10 Best GPS Trackers for Cats: Never Lose Your Cat Again!
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If you’re anything like me, the thought of your cat wandering off into the deep unknown can send you into a panic.
I’ve been there, and it’s not a feeling I’d wish on anyone.
A few years ago, our savvy street cat, Spencer (that’s him at the top of the page), whom we’d rescued in Dubai, went missing shortly after we moved to a rural area.
For 3½ agonizing months, we searched tirelessly.
By sheer luck, we happened upon him an impressive 30 miles from home – skinny, but none the worse for wear and overjoyed to be reunited.
Our relief was overwhelming, but so was my resolve to never experience that stress again.
Even if your cat is strictly indoors-only, accidents happen.
An open window, a loose cat carrier door on the way to the vet – and suddenly, your cat could be anywhere.
Top 10 Best GPS Trackers for Cats
The experience with Spencer sparked my mission to find the perfect GPS cat tracker – not just for peace of mind, but as a lifeline if the unthinkable were to happen again.
Spoiler alert: it hasn’t, but we’re always prepared.
Based on extensive research and testing, I’ve compiled this list of the Top 10 Best GPS Cat Trackers that could be your furry friend’s ticket home.
#1. Tractive GPS Tracker for Cats (9 lbs+)
- Live Tracking & Location History: Monitor your cat's movements in real-time and review their location history on your phone.
- Virtual Fence: Set safe zones and receive alerts when your cat leaves or returns to these areas.
- All-Day Activity Monitoring: Track your cat's activity levels, rest, and calories burned to help maintain their fitness.
- Design: Specifically made for cats, suitable for those 9 lbs or larger.
- 100% Waterproof: Durable and reliable in all weather conditions and environments.
The Tractive GPS Tracker is ideal if your cat is on the larger size.
Not only does it allow you to track your pet’s location in real-time, but it also monitors their activity levels and health.
Key Benefits: Includes a robust design fit for the most rambunctious of cats and a waterproof feature for those who love to explore near water.
Keep in Mind: While it’s perfect for bigger cats, it could be a bit bulky for cats under 9 lbs (see #2).
#2. Tractive GPS Tracker for Cats (6.5 lbs+)
- Live Tracking & Location History: Follow your cat’s movements in real-time and view their location history on your phone.
- Virtual Fence: Set safe zones and get notified instantly when your cat leaves or re-enters these areas.
- All-Day Activity Monitoring: Monitor your cat’s activity, rest, and calories burned to help them stay fit.
- Design: Specifically created for cats weighing 6.5 lbs or more.
- 100% Waterproof: Built to withstand rain, shrubs, and various outdoor conditions.
This version of the Tractive GPS Tracker caters to slightly smaller cats, maintaining all the great features of its bigger counterpart, such as health monitoring and waterproofing, but tailored for those weighing 6.5 lbs and above.
Key Benefits: Ideal for medium-sized cats.
Keep in Mind: Still might be a tad large for very small or young cats.
#3. Tkmars GPS Tracker for Big Cats
- Real-Time Location Monitoring: Track your cat's movements in real-time.
- GeoFence Alerts: Receive notifications if your cat leaves a designated safe area.
- Health Tracking: Monitor your cat’s activity levels by tracking their steps per hour.
- Sound and Light Alarm: Quickly locate your cat, even in the dark, with audible and visual alerts.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Track your cat easily on both Android and iOS devices.
- Weatherproof Design: Durable and waterproof for continuous tracking in any weather.
For cat parents seeking comprehensive tracking and monitoring, this Tkmars GPS tracking device offers real-time location updates and advanced features.
It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor cats, providing peace of mind in various situations.
Key Benefits: Real-time tracking, geofencing, health monitoring, sound/light alarms, and waterproof design.
Keep in Mind: Requires a compatible smartphone (Android or iOS) for full functionality and might be on the large side for some cats.
#4. Cat GPS Tracker – Weenect XS
- Subscription: A monthly subscription is needed for the tracker to work.
- Real-Time GPS Tracking: Continuously updates your cat's location every second with unlimited tracking.
- No Range Limit: Track your cat anywhere in the world with no distance limitations, covering over 100 countries.
- Multi-Network Compatibility: The only 5G-ready tracker, also compatible with 4G and 2G networks, including major U.S. carriers.
- Territory Analysis: Discover where your cat spends their time outdoors with detailed territory insights.
