It’s every cat parent’s nightmare: your beloved feline slipping out the door and disappearing into the unknown. While microchipping is crucial for identification, a cat tracker offers an added layer of security, allowing you to monitor your cat’s whereabouts and find them quickly should they wander too far.
This comprehensive guide reviews the best cat trackers, exploring the different types available and highlighting top picks based on hands-on testing and expert insights. We’ll also cover essential features to consider so you can choose the right tracker to keep your furry friend safe.
What is a Cat Tracker?
A cat tracker is a small device attached to your cat’s collar or harness that uses various technologies to pinpoint their location. These trackers provide peace of mind for owners of outdoor cats and can be a lifesaver in case an indoor cat escapes.
Types of Cat Trackers
Cat trackers utilize three main technologies, each with its advantages and disadvantages:
GPS Cat Trackers: Pros, Cons & How They Work
GPS cat trackers use satellite signals to determine your cat’s location and transmit that information to your smartphone via a cellular network.
Pros of GPS Cat Trackers:
- Long Range: GPS trackers have the longest range of all tracker types, often extending for miles. This is ideal for cats who roam far from home.
- Real-Time Location: Many GPS trackers offer real-time location tracking, allowing you to see your cat’s movements on a map as they happen.
- Virtual Fences: You can set up virtual fences or safe zones in the app. If your cat crosses the boundary, you’ll receive an instant alert on your phone.
- Health Insights: Some GPS trackers also monitor your cat’s activity levels and sleep patterns, providing valuable information about their overall health.
Cons of GPS Cat Trackers:
- Requires Cellular Coverage: GPS trackers rely on cellular networks to transmit data, so they may not work reliably in areas with poor or no coverage.
- Inaccurate Indoors: Buildings, dense foliage, and even thick cloud cover can block satellite signals, making GPS trackers less accurate indoors and in heavily wooded areas.
- Monthly Subscription Fees: Most GPS trackers require a monthly subscription fee for the cellular service, adding to the overall cost.
- Size & Weight: GPS trackers are often bulkier and heavier than other types, which may be uncomfortable for some cats, especially smaller ones.
Radio Frequency (RF) Cat Trackers: Pros, Cons & How They Work
RF cat trackers work by emitting a radio signal from a transmitter attached to your cat’s collar. You use a handheld receiver to pick up the signal and locate your cat.
Pros of RF Cat Trackers:
- Work Indoors & Outdoors: Unlike GPS, RF signals can penetrate walls, trees, and other obstacles, making them effective both indoors and outdoors.
- Accurate Pinpointing: RF trackers can pinpoint your cat’s location with remarkable precision, down to a few centimeters.
- No Monthly Fees: RF trackers don’t require a cellular connection or subscription plan.
- Lightweight & Compact: These trackers are typically smaller and lighter than GPS trackers, making them more comfortable for cats to wear.
- Long Battery Life: RF trackers often have a long battery life, lasting for several months on a single charge or battery replacement.
Cons of RF Cat Trackers:
- Limited Range: RF trackers have a limited range, usually up to 1,600 feet, so they won’t be helpful if your cat wanders beyond that distance.
- No Real-Time Tracking or Alerts: They don’t provide real-time location tracking on a map or send alerts if your cat leaves a designated area.
- Manual Searching Required: You need to actively search for your cat using the handheld receiver, which can be time-consuming.
Bluetooth Cat Trackers: Pros, Cons & How They Work
Bluetooth cat trackers connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth technology. They are primarily designed for close-range tracking, like finding your cat hiding in the house.
Pros of Bluetooth Cat Trackers:
- Affordable: Bluetooth trackers are generally the most affordable option.
- Lightweight & Compact: These trackers are usually very small and lightweight, making them comfortable for even the smallest cats.
- Long Battery Life: Bluetooth trackers boast a long battery life, often lasting for several months.
Cons of Bluetooth Cat Trackers:
- Very Short Range: Bluetooth trackers have a very limited range, typically around 300 feet or less, making them ineffective for finding a lost cat outdoors.
- No GPS Location Data: They don’t provide GPS location information on a map.
- Reliant on Smartphone Proximity: You need to be within Bluetooth range to track your cat.
Best Cat Trackers (Reviews)
Based on hands-on testing and research, here’s a closer look at the best cat trackers available, categorized by type and key features:
Overall Best: Tractive GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring for Cats
The Tractive GPS Cat LTE + tracker is a top performer, earning the best overall rating due to its comprehensive features and user-friendly design.
