Keeping our feline companions safe is a top priority for any cat owner. While microchipping and attentive supervision are essential, a Gps Cat Collar provides an extra layer of security, especially for adventurous outdoor cats or those with a knack for escaping. These innovative devices offer peace of mind by allowing you to track your cat’s location in real-time, whether they’re exploring the neighborhood or simply hiding somewhere in the house.
To help you choose the best option for your furry friend, we’ve rigorously tested a variety of cat trackers, focusing on accuracy, ease of use, and cat-friendly design. While the Tractive GPS Cat LTE + Tracker stands out as our top overall GPS cat collar, it might not be the perfect fit for every cat or owner. That’s why we’ve compiled a diverse selection of top-rated GPS cat collars and alternative tracking solutions to suit various needs and preferences.
At a Glance: Best GPS Cat Collars and Trackers
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Looking for a quick comparison of the best GPS cat collars and trackers? The table below highlights key features of each product. Detailed reviews and more information are available further down in this article.
Overall Best GPS Cat Collar
Tractive GPS Cat LTE + Tracker Packaging
Tractive Logo
10.0
Picked by 31 people today!
Tractive GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring for Cats
- Unlimited range GPS cat collar with no distance limitations
- Virtual fence feature with smartphone alerts
- Wi-Fi power-saving and 7-day battery life
$49.99 At Tractive
Runner Up GPS Cat Collar
Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker 
Jiobit Logo
9.8
Picked by 31 people today!
Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker
- Accurate live mode GPS tracking for cats
- Lightweight and water-resistant GPS cat collar
- Versatile attachment to existing cat collars
Best GPS Cat Collar for Small Cats (Alternative RF Tracker)
Tabcat RF Tracker for Small Cats
Tabcat Logo
9.7
Picked by 18 people today!
Tabcat RF Tracker
- Lightweight and easy to use cat tracker
- Directional accuracy for finding cats
- Suitable for multiple cats with one handset
Best Bluetooth Cat Collar Tracker (Short Range Option)
Cat Tailer Bluetooth Cat Tracker
CAT TAILER Logo
9.6
Picked by 21 people today!
Cat Tailer
- Smallest and lightest Bluetooth cat tracker
- User-friendly app interface
- Ideal for indoor and yard use to locate cats
Best Radio Frequency Cat Collar Tracker (No Subscription)
Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker
9.5
Picked by 25 people today!
Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker
- Long battery life RF cat tracker, up to 45 days
- Customizable safety zones for cat tracking
- No monthly fees, Wi-Fi, GPS, or cellular needed
Best GPS Cat Collar for Urban Environments (Community-Based)
Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag
Pawscout Logo
9.3
Picked by 31 people today!
Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag
- Community pet finder Bluetooth tag for cats
- Neighborhood pet-friendly network via app
- No subscription fees for cat tracking
Best GPS Cat Collar for Indoor Use (Budget Bluetooth Option)
Apple AirTag for Indoor Cat Tracking
Apple Logo
9.2
Picked by 31 people today!
Apple Air Tags
- “Ping” feature to locate cats indoors
- “Lost Mode” alerts via iPhone network
- Long battery life for indoor cat tracking
Best RF Cat Collar Tracker for Multiple Cats
Girafus Logo
9.0
Picked by 21 people today!
Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder
- Long-range RF cat tracker (1,600 feet)
- 30-day battery life for cat tracking
- No monthly fees for multiple cat tracking
Best Budget GPS Cat Collar Tracker
Tracki GPS Tracker for Cats 
Tracki Logo
9.0
Picked by 18 people today!
Tracki GPS Tracker
- Affordable GPS cat collar with worldwide coverage
- Lifetime warranty on GPS cat tracker device
- Waterproof and durable for outdoor cats
Why Trust Cats.com for GPS Cat Collar Reviews
At Cats.com, our reviews are built on thorough research and hands-on testing. For this guide to the best GPS cat collars, I dedicated countless hours to researching different types of cat trackers, examining market options, and analyzing hundreds of customer reviews.
