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Cat GPS Collars: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

Fact checked by Chris Bakke
Last Updated October 29, 2024
3
Pawfit 3 GPS Pet Tracker GPS Dog Tracker 4G Live Satellite Tracking, Multiple Smart Alerts, Fully Waterproof Activity Monitor for Dogs & Cats, Unlimited Range, Remote Voice Recall,Fits All Collars

Pawfit

Pawfit 3 GPS Pet Tracker GPS Dog Tracker 4G Live Satellite Tracking, Multiple Smart Alerts, Fully Waterproof Activity Monitor for Dogs & Cats, Unlimited Range, Remote Voice Recall,Fits All Collars

Main highlights

  • [Real-time 4G GPS Tracking] Experience the best in pet tracking with Pawfit 3's GPS dog tracker. Utilizing robust 4G technology, it offers an ideal mix of long battery life and dependable network coverage, ensuring your pet's safety.
  • [All-Inclusive Subscription Plans] Starting at $4.75/month, Pawfit includes all features without extra or roaming fees. Choose from 1 to 24-month options with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • [Remote Voice Recall] Speak to your dog even when they're out of ear shot – ideal for training and safety.
  • [Advanced Safety Features] Keep your pet secure with up to 10 virtual fences, boundary-cross alerts, and night-visible LED lights. Features also include a removal alarm, extreme temperature warnings, and a remote audio ID tag for added safety.
  • [Activity Monitoring] Set daily goals and monitor your pet's fitness via the Pawfit app. Track steps, calories burned, distance, and activity levels. Earn fun fitness badges and keep your pet healthy and active.
  • [Multiple Tracker Management] Manage up to 20 trackers under one Pawfit account, making it easy to monitor multiple dogs. Family pet sharing allows you to involve others, like dog walkers, in pet care.
  • [Reliable Long Battery Life] Enjoy up to 8 days of battery life with continuous use and a quick 2.5-hour recharge, allowing you more quality time with your pet.
  • [Waterproof and Durable] Designed for pets over 7 lbs., the IP68 waterproof Pawfit 3 withstands all adventures, ensuring durability and resilience.

9.4

Excellent

More Deals (1)
4
Cat Tailer Cat Tracker - Small and Lightweight Waterproof Bluetooth Pet Collar Attachment, 328 foot Range, Replaceable 6 Month Battery Life, Android/Apple iOS Compatible

Ambystoma Labs Inc.

Cat Tailer Cat Tracker - Small and Lightweight Waterproof Bluetooth Pet Collar Attachment, 328 foot Range, Replaceable 6 Month Battery Life, Android/Apple iOS Compatible

Main highlights

  • Cat Tailer tracker tag for cat collars is the best cat tracker no subscription device in the cat accessories category that attaches just like any ordinary name tag on a pets collar; no more hide and seek!
  • SMALL AND LIGHTWEIGHT PET TRACKER TAG - Cat Tailer is one of the smallest animal trackers (not limited to being an animal tracker for cats only, can be used as a dog tracker, however, it does have a cat decal) weighing at 7 grams and only 27 mm round being unobtrusive and sturdy enough to keep up with your pet’s adventures.
  • BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY TECHNOLOGY - With a 328 feet/100 meters range, the Cat Tailer is a kitten collar tracking device that helps you find your pet location with Bluetooth frequency (does not use GPS) around your house, yard, or neighborhood. CAT TAILER IS NOT A GPS CAT COLLAR TRACKER.
  • SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY & ONE YEAR WARRANTY WITH 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - The iPhone and Android Tracker tags your cats location determining approximately how far you are from your pet and can be configured to notify you when they come back in range (download in the App Store or Google Play Store)
  • MADE IN THE USA BY AMBYSTOMA LABS - Out of Vero Beach, Florida, here at Cat Tailer, we have a passion for keeping humans and their furry friends together. If you are having any trouble getting your device set up or working properly, please contact Cat Tailer Support directly and we will assist you one-on-one to make sure you are getting the most out of your cat collar tag before making a return.