- Type: GPS + LTE
- Accuracy: High
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- Weight: 1.2 ounces (regular), 0.9 ounces (mini)
- Price: $29.99 (mini)
Key Features:
- Real-time GPS Tracking: See your cat’s location on a map with updates every 2 to 60 minutes in default tracking mode and every few seconds in live mode.
- Virtual Fences: Set up custom safe zones and receive alerts if your cat strays outside the boundaries.
- Activity & Sleep Monitoring: Track your cat’s activity levels and sleep patterns for insights into their health.
- Remote-Activated LED Light: Locate your cat in the dark with the built-in LED light that you can activate from the app.
- Find Mode: Use Find Mode to get closer to your cat’s location with increasing signal strength indicators and the option to activate the LED light or sound indicator.
- Wi-Fi Power-Saving: The tracker automatically switches to Wi-Fi when available, extending battery life.
- Subscription Required: Plans range from $5 to $13 per month.
What We Liked:
- Long Battery Life: The upgraded model offers an impressive battery life of up to 7 days, a significant improvement over the previous version.
- Accurate & Reliable: Testing confirmed accurate and consistent location updates.
- Affordable for GPS: Tractive offers one of the most competitive prices for a GPS tracker.
- User-Friendly App: The app is intuitive and easy to navigate, with clear location updates and helpful features like virtual fences and live tracking.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Cellular Coverage Required: Like all GPS trackers, the Tractive requires a reliable cellular connection for optimal performance.
- Size: Even the mini version may be a bit bulky for some cats.
Best GPS Cat Tracker: Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker
Originally designed for children, the Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker now offers advanced location-tracking technology to keep cats safe.
- Type: GPS
- Accuracy: High
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- Weight: 0.6 ounces
- Price: $129.99
Key Features:
- Real-time GPS Tracking: Provides highly accurate, real-time tracking with turn-by-turn directions in Live Mode.
- Virtual Fences: Set up safe zones and receive instant notifications if your cat wanders outside the boundaries.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Connects to your phone via Bluetooth for reliable indoor tracking and activating a sound indicator to locate your cat in the house.
- Lightweight & Durable: The small, unobtrusive tracker is water-resistant and comes with a collar for easy attachment.
What We Liked:
- Exceptional Accuracy: Hands-on testing found the Jiobit to be even more accurate than the Tractive tracker in real-world scenarios.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing only 0.6 ounces, the Jiobit is one of the lightest GPS trackers available, making it comfortable for cats of all sizes.
- Durable & Water-Resistant: Built to withstand outdoor conditions and active cats.
- Long Battery Life: Offers a full week of battery life on a single charge, exceeding many other GPS trackers.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Monthly Subscription Required: Plans start at $8.99 per month, adding to the upfront cost of the device.
- Bluetooth Inconsistency: While Bluetooth connectivity is a useful feature, some users have reported inconsistent performance.
Best Radio Frequency Cat Tracker: Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker
The Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker stands out as a unique RF tracker that doesn’t require GPS or cellular connectivity. This makes it ideal for travel and areas with limited cell service.
- Type: Self-contained RF
- Accuracy: High
- Battery Life: Up to 45 days
- Weight: 0.8 ounces
- Price: $274.95
Key Features:
- No Monthly Fees: This system operates independently, eliminating the need for a cellular subscription.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 45 days of battery life on a single charge, making it ideal for extended trips or infrequent use.
- Durable & Waterproof: Built to withstand the elements and active cats.
- Multiple Pet Tracking: You can add additional tags to track multiple pets with a single handset.
- Programmable Safety Zones: Set up four safe zones and receive alerts when your cat leaves those areas.
- Handset Locator: Uses a handheld locator device instead of a smartphone app.
- 2-Mile Range: Provides a range of up to 2 miles in open conditions.
What We Liked:
- No Subscription Costs: The absence of monthly fees is a major advantage, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.
- Long Battery Life: Outlasts most other trackers with its impressive battery life.
- Portable for Travel: Works anywhere without relying on cellular networks.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited Range: While 2 miles is generous for an RF tracker, it’s still a constraint compared to the unlimited range of GPS trackers.
- Handheld Receiver: Some users may prefer the convenience of a smartphone app over a separate handset device.
