AI Cat Flaps & Prey Detection
The newest generation of cat flap doesn't just check who is coming in — it checks what they're carrying. Here's how AI prey detection works, whether it's worth the money, and what it costs to have one fitted properly.
How Prey Detection Works
Camera trigger. As your cat approaches, a camera above the flap captures a short burst of images.
On-device recognition. The model compares the silhouette of the cat's head and mouth against known prey-carrying poses. No cloud round-trip is needed for the decision.
Lock-out and alert. If prey is detected, the flap holds locked for a cool-off period and your phone gets the photo. Most cats drop the catch and are let in on the next attempt.
- OnlyCat and standalone prey-detection units fitted
- uPVC, composite, glass, window and conservatory panels
- Wi-Fi signal and power routing checked at measure-up
- Extra clearance allowed for the camera housing
- Existing toughened glass replaced with a new pre-cut panel
- 3-year workmanship guarantee on the installation
AI vs Microchip vs Manual Cat Flaps
| Flap type | Checks identity | Detects prey | Phone alerts | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manual flap | No | No | No | Indoor-outdoor cats with no local cat problem |
| Microchip flap | Yes | No | Some models | Keeping neighbouring cats out |
| AI / prey-detection flap | Yes | Yes | Yes, with photos | Cats that bring mice and birds indoors |
Weighing up the options? Compare OnlyCat prey detection in detail or read our microchip vs manual cat flap comparison.
AI Cat Flap FAQs
Our Installation Services
Smart Cat Flap Guides
Smart Cat Flaps: The Complete UK Buyer's Guide (2026)
A smart cat flap is a microchip flap with a hub or Wi-Fi connection, so you can lock, unlock and set curfews from your phone and see when your cat came and went. Expect £120–£250 for the flap, plus fitting. For most UK homes the SureFlap Connect is the safe all-rounder; OnlyCat is the choice if prey-carrying is the problem you're solving.
Buyer's GuidesAI Cat Flaps UK 2026: OnlyCat vs SureFlap vs the Rest
AI cat flaps are the first genuine innovation in pet-door technology since the microchip flap arrived in 2007. The UK market has one true AI flap on sale in 2026 — OnlyCat — plus a growing set of "smart" microchip flaps that are often marketed as AI but aren't. Here's what actually qualifies, how it works, and whether it's worth the £600 price tag.
Buyer's GuidesCat Flap Battery Life Compared — SureFlap, PetSafe & OnlyCat (Real Data 2026)
**SureFlap Microchip:** 6–12 months on 4× AA. **PetSafe Microchip:** 8–14 months on 4× AA. **SureFlap Connect (Hub):** 4–8 months on 4× C. **OnlyCat:** 4–8 weeks on 6× C — it's a camera flap so it's the shortest. Cold weather, multi-cat homes and heavy use all shorten these figures by 20–40%.
Buyer's GuidesBest Smart & Electronic Dog Doors USA 2026: Microchip, Collar-Key & App-Controlled
Smart dog doors only open for your pet. Microchip doors like the SureFlap Pet Door are best for small dogs and cats. For medium and large dogs, a collar-key electronic door (such as PetSafe's Electronic SmartDoor) or a powered door with a sliding panel is the better choice.
Thinking About an AI Cat Flap?
Send a photo of your door and we'll tell you whether it suits a camera flap — and what it would cost.