9.2

Excellent

More Deals (1)
10
Tabcat V2 Cat & Kitten Tracker - More Accurate Than GPS - No Monthly Subscription - Includes 2 Homing Tags & 2 Splashproof Protective Cases - for Indoor & Outdoor Cats - Small & Lightweight Tags

Loc8tor

Tabcat V2 Cat & Kitten Tracker - More Accurate Than GPS - No Monthly Subscription - Includes 2 Homing Tags & 2 Splashproof Protective Cases - for Indoor & Outdoor Cats - Small & Lightweight Tags

Main highlights

  • TRACK YOUR CAT EASILY: TabCat helps you quickly and accurately locate your cat or kitten, whether they are hiding indoors or exploring outdoors. The small and lightweight tag (only 0.2 ounces!) ensures your pet's comfort while providing precise tracking. The handset can track up to 4 cats, meaning you can track your whole clowder with one device
  • EASY TO USE: The directional handset guides you towards your cat at just a click of a button. As you get closer, lights on the handset change from red to amber to green, anyone can use it! TabCat V2 is highly accurate, pinpointing within 2.5cm /1 inch and can pinpoint your cat in areas GPS tracker's can't
  • NO SUBSCRIPTION NEEDED: No monthly subscription fee, no satellite signal, no mobile phone app, no data – All you need is our TabCat Pack to keep your cat safe and found. A single one off payment and you can find your cat for years. This removes the long term fees associated with GPS trackers, especially with multi-cat households
  • FOR CATS AND KITTENS: At only 0.2 ounces, our lightweight homing tag is nearly unnoticeable for cats and kittens. Whether you have a new cat or are moving house, the TabCat V2 tracker can ease your worries about your adventurous friends and instantly scan to see if your cat is back home. The beep sound from the homing tag can also be used to train you cat to return home when they hear it
  • LONG-LASTING: With long battery life (3 to 12 months depending on use) and minimal radio frequency emission, TabCat is a safer and longer-lasting option compared to GPS trackers that require frequent recharging and much more powerful transmissions
  • TRUSTED QUALITY: Created by Loc8tor, TabCat combines advanced technology with user-friendly design. With over a decade of experience and thousands of satisfied customers in 30+ countries, Loc8tor ensures the highest quality and reliability for keeping your cat safe!

8.2

Good

More Deals (1)

On This Page

Do you worry when your cat wanders off? Cat GPS collars can help you know where they go. These smart devices make it easy to find your cat when they're out exploring. 🔍

Thanks to new tech, pet tracking is better than ever. Now, you can see where your cat is at any time. It works for both indoor cats who slip out and outdoor cats who love to roam.

GPS tracking collars do more than show where your cat is. They can tell you how active your cat is and send alerts to your phone when it goes too far.

Want to learn more about cat GPS collars 🐱? We'll show you how to pick the right one for your pet. You'll learn about the types, features, and top brands that can help keep your cat safe. 🏡

How do GPS Collars work for tracking cats?

Let's break down how these smart devices find your cat. Understanding this helps you use them better.

The basic steps of GPS tracking:

1. Getting location:

  • Collar talks to satellites above
  • At least three satellites help find the spot
  • This happens every few seconds

2. Sending data:

  • Collar sends location to cell towers
  • Towers pass it to tracking servers
  • Servers send it to your phone

cat-gps-collars-3

3. Showing results:

  • Your app shows a map
  • You see your cat's spot
  • Updates keep coming as the cat moves

Inside buildings, the system works a bit differently:

  • Walls can weaken GPS signals
  • Cell networks help fill in gaps
  • Some collars use Wi-Fi to help
  • Others switch to radio signals

Types of Cat GPS Collars

There are three main types of cat-tracking collars. Each one works in a different way to help you find your pet. Let's look at what makes each type special.

GPS-Only Collars

GPS-only collars use satellites to find your cat. They work best in open areas where there's a clear view of the sky.

These collars don't need cell service to work. This makes them great for country areas where phone signals are weak.

Here's when GPS-only collars work best:

  • For farm cats who roam far
  • In rural areas with poor cell service
  • When you want to avoid monthly fees
  • For tracking in parks and open spaces

cat-gps-collars

But keep in mind:

  • They may not work well in thick woods
  • Tall buildings can block signals
  • You need to be closer to read the signal

GPS + Cellular Collars

GPS + Cellular collars use both satellites and cell networks. They send updates right to your phone and work well in cities and towns.

These collars can tell you where your cat is at any time. Most come with apps that are easy to use on your phone.

Perfect times to use GPS + Cellular collars:

  • For city cats who like to wander
  • When you want instant updates
  • If you need to track from far away
  • For areas with good cell service

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Extra features often include:

  • Live tracking on your phone
  • Text alerts when cats leave home
  • Movement history maps
  • Battery level warnings

Radio Frequency (RF) Tracking Collars

RF tracking collars use radio waves to find your cat. They work well indoors and in areas where GPS signals can't reach.

