While you do your best to keep your cat indoors, you’ll never know when she will unleash her skills at finding escape routes to go outdoors. Otherwise, your cat may sneak when your guest leaves the door wide open, slip when you’re in the middle of a move, or simply wander off for an “adventure”.
Of course, one of the things you’d never want to happen is losing track of your beloved feline. Fortunately, it’s easier to know your cat’s whereabouts with the use of GPS. Using some devices, you can see where your favorite kitty is and where they’re heading, allowing you to locate her right away or make adjustments regarding her safety.
If you don’t know how to do that yet, continue reading below as we’ll discuss more about GPS and how to use it in tracking your cat.
What is a GPS Cat Tracker? What are its advantages?
GPS (global positioning system) is the global navigation system, which uses a network of satellites to provide location and time data to receiving devices around the planet. Used in cellphones and automobiles for a long time, the technology has also now reached the pet tracking industry, helping you pinpoint the general location of your pets. Thus, allowing you to find or reunite with her in case she gets lost or stolen.
It works by simply adding a tracking device to your cat’s collar. The transmitter then constantly submits signals to the satellite. After the satellite detects the signal, it instantly transmits the data to a computer. You may then access the information using the Internet, or an app on your smartphone.
What’s remarkable is that there are other valuable features that come with these GPS trackers. For instance, you can set boundaries or safe zones for your cat. If she steps outside the limits you set, the system will immediately alert you. Other GPS trackers double as fitness trackers, giving you valuable information about your cat’s rest hours per day, daily calorie burn, and significant insights about her health.
Even without those features, GPS trackers outshine other types of cat trackers available in the market today. Combining the strong visual location data, long detection range, and real-time tracking, they can quickly let you determine your kitty’s whereabouts in no time.
What are the disadvantages of a GPS Cat Tracker?
Though GPS tracker may seem exciting, it has its cons. First, as they depend on satellite,
Transmissions, any blockage to their connection to the sky can render them unreliable. These include heavy clouds, thick bushes or trees, or in some indoor setups.
Second, as GPS trackers are intended for dogs, they tend to be large, heavy, and uncomfortable for cats. That is why you need to find one that will be appropriate to your cat’s physique, weight, and collar, something that won’t affect her normal activities. What’s great is that manufacturers are now introducing more cat-suitable trackers in the latest releases.
If your cat is active or too frisky, there’s also a chance that she might lose the tracking device. Opt for one that fits perfectly to her collar, without the change of falling loosely or getting pulled off.
Lastly, GPS trackers are the most expensive type of trackers you can find in the market. The majority of these devices entail paying a data plan amounting to $10 to stay connected to the service and in order to receive information. That’s on top of the cost of the device itself, ranging between $70 to $200.
What aspects should I consider before buying a GPS Cat Tracker?
Should you decide to get one, here are some vital aspects you should take into consideration among the many options before you make the final choice.
Features
GPS trackers usually come in additional features, such as audio commands, geofencing, built-in night light, water resistance, activity trackers, water resistance, and multi-individual software, all helping to track your cat better as well as inform you about her other activities.
Affordability
As mentioned, GPS trackers can be pricey, but it doesn’t mean you can’t get one if you’re on a stricter budget. What you can check on the features. The more features, the higher the cost. Check only which of the additional technologies do you actually use. Skimp on what you deem is unnecessary and you can save a fraction of the standard cost.
Size and Weight
Depending on your cat’s size, you need to ensure that the tracker you’d be picking will not cause her any strain, discomfort, or pain. Of course, you wouldn’t want your cute little munchkin cat dragging herself just because you chose a tracker that’s too heavy for her. Look for a lightweight tracker that she can easily haul around with no issues.
Battery Life
GPS trackers must be charged frequently. Battery life varies significantly among many brands. High-tech ones may last a few weeks, while low-quality ones may last for only a few days. Usually, the device will send a notification on the app when it’s running low on power. Be wary and charge the device when needed so you can continuously track your cat.
Durability
Given that you’d spend a considerable amount on the product, you may also want to check the durability of the product. Read reviews and check the warranty period with the manufacturers. Choose high-quality materials to ensure the longevity of the tracker and to avoid it from getting easily damaged or broken.
Final Words
Truth to be told, the benefits outweigh all the positives knowing that what you’d be spending is on for your cat’s safety. Adding the confidence that you can get knowing that you know your cat’s location in real-time is also unmatched and provides a big sigh of relief. Who knows these devices can also be of huge help in many aspects of your cat’s daily life.