Best Bluetooth Cat Tracker: Cat Tailer
The Cat Tailer is a remarkably small and lightweight Bluetooth tracker, ideal for smaller cats or those who are sensitive to bulky devices.
- Type: Bluetooth
- Accuracy: Low
- Battery Life: Up to 6 months
- Weight: 7.9 grams
- Price: $67.00
Key Features:
- Compact & Lightweight Design: Its tiny size and weight make it a good choice for petite cats.
- Easy-to-Use App: The app provides a simple interface for tracking your cat’s location within range.
- Long Battery Life: Offers a long battery life of up to 6 months, reducing the need for frequent charging.
What We Liked:
- Ideal for Smaller Cats: The Cat Tailer’s compact size is perfect for kittens or cats who may find larger trackers uncomfortable.
- Simple App Interface: Easy to set up and use, even for those unfamiliar with pet trackers.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Very Limited Range: The 328-foot range, while broad for Bluetooth, is still quite restrictive, making it unsuitable for outdoor tracking.
- Inconsistent Performance: Testing revealed inconsistent location accuracy and unreliable Bluetooth connectivity, even within range.
Best Tracker for Small Cats: Tabcat RF Tracker
The Tabcat RF Tracker is a reliable and affordable RF tracker specifically designed for cats.
- Type: Radio Frequency
- Accuracy: High
- Battery Life: 4-12 months
- Weight: 6 grams
- Price: $99.99
Key Features:
- Lightweight & Cat-Friendly: The small tracker is designed to be comfortable for cats to wear.
- Accurate Directional Information: The handset provides clear audio and visual cues to guide you to your cat’s location.
- Multiple Pet Tracking: One handset can be paired with up to four trackers, making it convenient for multi-cat households.
- 400-Foot Range: Offers a range of up to 400 feet, suitable for indoor use and limited outdoor tracking.
What We Liked:
- Ease of Use: Setting up and using the Tabcat is straightforward, with a simple handset interface.
- Accurate & Consistent: Testing showed reliable and accurate location readings within its range.
- Affordable Price: One of the more affordable RF trackers available.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited Range: The 400-foot range can be restrictive, especially for outdoor use.
Best Tracker for Indoor Cats: Apple Air Tags
Apple AirTags, while primarily intended for finding lost items, can be used as a budget-friendly indoor cat tracker. However, it’s important to note that Apple doesn’t officially endorse this use.
- Type: Bluetooth
- Accuracy: Not specified
- Battery Life: 1 year
- Weight: 0.39 ounces
- Price: $39.98
Key Features:
- Affordable & No Subscription: AirTags are relatively inexpensive and don’t require a monthly fee.
- “Find My” Network: Leverages Apple’s vast “Find My” network to locate your cat if they come within range of an iPhone user.
- Lost Mode: Sends an alert with your contact information to any iPhone user who finds your cat and scans the AirTag.
- Long Battery Life: Offers a long battery life of approximately one year.
What We Liked:
- Crowd-Sourced Tracking: The “Find My” network can be beneficial in populated areas with many iPhone users.
- Lost Mode Alerts: Provides an extra layer of security by notifying you if someone with an iPhone finds your lost cat.
- Affordable & No Fees: A budget-friendly option with no recurring costs.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited Range: The Bluetooth range is around 100 feet, making it unsuitable for outdoor tracking.
- Ineffective in Unpopulated Areas: The “Find My” network is less helpful in rural areas with fewer iPhone users.
- Apple Device Required: Only compatible with Apple devices and the “Find My” app.
Best for Urban Areas: Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag
The Pawscout Smarter Bluetooth Tag leverages a community of pet parents to help reunite lost pets with their owners.
- Type: Bluetooth
- Accuracy: Not specified
- Weight: 1.28 ounces
- Price: $26.99
Key Features:
- Pawscout Community: If your cat goes missing, the app alerts other Pawscout users in the area who can scan the tag and contact you.
- Pet Profile: Create a detailed profile for your cat with photos, contact information, medical details, and behavioral notes to assist rescuers.
- Neighborhood Map: Connects you with local pet parents and pet-friendly businesses.
- No Subscription Fees: The app and tracking service are free to use.
What We Liked:
- Community Support: The Pawscout community can be invaluable for finding a lost cat in populated areas.