While they don't show exact spots like GPS does, they're great for finding cats inside your home or in nearby areas.

cat-gps-collars-2

Best uses for RF collars:

  • Finding indoor cats who hide
  • Basement or garage searches
  • Areas with poor GPS signals
  • Backup to GPS tracking

Not all GPS collars work the same in every area. Your location and cat's roaming habits should decide which type you choose

Features to consider when choosing a GPS Collar

There are some important things to consider when picking a GPS collar for your cat. Here's what matters most.

Battery life and charging

A good GPS collar needs a strong battery life to keep track of your cat. Most collars last between two and seven days on a single charge. The exact time depends on how often the collar sends updates.

More frequent updates mean the battery drains faster. Charging should be quick and easy. The best collars take about two hours to charge fully.

cat-gps-collars-4

Many come with warning alerts when the battery gets low. This helps you avoid losing track of your cat because of a dead battery.

Water protection and durability

Even though most cats hate water, their GPS collars need to handle wet conditions. Look for fully waterproof collars, not just water-resistant ones. A good collar should work fine in rain, snow, or when your cat walks through wet grass.

The collar should also be tough enough for daily cat life. This means it can handle scratching, bumping into things, and rough play. Many good collars use strong plastic cases with sealed edges to keep water and dirt out.

Comfort and proper fit

Your cat needs to feel comfortable wearing their GPS collar all day. The device should weigh less than 5% of your cat's body weight.

For most cats, this means the collar should be under two ounces. Watch your cat when they first wear it - if they keep pawing at it or seem unhappy, you might need a lighter model.

Getting the right fit matters just as much as weight. You should be able to slip two fingers under the collar easily. Check the fit every few weeks, especially in young cats who might still be growing.

Network coverage

Good network coverage makes a big difference in how well your GPS collar works. Before you buy a collar, test the cell signal in your yard.

Walk around to find any spots where the signal might be weak. This helps you know where tracking might not work as well.

cat-gps-collars-5

Don't just check your yard - think about your whole area. Look at cell coverage maps for your town. Talk to other cat owners who use GPS trackers. They often know the best brands for your location.

It's also smart to have a backup plan for areas with poor signals.

A GPS collar is only as good as its weakest feature. Better battery life and faster updates are worth paying more for.

Top-rated GPS Collars for Cats

Let's look at the best GPS collars you can buy for your cat. We've picked three top choices that work well for most cat owners.

1. Weenect Cat XS

Weenect Cat XS  is a small but mighty GPS tracker that helps you keep an eye on your cat. This clever device works anywhere in the world, making it great for cats who love to explore.

The tracker sends updates every second, so you always know where your cat is. It works on multiple networks, including 5G and 4G, to give you the best coverage.

cat-gps-collars-6

One cool feature is the training bell. Ring it at meal times, and your cat will learn to come home when they hear it. At night, the built-in flashlight helps you spot your cat in the dark.

The Weenect Cat XS collar might be the best cat GPS collar if you want to know all about your cat's adventures. It can show you where your cat goes and what it does all day long.

Checkmark IconPros
Checkmark IconUpdates location every second
Checkmark IconWorks worldwide
Checkmark IconHas a training bell feature
Checkmark IconIncludes a flashlight
Checkmark IconShows where your cat spends time
Checkmark IconFits on any collar
Cons
Needs a monthly subscription
Battery needs frequent charging

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPNSSqo-b34

2. Tractive GPS Tracker

Tractive makes a GPS collar perfect for cats weighing more than 6.5 pounds. This tracker shows you where your cat is in real time, with updates every few seconds.

You can set up safe zones for your cat. If they leave these areas, you'll get an alert right away. The app also lets you see where your cat has been all day.

What makes this tracker special is its health tracking. It watches how much your cat moves and sleeps, helping you keep them healthy.

cat-gps-collars-7

The battery lasts up to 7 days, which means less charging for you. It's also tough enough to handle water and rough play.

Checkmark IconPros
Checkmark IconLong battery life
Checkmark IconTracks health and sleep
Checkmark IconWorks nationwide
Checkmark IconWaterproof design
Checkmark IconShows history of locations
Checkmark IconEasy to set up safe zones
Cons
Only for cats over 6.5 pounds
Monthly subscription needed

3. Pawfit 3 GPS Pet Tracker

Pawfit 3 brings strong tracking power to keep tabs on your cat. It uses 4G networks to work well in most places.