- Long Battery Life: Lasts up to 10 days with power-saving features, and recharges in just 2 hours.
The Weenect XS stands out with its real-time tracking and no distance limit, ensuring that no matter how far your adventurer roams, you can find them.
Key Benefits: Includes a training feature to help your cat come back at the click of a button.
Keep in Mind: Requires a subscription for GPS services.
#5. Girafus Cat Tracker
- Radio Frequency Tracker: Ideal for finding cats in hidden spots where GPS trackers fail, offering peace of mind without monthly fees.
- Indoors and Outdoors: Track your cat in garages, cellars, or neighbors' homes with a range of up to 500 meters (1600 feet).
- Long Battery Life: Lasts 7-10 days on a single charge, with lightweight, rechargeable batteries included.
- Track Multiple Pets: Supports up to four cats with one to four tags.
- Complete Kit: Comes with the base unit, tags, batteries, charger, and splash-proof silicone sleeve.
- Outdoor Cats: Designed for cats that roam independently for long periods, with a longer battery life than GPS devices.
- GPS Tracking: Best for those willing to walk to find their cat, not suitable for those who prefer GPS tracking or have supervised cats.
If you’re seeking the longest range possible without GPS, this Girafus Cat Tracker RF Finder may be your best bet.
It claims the title for the longest detection range in its category.
Key Benefits: Extraordinary range for an RF tracker.
Keep in Mind: Lack of GPS means it’s still somewhat limited compared to GPS options.
#6. Ardi Cat Tracker RF Finder
- All New RF Technology: Works indoors and outdoors with a (approx.) 2000 ft direct line of sight tracking.
- Smart Distance & Direction Indicators: Tracker will guide you to your lost cat.
- Compact Tag Size: At 0.15 oz, the smallest cats can be tracked.
- Sleep Mode: When the Pet Tracker tags are within proximity, it goes to sleep mode to prolong battery life.
- Water Resistant: Silicone splash case is provided.
Similar to #5 but with a different design, the Ardi Cat Tracker offers peace of mind with its extended range.
It’s another solid choice for those who prefer RF technology.
Key Benefits: Great range and battery life.
Keep in Mind: Like other RF trackers, doesn’t provide the global tracking capability of GPS.
#7. Cat Tailer
- No Subscription Required: Attach tag like a regular name tag on cat's collar.
- Small and Lightweight: Weighs only 0.25 oz and measures 1.1 inch round, making it unobtrusive and durable.
- Bluetooth Low Energy Technology: Provides a range of up to 328 feet for locating your cat around the house or yard.
- Smartphone Connectivity: Compatible with iPhone and Android; track your cat's location and get notifications when they return in range.
- One Year Warranty: Satisfaction guarantee + support for setup and troubleshooting.
- Made in USA: Dedicated customer support.
This waterproof Cat Tailer Bluetooth device takes the prize for being one of the smallest and most lightweight trackers, perfect for any collar size.
It uses Bluetooth technology, making it excellent for nearby tracking.
Key Benefits: Super small and discreet.
Keep in Mind: The Bluetooth range is limited compared to GPS and RF options.
#8. Tile Mate Tracker
- Versatile: Attach to cat’s collar (or other items); use the app to locate your cat.
- Find Nearby: Ring your Tile within Bluetooth range or use Smart Home devices.
- Find Far Away: View the Tile's last known location on a map if out of range.
- Notify When Found: Use Tile Network for help and add contact info for returns.
- Compatible: Works with iOS, Android, Alexa, Google, and Siri.
- Tech Specs: Water-resistant (IP67), up to 3-year battery, 250 ft Bluetooth range.
- Premium Plan: Includes smart alerts and item reimbursement.
While not exclusively for pets, the Tile Mate is a versatile tracker that can easily attach to your cat’s collar.
It’s great for close-range monitoring and finding your cat in the house.
Key Benefits: Widely used and trusted brand, easy to set up.
Keep in Mind: Limited to Bluetooth range.
#9. Jiobit Gen 3 GPS Tracker
- Small, Lightweight, and Durable: Attaches discreetly to cat’s collar (and other items).
- Real-time Location Sharing: Uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for accurate, nationwide tracking with unlimited range.
- Smart Alerts & Location History: Set up alerts for entering or leaving areas and view location history for unexpected detours.
