Best Pet Doors With Chip Access for Cats and Dogs
The best pet door with chip access reads an implanted microchip or compatible ID tag and admits only recognized pets. The SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap is best for cats needing selective entry, while its larger pet-door model suits bigger pets and adds a curfew timer. The Cat Mate offers multiple lock settings; the two Power Pet models use collar transmitters rather than implanted microchips, so they are alternatives—not chip-reading doors.
| Product | Best For | Access Method |
|---|---|---|
| SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap | Cats | Implanted microchip or separate tag |
| Cat Mate Microchip Cat Flap | Cats and small dogs | Compatible microchip or separate ID disc |
| SureFlap Microchip Pet Door | Larger pets | Implanted microchip or separate tag |
| Power Pet Fully Automatic Pet Door | Owners considering collar-operated access | Pet collar transmitter |
| Power Pet PX-2DM | Large dogs | MS-5 ultrasonic collar |
SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap
This selective-entry cat flap scans a pet’s microchip when the animal enters. It can store up to 32 identities and works with listed 9-, 10-, and 15-digit microchip formats. A one-button programming process is intended to make setup straightforward. The flap can be installed in a door, window, or wall, with installation accessories available separately.
Best for: Cat owners who want to keep unfamiliar animals from entering and have checked that their cat’s chip format is compatible. The opening measures 4 3/4 inches high by 5 5/8 inches wide, so measure the cat and installation location before choosing. Limitation: The listed control is selective on entry only; a separate collar tag is needed for cats without a compatible microchip.
Cat Mate Microchip Activated Cat Flap
The Cat Mate flap supports access for up to 30 cats using compatible microchips or separately sold Cat Mate ID discs. It is designed for small to medium-sized cats and small dogs. Four settings provide in-and-out access, entry only, exit only, or a fully locked position. The product information also lists a brush seal, magnetic closure, weather resistance, and quiet action.
Best for: Households that want several access modes and a door suited to cats or small dogs. It is compatible with 15-digit ISO and AVID microchips. Limitation: It is not compatible with 10-digit microchips or chips containing letters, so verify the pet’s chip before buying.
SureFlap Microchip Pet Door
This larger SureFlap model uses RFID to recognize a pet’s implanted microchip on entry and can store up to 32 identities. It supports the listed 9-, 10-, and 15-digit chip formats. Owners can set a curfew time for locking and unlocking. The opening measures 6 11/16 inches high by 7 inches wide, and the door is described for installation in doors, windows, or walls.
Best for: Owners who need a larger opening than the SureFlap cat flap and want scheduled locking. Limitation: The door restricts entry only; any animal can exit. Check the opening dimensions against your pet before purchasing, and note that a separate programmable collar tag is needed for pets without compatible chips.
Power Pet Fully Automatic Door
This automatic door is collar-operated, not activated by an implanted microchip. Its listed features include directional sensing, four-way access, a deadbolt lock, and a design described as airtight with quick, quiet operation.
Best for: Buyers who prefer a collar-based automatic door and do not require chip recognition. Limitation: Because the product uses a pet collar rather than reading an implanted chip, it does not meet the strict definition of a microchip pet door. Confirm what transmitter is included before choosing.
Power Pet PX-2DM Large Dog Door
The PX-2DM is a door-mounted automatic pet door with a listed opening of 12 1/4 by 16 inches, intended for large dogs weighing 30–100 pounds. It offers in-only, out-only, in-and-out, and locked modes. Access depends on a genuine High Tech Pet MS-5 ultrasonic collar transmitter.
Best for: Large-dog owners seeking adjustable access modes and a collar-operated door. Limitation: This is not a microchip-reading model, and its performance warranty applies only when operated with authentic MS-5 transmitters. The pet must wear the required collar transmitter.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Pet Door With Chip Access
Does the door read an implanted microchip?
Check the access method in the product details. The SureFlap and Cat Mate models listed here read compatible implanted chips, with the option of a separate tag for some pets. The Power Pet models use collar transmitters instead. A collar-based door may still provide selective access, but it is not a chip-activated door.
Which microchip formats are supported?
Compatibility varies by model. The SureFlap products list support for 9-, 10-, and 15-digit formats, while the Cat Mate supports 15-digit ISO and AVID chips but excludes 10-digit chips and chips containing letters. Ask your veterinarian or shelter for your pet’s chip number and format before ordering.
How large should the opening be?
Compare the flap opening—not just the product name—with your pet’s height and width. The SureFlap cat flap has a smaller opening than the larger SureFlap pet door. The PX-2DM lists an opening of 12 1/4 by 16 inches. Measure your pet and allow for comfortable passage.
What access controls do you need?
Choose the Cat Mate if you want four manual settings, including exit-only and fully locked modes. The larger SureFlap adds a programmable curfew but only restricts entry. Check whether the control options match how you manage indoor and outdoor access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a microchip pet door keep every stray animal out?
These doors are designed to admit recognized pets on entry, which can help prevent unrecognized animals from entering. They do not necessarily prevent other animals from leaving if the door allows exit.
Do pets need a collar for a microchip door?
Pets with a compatible implanted chip generally do not need a collar for the listed SureFlap and Cat Mate models. A separate tag may be used when a pet lacks a compatible chip, subject to the model’s requirements.
Is the Cat Mate compatible with a 10-digit chip?
No. The listed Cat Mate product is not compatible with 10-digit microchips or chips containing letters. Verify the chip format before buying.
Are the Power Pet doors microchip activated?
No. The listed Power Pet models use collar-based transmitters. The PX-2DM specifically requires a genuine MS-5 ultrasonic collar transmitter.