This tracker has some neat safety features. You can set up to 10 safe zones and receive alerts if your cat leaves them. It also has lights for nighttime and warns you about extreme temperatures.

The battery can last up to 8 days, one of the longest times available. It charges quickly too - just 2.5 hours for a full charge.

cat-gps-collars-8

You can share the tracking app with family or pet sitters, making it easy for everyone to help keep your cat safe.

Checkmark IconPros
Checkmark IconVery long battery life
Checkmark IconMany safety features
Checkmark IconQuick charging
Checkmark IconCan share with family
Checkmark IconWorks in rain and water
Checkmark IconHas bright LED lights
Cons
Only for cats over 7 pounds
Need to pay monthly fee

How to put on and use a GPS Collar?

Getting your cat to wear a GPS collar takes patience and the right approach. Let's walk through everything you need to know about starting your tracking journey.

Preparing your cat

Start by letting your cat check out their new collar. Put it near their food bowl or favorite resting spot. This helps them see it as something normal and not scary. Some cats might need a few days to get used to seeing the collar before wearing it.

Try putting the collar on when your cat feels calm and happy. Right after a meal often works well. Keep some treats handy to make it a good experience. If your cat seems stressed, take a break and try again later.

Getting the right fit

A good fit makes all the difference in how well your cat accepts their GPS collar. Place the collar high on your cat's neck, just behind their ears. This spot keeps the collar from slipping off and helps the GPS work better.

cat-gps-collars-9

Check the fit using the two-finger rule. Slip two fingers under the collar - if they fit snugly, that's perfect. If you can't fit two fingers, the collar is too tight. If your fingers fit loosely, tighten the collar a bit more.

Starting tracking sessions

Begin with short tracking periods inside your home. Let your cat wear the collar for an hour while you watch how the tracking works. Check that updates come through to your phone correctly.

Look for any spots in your house where the signal might be weaker.

Once your cat seems comfortable, let it wear the collar for longer periods. For the first week, keep checking the fit each day.

Some cats might try to remove their collar, so watch for signs of this and adjust your approach if needed.

Teaching your cat to come back

Many GPS tracking collars have a sound feature you can use to train your cat. Start using this sound at meal times. Your cat will learn that the sound means food and good things.

Later, you can use this sound to call them home when they wander too far.

cat-gps-collars-10

Practice makes perfect with collar training. Reward your cat when it comes to you while wearing the collar. This builds good habits and helps the cat accept the collar as part of its daily life.

Dealing with collar issues

Sometimes cats take longer to accept their GPS collar. Watch for signs that the collar bothers them, like excessive scratching or trying to pull it off. If this happens, try adjusting the fit or switching to a lighter model.

Keep the collar clean and charged. A dirty collar might irritate your cat's skin, and a dead battery means no tracking. Make collar checks part of your daily routine, just like feeding and playing with your cat.

Conclusion

The best collar for your cat depends on where you live and how far your cat roams. While cost matters, think about battery life and signal strength in your area.

A good GPS collar might cost more up front, but it's worth it for reliable tracking.

Remember that GPS collars work best alongside other safety measures like ID tags and microchips. Train your cat to come when called, and keep their vet records current.

Give your cat time to adjust to its new collar. Start with short periods and slowly increase wear time. Watch how your cat reacts and make adjustments if needed.

Whether you choose a basic tracker or a feature-rich collar, you're making a smart choice for your cat's safety.

FAQs

How much do GPS collars cost?

Most GPS collars cost between $50 and $200 to buy. You'll also need to pay a monthly fee of $5 to $15 for the tracking service.

How long do GPS collar batteries last?

Batteries usually last 2-8 days, depending on how often they update. More frequent updates use more battery power.

Do GPS collars work indoors?

They work best outdoors, but many can still track your cat inside, especially if they're near windows or doors.

Are GPS collars safe for cats?

Yes, they're safe when fitted properly. Make sure to get one that's the right size for your cat.

Do I need a smartphone to use a GPS collar?

Yes, most GPS collars need a smartphone to show you where your cat is.

Can I track multiple cats with one app?

Most apps let you track several cats. Each cat needs their own collar, but you can see them all in one app.