Last Updated on October 8, 2024 by Dogs Vets
Introduction
With the rise in popularity of Apple’s AirTag, many cat owners have started using this small device to track their feline companions. But is the AirTag actually a good solution for monitoring your cat’s location? While it wasn’t originally designed for this purpose, some cat owners swear by it. However, after testing it myself, I found it to be less than ideal for tracking pets.
This review covers my personal experience with using AirTag for cats and explores the best alternatives.
AirTag for Cats: Does It Work?
Apple designed AirTags to help people keep track of objects—like keys, wallets, and bags. The device is great for inanimate items, but when it comes to tracking something living and active, like a cat, things get a little tricky.
Size and Fit: Is AirTag Too Big for Cats?
The AirTag itself is small and lightweight, weighing only 11 grams. However, that size and weight may not be as convenient for cats as one might hope. I tested it on my own large cat, and she was visibly uncomfortable. The AirTag hung awkwardly from her collar, and she attempted to remove it multiple times. For smaller cats, this could be even more problematic, causing distress or even injury.
Additionally, the AirTag requires a separate collar attachment, which is an added expense and can create further discomfort for your pet.
Real-Time Tracking Accuracy: AirTag’s Weak Point
While AirTags offer location tracking, their technology isn’t as sophisticated as a true GPS tracker. AirTags work via Bluetooth and Apple’s Find My network, meaning their accuracy largely depends on proximity to other Apple devices.
Indoor Tracking: In my house, the AirTag worked well enough, showing me which room my cat was in. But that’s where the good news ends.
Outdoor Tracking: This is where the AirTag really struggled. The further my cat got from my iPhone and other Apple devices, the less accurate the tracking became. In fact, one scary incident occurred when the AirTag fell off my cat while she was outside. I was able to find the AirTag in the backyard, but my cat was nowhere near it. If this had happened while she was farther away, finding her could have been a serious issue.
Why AirTag Isn’t Ideal for Cats
- Limited Range: The AirTag relies on Bluetooth and nearby Apple devices, which means it’s less effective when your cat wanders far from home.
- Size Issues: The AirTag, while small for humans, can feel cumbersome for pets—especially smaller cats.
- Safety Concerns: If the AirTag comes off, it may leave your pet untraceable, adding more stress than peace of mind.
AirTag Attachments for Cats: Necessary But Unreliable
Since AirTags aren’t designed to attach directly to pets, you’ll need a special holder or collar designed for the purpose. Many third-party retailers, especially on Amazon, sell these AirTag holders for pets. Unfortunately, in my experience, these accessories often didn’t stay secure and added bulk to my cat’s collar, which made her even more uncomfortable.
AirTag Alternatives for Cats: GPS Trackers That Work
While the AirTag might suffice for casual, indoor tracking, there are better options out there for keeping an eye on your cat—especially if they’re the kind to wander outside.
1. Tractive GPS Cat Tracker
My top recommendation for a cat-specific tracking device is the Tractive GPS Cat Tracker. Unlike the AirTag, the Tractive uses GPS technology designed specifically for pets, providing real-time tracking, accurate location data, and no reliance on proximity to other devices.
- Real-time tracking: Tractive allows you to follow your cat’s movements on a map in real-time.
- Unlimited range: It works wherever your cat goes, even if they wander miles away from home.
- Safe-zone alerts: You can set up virtual boundaries, and the app will notify you if your cat leaves the designated area.
For active, adventurous cats, this is a much better option than AirTag.
2. Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker
Another good alternative is the Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker, which is small, lightweight, and designed for pets. It offers accurate real-time tracking via GPS and can alert you when your pet leaves a designated area.
3. Cube Pro Bluetooth Tracker
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable tracking system, the Cube Pro offers a good compromise. While it’s not as robust as a GPS tracker, it has better range and tracking capabilities compared to the AirTag.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is AirTag Too Heavy for Cats?
No, the AirTag is lightweight, but whether it’s too heavy depends on your cat’s size. Larger cats may be able to tolerate it better than smaller ones, but discomfort is still a major issue for most cats.
2. Can You Attach an AirTag to a Cat’s Collar?
Yes, you can attach an AirTag to a cat’s collar, but you will need a third-party attachment, as Apple doesn’t officially make pet accessories for the AirTag.
3. Are AirTags Good for Tracking Cats?
Not really. AirTags are better suited for tracking objects, not pets. If you’re serious about tracking your cat’s location, it’s better to invest in a GPS tracker designed specifically for pets.
4. Can I Use AirTag Instead of a GPS Tracker?
While you can use an AirTag in some cases, it lacks the real-time tracking features and accuracy of a dedicated GPS tracker like Tractive or Jiobit.
5. What is the Best GPS Tracker for Cats?
The best GPS tracker for cats, in my opinion, is the Tractive GPS Cat Tracker. It offers real-time tracking, unlimited range, and safe-zone alerts, making it ideal for adventurous cats.
Conclusion: Is AirTag Worth It for Cats?
While Apple’s AirTag may seem like a convenient, budget-friendly option for tracking your cat, it has significant limitations when compared to dedicated pet trackers. The lack of real-time GPS tracking, limited range, and potential discomfort for your cat make it less than ideal. For better peace of mind, I recommend investing in a reliable GPS tracker, like the Tractive GPS Cat Tracker, which is designed specifically for pets.
References
- Apple. (2023). AirTag Overview. Apple. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
- PetMD. (2023). Best Pet GPS Trackers. PetMD. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