- Detailed Pet Profile: This helps to ensure your cat receives proper care if found by someone else.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited Range: Bluetooth range restricts tracking to about 300 feet.
- Bulky Design: May be too large and heavy for smaller cats.
Best for Multiple Cats: Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder
The Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder offers a long range and the ability to track multiple cats with a single handset.
- Type: Radio Frequency
- Accuracy: High
- Battery Life: Up to 30 days
- Weight: 4.2 grams
- Price: $85.99
Key Features:
- Long Range: Provides an impressive range of up to 1,600 feet, making it one of the most powerful RF trackers available.
- Multiple Pet Tracking: One handset can be paired with up to four trackers, each with a different color for easy identification.
- Accurate & Consistent: Testing demonstrated reliable and accurate location tracking within its range.
- No Monthly Fees: Operates without a subscription plan.
What We Liked:
- Exceptional Range: The long-range makes it suitable for larger properties or areas with dense vegetation.
- Multiple Pet Tracking: Convenient and cost-effective for multi-cat households.
- Reliable Performance: Testing confirmed consistent and accurate tracking capabilities.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Battery Issues: Some users have reported issues with the battery becoming loose inside the tracker, leading to inconsistent performance.
- Bulky Receiver: The handheld receiver is large and may not fit comfortably in smaller pockets.
Best Budget Cat Tracker: Tracki GPS Tracker
The Tracki GPS Tracker offers an affordable entry point into GPS tracking for cats.
- Type: GPS
- Accuracy: Not specified
- Battery Life: 3 days
- Weight: 1 ounce
- Price: $18.88
Key Features:
- Affordable Price: The lowest-priced GPS tracker on our list.
- Worldwide Coverage: Works in any location with GSM cellular service.
- Lifetime Warranty: Includes coverage for lost or damaged devices.
- Live Tracking & Geofencing: Provides real-time location tracking (limited to 15 uses per day) and virtual fence capabilities.
- Lost Pet Alarm: Activate an alarm to share your cat’s information and location with others.
What We Liked:
- Low Cost & Warranty: An attractive option for budget-conscious cat owners.
- Wide Coverage: Works in most areas with cellular service.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Bulky Design: Designed for dogs, it may be too large and heavy for smaller cats.
- Limited Live Tracking: The restriction on live tracking usage is a drawback.
What to Look for in a Cat Tracker
Choosing the right cat tracker can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Tracking Reliability & Accuracy
The primary purpose of a cat tracker is to locate your cat, so reliability and accuracy are paramount. Choose a tracker known for its consistent performance and precise location data.
2. Functional and Easy-to-use App/Receiver
Whether it’s a smartphone app or a handheld receiver, ensure the interface is user-friendly and intuitive. Essential features like virtual fences, live tracking, and clear location indicators should be readily accessible.
3. Size, Weight, and Attachment
Consider your cat’s size and comfort when choosing a tracker. Opt for a lightweight and compact design that won’t weigh them down or interfere with their movements.
Cat Tracker FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about cat trackers:
- How long does the battery last? Battery life varies greatly depending on the type of tracker and its usage. GPS trackers generally have the shortest battery life, lasting a few days, while RF and Bluetooth trackers can last for several months.
- Do all cat trackers require a monthly subscription? Only GPS trackers require a monthly subscription to cover cellular data costs. RF and Bluetooth trackers operate without subscriptions.
- Can any tracker be attached to my cat’s collar? Most trackers can be attached to any standard cat collar. However, it’s crucial to use a breakaway collar for safety to prevent your cat from becoming entangled.
- Are cat trackers accurate in wooded areas? GPS trackers may have difficulty in areas with dense tree cover due to signal obstruction. RF trackers are a better option for wooded environments as their signals can penetrate obstacles.
- Are there any health concerns related to cat trackers? There’s an ongoing debate about the potential health effects of radiation emitted by RF and Bluetooth devices. However, the levels emitted by cat trackers are low, and there’s no conclusive evidence of harm to cats. If you’re concerned, RF trackers are the least likely to emit radiation as they only transmit signals during active searching.
Conclusion
Investing in a cat tracker can provide peace of mind knowing you have a way to locate your feline friend if they wander too far. The best type of tracker for your cat depends on their lifestyle, your budget, and the environment they explore. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each type and prioritize features like tracking accuracy, range, and ease of use to find the perfect fit for your feline companion.
