. However, it is limited if there are buildings and large plants in the way.
The tracker also beeps when you are looking for your cat, and a few cats have been trained to come when their collar starts beeping.
Marco Polo Tracker
Radio Frequency, 127 x 25.4 mm (5 x 1”), 22.7 g (0.8 oz)
The Marco Polo comes with a tracking tag for your cat and a locator, which can track up to 3 pets.
It has a range of 3.2 km.
The batteries last up to 45 days.
It also allows you to set up a safe zone (for example 10 m), which moves with you and gives you a warning if your cat wanders from here.
Girafus Tracker
Radio Frequency, 38 x 25 mm (1.5 x 1”) , 4.2 g (0.2 oz)
The Girafus Tracker comes with 4 tags and a directional remote, allowing you to track up to 4 pets.
It has a range up to 500 meters (1600 feet).
The tag has a battery life of up to 30 days.
The tags also beep when requested by the directional remote, allowing you to find your cat.
Chipolo One
Bluetooth, 37.9 x 6.4mm,
The Chipolo app allows you to “ring” the tracker. It also shows you the last known location of the tracker.
Tile
Bluetooth, 42 x 42 mm (1.6 x 1.6”)
Tile has a range of products that can be used as a tracker for your pet – from the Tile sticker to the Tile Pro.
The Tile Pro is perhaps the most suited for use with cats. It has a 122m (400ft) range and can be tracked using the Tile app.
What Pet Tracker Should I use For My Cat?
The kind of tracker you need really depends on the locations you may explore with your cat, the amount you're willing to spend and its size.
If you need a large range, are willing to spend a bit more and typically explore areas with great phone reception - a GPS tracker may be the one for you.
If you are ok with staying relatively close to your cat and using a hand held remote to find your cat, a radio frequency tracker may be the one for you.
And if your cat loves hiding at home, a Bluetooth tracker may be the one for you.
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