GPS collar for cats (tracker): which is the smallest

What is the device

The principle of operation of the device is extremely simple: a GPS beacon is attached inside or on a regular collar, which transmits data about the location of the animal via satellites or cell phone towers, which is subsequently displayed on the map. The signal is transmitted to a separate device (receiver) or a special program for a smartphone, communication with which is established via the mobile Internet, so a separate SIM card is required for the collar.

In addition to standard location tracking, manufacturers offer a number of additional features:

• shockproof and/or waterproof housing;
• built-in microphone for listening to the environment where the pet is;
• limiting the territory for the cat, upon leaving which the owner is notified;
• real-time tracking, etc.

How is a cat microchipped?

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//data-ad-slot=”2475549904″ $ads_google = empty($ads_google) ? false : true; ?> if ($ads_google == false) {?> $ads_google = true; ?> } ?> The chip insertion process is quick. This does not cause any pain or inconvenience to the cat. Before the procedure, the animal must be checked for diseases. If the disease is detected, then treatment is prescribed - at this time the cat cannot be microchipped , as in the period after it. The animal's immunity should not be weakened.

An injection is made using a special sterile disposable syringe with a device under the withers between the shoulder blades, implanting a microchip. This will not cause any discomfort to the pet: the device is too small and almost imperceptible.

After the chip is implanted, a sticker is added to the animal’s veterinary passport confirming the microchipping procedure.

No additional measures are required, the animal continues its normal life.

What to look for when choosing

Collars for cats with GPS navigator differ in manufacturer, price, size and functionality. Before purchasing this device for your pet, you should evaluate:

• Battery life. The larger the device's battery capacity, the better.
• Structural strength and water resistance (will contribute to longer service life).
• Fastening quality. With a securely attached beacon and clasp, there is a greater chance that the tracker will not be lost in the near future.
• Size. Most models have an adjustable length, which is easy to adjust for your cat. But before buying, it is better to measure the circumference of his neck with a centimeter tape and add 2 cm to the resulting value to find out the optimal length. When putting it on, there should be a space of one finger between the collar and the neck; with a larger distance, the signal may be distorted.
• The quality of communication with the satellite (good communication will allow you to track the location of your pet even in remote areas) and compatibility with a cellular operator.
• Availability of additional functions (if necessary).

Reviews from veterinarians about microchipping

Veterinarians evaluate the procedure from a medical point of view: since the implanter is disposable and sterile, there is no risk of infection. Also, the device is implanted into the withers, the animal will not be able to comb this place, so there is no risk of infection either. However, veterinarians warn that the microchip will finally take root in 6-7 days, and there is no threat of movement throughout the animal’s body.

An animal can be microchipped at any age, even a kitten, as long as it is healthy.

Rating of the best collars with GPS navigation

We offer a selection of the best GPS collars for cats of different price categories that have earned the trust of pet owners.

Real Find V-30

Cost from 2700 rub. The device is a WiFi-enabled tracker that can be attached to any collar using a plastic loop. It transmits a signal from a satellite with an error of 5-15 m; you can track all movements in a free Russified application. Night illumination will allow you to quickly detect your pet in the dark. IP66 protection prevents the ingress of moisture and dust that could interfere with the operation of the devices. Tracker weight 40 g.

FutureWay PetTracker

Price – 3680 rub. The kit includes: a collar with a beacon in the form of a pendant, a charging cable, a case for additional protection from dirt, and instructions. Communication is established through a micro SIM card (it is advisable to choose an operator with maximum coverage in your region) and a special application for a smartphone. FutureWay PetTracker features:

• track the location of the animal with an accuracy of 5 m;
• set up access boundaries for the cat, when leaving which a corresponding notification is sent to the phone;
• track the trajectory of movement and save it on the map;
• see statistics on the length of your pet’s walks and speed of movement.

Additional advantages include: minimal weight (21 g), water resistance (when submerged to a depth of 1 m). Due to the possibility of purchasing from an official representative in the Russian Federation with an official guarantee and a relatively low price, FutureWay PetTracker can be considered one of the best options on the Russian market.

How to set up a FutureWay PetTracker GPS collar: video

Monkey G Dest D79

Price – 3890 rub. Another contender for the title of the best GPS collar for cats. It works together with a Russian-language application that is compatible with Android and iOS systems. Among the main advantages:

• 420 mAh battery for long-term operation;
• convenient charging via contacts on the case;
• light weight (28 g), suitable even for small pets;
• protection against moisture and dust using IP65 technology;
• high accuracy of cat location data;
• restricting the area of ​​movement and receiving notifications in case of its violation;
• built-in speaker for remote “communication” with your pet.

