You have a cat that insists on going outside, but you worry about stray animals wandering in. Or maybe you have multiple cats and need to control who comes and goes. That is where microchip cat flaps shine. SureFlap and Sure Petcare are two names you will encounter, but they are not entirely separate. Sure Petcare is the brand that owns SureFlap, and the product lines overlap. In this guide, we break down the differences between the SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap, the Sure Petcare Hub, and the accessories that make the system work. Whether you want a simple standalone flap or a connected setup with app control, we help you choose. If you are new to pet tech, you might also find our Pet Tech Guides useful for understanding how these devices fit into a smart home.
Buying Guide
Microchip Compatibility and Selective Entry
The core feature of any SureFlap product is selective entry using your cat’s microchip. The SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap reads the implanted ID chip and only allows registered cats to push through. It can learn up to 32 identities, so even if you have a multi-cat household, you can keep strays out. If your cat does not have a microchip, the SureFlap RFID Collar Tags work as an alternative. Each tag carries a unique code and weighs just two grams, so your cat will barely notice it. For a deeper look at how selective entry flaps compare, check our Comparisons page.
Connectivity and Smart Features
The biggest distinction between SureFlap and Sure Petcare is the Hub. The Sure Petcare Hub connects your flap to your home network and allows you to control it via the Sure Petcare app (iOS, Android, and web). You can lock the flap, set curfews, and view activity logs. However, the Hub works only with Connect versions of SureFlap products, not the standard microchip flap. If you want app control, you need both a Connect flap and the Hub. For those who just want a reliable flap without smartphone integration, the standalone SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap is perfectly sufficient.
Installation Options
Installation is a key consideration. The SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap can be fitted into doors, walls, or windows. But if you have a glass door or window, you will need the Sure Petcare Mounting Adapter. This adapter covers holes with a diameter of 294mm to 320mm and comes in a pack of two (one for inside, one for outside). It is specifically designed for the SureFlap Microchip Pet Flap and the Connect version. Make sure you measure your glass thickness before ordering, as the adapter works only with compatible flaps.
Accessories and Expandability
Beyond the flap itself, you may need collar tags for non-microchipped cats or a Hub for smart features. The SureFlap RFID Collar Tags come in packs of two and are compatible with all SureFlap flaps and feeders (check serial numbers for older models). The Hub can control up to ten Connect products, so if you plan to add a SureFeed Connect feeder later, you can manage everything from one app. Think about your long-term setup before buying.
Final Thoughts
If you want a straightforward, reliable microchip cat flap that works without any extra gadgets, the SureFlap – Sure Petcare Microchip Cat Flap, White is an excellent choice. It offers selective entry, long battery life, and a simple one button programming. On the other hand, if you crave remote control and activity tracking, pair a Connect flap with the Sure Petcare Hub. The Hub unlocks app features and integrates with other Sure Petcare devices. Both options keep your home safe from intruders while giving your cat the freedom it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the Sure Petcare Hub to use a SureFlap cat flap? No. The standard SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap works independently without the Hub. It reads microchips and collar tags using batteries. The Hub is only required for Connect versions that offer app control.
Can I use SureFlap products without a microchip? Yes. If your cat does not have an implanted microchip, you can purchase the SureFlap RFID Collar Tags. Each tag has a unique code that the flap recognizes. The tags are lightweight and compatible with all SureFlap flaps and feeders (check serial number for older models).
How do I install a SureFlap cat flap in a glass door? You will need the Sure Petcare Mounting Adapter. It fits glass panes and covers holes from 294mm to 320mm in diameter. The adapter comes as a pack of two, one for indoor and one for outdoor mounting. Make sure your flap is compatible (SureFlap Microchip Pet Flap or Connect version).
Can the Sure Petcare Hub work with multiple cat flaps? Yes. The Hub can control up to ten Connect products, including multiple flaps and feeders. You can manage all of them from the Sure Petcare app. This makes it a great choice for multi-cat households or those expanding their smart pet setup in 2026.
For more comparisons of pet tech products, visit our Comparisons page.