- Safe & Secure: Jiobit TrustChip ensures high security, encryption, and privacy; COPPA compliant.
- Subscription: Choose between monthly or annual plans via the Jiobit app; no additional SIM or cellular plan needed. Compatible with Android and Apple devices.
- Warranty: Includes a 1-year manufacturer limited warranty.
Though designed with humans in mind, the Jiobit Gen 3 is a fantastic, durable option for cats, thanks to its compact size and robust build.
Key Benefits: Highly durable and versatile.
Keep in Mind: May be more than what’s needed for simple cat tracking needs.
#10. GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring
- Easy to Use: No monthly fee; download omyTag from Google Play Store (Android) or findmytag from Apple App Store.
- Real-time Location Tracking: Sends secure signals every two seconds for nearby Apple devices to detect and upload location to Apple's cloud, viewable on a map.
- Lightweight: Weighs only 0.35 oz, includes rugged, drop-proof collar, and uses replaceable CR2032 batteries with up to 12 months standby time.
- Versatile: Compatible with both Android and iOS.
This generic cat tracker option doesn’t skimp on features, offering real-time location tracking and health monitoring in a compact design.
Key Benefits: Good all-rounder for both safety and health tracking.
Keep in Mind: Brand not as recognized as others on the list; hangs low so could potentially get caught on things, broken or lost.
Special Mention: Luminous Airtag Cat Collar
- Reflective & Luminous: Glow-in-the-dark design and reflective webbing enhance visibility at night.
- Real-time Tracking: Includes Apple AirTag holder for accurate, real-time tracking of your outdoor cat.
- Design: New design with a safety elastic band and buckle allows your cat to escape from obstacles while keeping AirTag secure.
- Rainproof: High-quality rubber AirTag case provides protection against water damage.
- Durable & Lightweight: Made from high-quality nylon, collar is durable and weighs only 0.5 oz.
For those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, the Luminous Airtag Cat Collar integrates seamlessly with your devices, offering a stylish and functional way to keep your cat safe.
Key Benefits: Perfect for Apple users, fashionable design.
Keep in Mind: Requires the purchase of an AirTag separately.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best GPS Tracker for Your Cat
Feel like you’re trying to navigate through a jungle of tech specs and features?
You’re not alone.
Choosing the right GPS tracker for your feline adventurer can be daunting, but it’s all about knowing what to look for.
Let’s break down the essentials to help you find the perfect match for your cat’s lifestyle and your peace of mind.
Key Features to Look For in a GPS Tracker
When it comes to tracking your cat, not all GPS devices are created equal.
Real-time tracking capabilities are a must, allowing you to see where your cat is at any given moment.
A secure and comfortable fit on your cat’s collar is crucial, as is water resistance for those adventurous kitties who might find themselves taking an unexpected dip.
Lastly, don’t overlook the app’s user interface—it should be intuitive, providing you with all the necessary information at a glance.
Understanding the Different Types of Trackers
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the acronyms and jargon, but here’s the lowdown:
- GPS trackers offer global tracking using satellites, ideal for outdoor explorers.
- RF (Radio Frequency) trackers are great for more localized tracking, offering precision but with a limited range.
- Bluetooth trackers are perfect for indoor tracking or small outdoor areas.
Each has its strengths, so consider your cat’s habits when deciding.
Battery Life and Maintenance: What to Expect
No one wants to charge a tracker every day.
Look for options with a long battery life, ideally ones that can last several days or even weeks on a single charge.
Understand the maintenance requirements too; some devices are more high-maintenance than others, requiring regular updates or cleaning to stay in top-notch condition.
Size and Comfort: Ensuring a Good Fit for Your Cat
The best tracker in the world won’t do you any good if it’s not a good fit for your cat.
Check the weight and size recommendations for each tracker to ensure it won’t be too bulky or heavy.
A comfortable cat is a happy cat—especially important since they’ll be wearing it every day.
Safety Factors: AirTag Collars
While the idea of using an AirTag to track your cat might seem appealing, it’s important to be aware of the safety concerns.
Apple advises against using AirTags for pets, primarily because their effectiveness relies on a network of iPhones/iPads nearby, which might not be the case outside your home.
Additionally, there’s a risk of your cat chewing on the AirTag, possibly ingesting harmful components or suffering from battery leakage.
Veterinarians echo these concerns and recommend more traditional methods like microchipping and ID tags.