TK Star LK110

Despite the higher price compared to previous options (RUB 4,480), the popularity of the model is due to its high quality. Its confirmation will be the following characteristics:

• tracking the animal in real time through an application on a smartphone or the manufacturer’s website;
• tracking accuracy up to 5 m (even indoors, without direct satellite access;
• saving movement history for the last 12 months;
• restriction of movement area;
• long work without recharging;
• Sturdy plastic case with dust and moisture protection.

Cost of microchipping a cat

Now it's time to discuss how much it costs to microchip your beloved pussy. The cost of microchipping a cat depends on several factors. The manufacturer brand, the type of microchip, as well as the location of the procedure play a role - the doctor can come to your home along with the necessary equipment. This will significantly save time, but also raises the price of the service.

If a chip is implanted in a clinic, the average price is 2,000 rubles both for the procedure itself and for processing all the data on the animal and registering information.

Where can I buy

A particularly large selection of cat trackers is available in foreign online stores. But it should be taken into account that GPS trackers and beacons are included in the group of special devices, the import of which into the territory of the Russian Federation is prohibited by Customs rules. This offense provides for liability under Article 138.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. If crossing the border, employees delay the parcel, at best, you will need to collect a number of documents and issue an import permit.

To protect yourself from such problems, it is better to buy a collar in brick-and-mortar or online stores in Moscow, St. Petersburg or any other city in the country. Moreover, every year on the Russian market the range of devices with a GPS navigator is only expanding.

You can now see the current price of GPS collars and buy them right here from Yandex Market with fast delivery:

Why is it better to microchip a cat?

The benefits of microchipping cats are just beginning to be appreciated in different countries. The procedure itself was introduced not so long ago, and debates around its significance are still ongoing.

Advantages of introducing a microchip into cats:

• the chances of returning a lost animal are high;
• in good veterinary clinics, a scanner quickly reads information and simplifies the procedure for accepting an animal;
• a chipped cat cannot be replaced, and a stolen animal cannot be used at exhibitions.

It is worth mentioning that scanners for reading information from a chip are not yet available everywhere. But this is good protection for seals of rare and especially valuable breeds that attend international exhibitions.

If you want to take your cat abroad, you should know that not all countries accept animals without a chip.

PawTrack

This is a universal GPS tracker for small predators. Its advantage is that you do not need to purchase an additional SIM card specifically for the collar. But you will have to subscribe for $20 per year.

Has good autonomy for 3 days. Charging is standard via microUSB port. There is an energy saving mode: the sensor stops sending a signal when the cat is in the house or when he is sleeping. But there is a nuance here. If the pet dies, the tracker will perceive its immobility as a dream and stop sending a signal.

Weight – 70 g, some pets can feel it. Google Maps allows you to track your cat's route and even save it for a month. Uses GLONASS and GPS navigation systems.

Although they tried to make the collar as close as possible to the anatomical features of the cat’s structure, it can still get caught on something and pose a risk of suffocation. This is true for any collar. This beacon is also expensive, more than 12,000 rubles ($200).

Changing data on the chip

Naturally, a variety of situations can happen in life - from a forced change of phone number, replacement of a passport, change of address to transfer of an animal to another owner. The most common way to change the data is to go to the veterinary clinic where the chip was activated. All necessary changes will be made to the database there. The previous owner can also do this independently through the personal account of the registration database. Let us repeat that the chip number (fifteen-digit code) cannot be changed.

Microchipping is an excellent opportunity to protect yourself and your pet from theft or loss. With the device, the chances that you will see your cat again increase significantly. In addition, travel to the EU and many European countries is impossible without an electronic encrypted chip under the cat’s skin.

Futureway

Lightweight, 21 grams, the collar works using a SIM card with Internet access. The error in determining the location of the cat is 5 meters. The tracker application creates a virtual map of the cat's movements. The beacon sends a signal when the cat leaves the safe zone determined by the owner.

Not afraid of rain and snow, moisture resistance class – IP67. The manufacturer provides a 1-year warranty. Price in online stores from 3400 to 3600 rubles. Futureway is the leader in this rating of GPS collars.