If you decide to use an AirTag, securing it in a specially designed collar can help mitigate some risks, but it’s crucial to take preventative measures to stop your cat from escaping in the first place.
How to Use a GPS Tracker for Cats: Best Practices
Before you can rest easy knowing your cat’s adventures are just a tap away, there are a few steps to ensure you’re making the most out of this nifty device. Here’s how to set up success for both you and your adventurous kitty.
Setting Up Your Cat’s GPS Tracker Properly
First things first: read the manual.
Every tracker has its quirks, and understanding them upfront will save you a ton of headaches later.
Next, make sure it’s fully charged before attaching it to your cat’s collar for the first trial run.
It’s also wise to test the tracker in your home or yard to familiarize yourself with its features and ensure it’s working as expected.
A little prep goes a long way in keeping your cat safe.
Training Your Cat to Get Used to the Tracker
Introducing new gadgets to your cat might seem like asking a fish to ride a bicycle, but with patience, it’s totally doable.
- Start by letting your cat inspect the tracker at their own pace, without forcing it on them.
- Attach the tracker to their collar for short periods while at home, gradually increasing the time as they become more comfortable.
- Offering delicious, high-value treats or their favorite type of petting or praise can make the new addition a positive experience.
The goal is for your cat to associate the tracker with safety and comfort, not restriction.
Monitoring and Interpreting the Data Correctly
Now that your cat is geared up, it’s time to get tech-savvy.
Keeping an eye on the data your tracker provides is crucial, but it’s also essential to know what you’re looking for.
Familiarize yourself with the normal parameters of your cat’s activities, so you can quickly spot anything out of the ordinary.
Whether it’s a drastic change in activity levels or venturing into uncharted territories, understanding these patterns will help you ensure your cat’s safety.
Also, consider setting up safe zones and alerts if your tracker offers these features, as they can provide immediate notifications if your cat wanders too far from home.
How GPS Trackers Can Enhance Your Cat’s Safety
Monitoring your cat’s location goes beyond knowing if they’re lounging on the sofa or causing mischief in the garden.
It’s about ensuring their safety and well-being in a world that’s not as cat-friendly as we’d hope.
Outdoor adventures can turn risky with the threat of busy roads, predatory animals, irritated neighbors, and the chance of getting lost.
A tracker can alert you if your cat wanders too far, ensure they’re getting enough activity, and even monitor their health.
This transition from stress and worry to reassurance and peace of mind, from searching frantically and randomly around the neighborhood to a simple glance at an app, is nothing short of revolutionary in the way we care for our adventurous felines.
FAQs
How accurate are GPS trackers for cats?
GPS trackers have become the unsung heroes for pet parents everywhere, boasting impressive accuracy.
Typically, they can pinpoint your cat’s location within a few feet.
However, it’s important to note that accuracy can vary depending on the device’s quality and the surrounding environment—dense urban areas or heavy forestation can sometimes throw off the signal.
But all in all, you can expect a relatively high degree of precision that should be more than adequate for keeping tabs on your roving kitty in most cases.
What is the difference between a Bluetooth, GPS, and Radio Frequency Tracker?
- GPS trackers use satellites and can provide global coverage, ideal for outdoor adventurers.
- Bluetooth trackers are more suited for close-range location tracking, perfect for indoor pets or those with a small roaming area.
- Radio Frequency (RF) trackers strike a middle ground, offering more range than Bluetooth without the need for a GPS’s subscription service.
Each has its pros and cons, so consider your and your cat’s specific needs when choosing.
Can a GPS tracker help in recovering a lost cat?
The whole idea behind a GPS tracker is to give you real-time updates on your cat’s whereabouts.
This technology has been a game-changer in reuniting worried pet parents with their adventurous cats.
Remember Spencer’s story?
If he had been wearing a GPS tracker, those 3½ months of worry could have been avoided.
It’s an invaluable tool in your arsenal for ensuring your cat’s safety and your peace of mind.
Do all GPS trackers for cats require a subscription?
Many GPS trackers come with the caveat of a monthly or yearly subscription.
This fee usually covers access to the cellular network that the tracker uses to send its location data to your smartphone.
However, not all trackers require a subscription—some use different technologies like RF or Bluetooth to communicate.
It’s all about finding the right balance between the features you want and the ongoing costs you’re comfortable with.