Our evaluation process includes assessing the ease of setup and assembly for each GPS cat collar. We then have our feline testers wear the trackers to assess their comfort and security. Our goal is to determine if these GPS cat collars are easy to put on, secure enough to stay attached, and comfortable for cats to wear without causing distress.
After observing our cats wearing the GPS cat collars around the house, setting up data plans (where applicable), and familiarizing ourselves with the associated apps and receivers, we put the trackers to the test. To simulate a real-world escape scenario and evaluate the GPS cat collars’ effectiveness, we conducted a hide-and-seek test.
tester holding several cat trackers for field testingWe tested the accuracy and connectivity of each GPS cat collar and tracker device. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
In this test, one person used the receiver – or smartphone app for GPS trackers – while another acted as a “runaway cat,” taking the trackers to hidden outdoor locations.
Beyond our product testing, we consulted with veterinary professionals and cat behaviorists to gain expert insights into the essential features of effective GPS cat collars and trackers.
Based on our comprehensive findings, we selected the following nine cat trackers as the best available options, catering to various needs and preferences in GPS cat collars and related technologies.
Note: A previous version of this article was authored by Mallory Crusta. This updated version features newly tested and reviewed products by Liz Coleman.
Top GPS Cat Collar Picks Explained
While our recommendations have been updated in this article, we still value the insights shared by Mallory in her video review.
Our rankings are determined by numerous factors. Because every cat is unique, the Tractive GPS Cat Collar, while our top pick, might not be the ideal solution for your specific cat. To assist you in selecting the perfect GPS cat collar, we’ve categorized our recommendations by size, technology type, optimal usage settings, and other crucial considerations.
| Product Name | Type of Device | Weight | Battery Life | Includes App? | Accuracy Level | Price | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tractive GPS Tracker | GPS | 1.2 ounces OR 0.9 ounces for Mini size | 2-5 days | Yes | Mid | $39.93 for regular device; 49.99€for Mini | 1-year |
| Jiobit GPS Tracker | GPS | 0.6 ounces | 7 days | Yes | High | $129.99 | 1-year |
| Tabcat RF Tracker | Radio Frequency | 6 grams | 4-12 months | Yes | High | $109.99 | 2-year |
| Cat Tailer Tracker | Bluetooth | 7.9 grams | 6 months | Yes | Low | $67.00 | 1-year |
| Eureka Marco Polo Tracker | Self-Contained RF | 0.8 ounces | Up to 45 days | No | High | $364.95 | 90 days |
| Pawscout Bluetooth Tag | Bluetooth | 1.28 ounces | N/A | Yes | $26.99 | 1-year | |
| Apple AirTags | Bluetooth | 0.39 ounces | 1 year | Yes | $36.99 | 1-year | |
| Girafus Pro-Track-Tor | Radio Frequency | 4.2 grams | Up to 30 days | No | High | $85.99 | N/A |
| Tracki GPS Tracker | GPS | 1 ounce | 3 days | Yes | $18.88 | Lifetime warranty |
#1 Overall Best GPS Cat Collar: Tractive GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring for Cats
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
49.99€ At Tractive $49.99 At Amazon
Read Our Full Product Review
- Type of Device: GPS + LTE
- Weight: 1.2 ounces
- Battery Life: 7-day battery life
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: High accuracy
The newly updated Tractive GPS Cat LTE + tracker is our top choice for GPS cat collars, utilizing LTE cellular technology to accurately pinpoint your cat’s location via GPS. This device encompasses all the essential features of a high-quality GPS cat collar, including customizable virtual fences and instant mobile alerts when your cat ventures beyond your set boundaries.
Setting up the Tractive GPS cat collar is remarkably simple. The app guides you through each step, from attaching the device to your cat’s collar to creating a personalized profile for your pet. The Tractive app is user-friendly, intuitive, and clearly laid out. It also provides timely notifications when the GPS cat collar’s battery is running low.
A standout feature of this GPS cat collar is its remote-activated LED light. With a simple tap within the app, you can illuminate a light on the tracker, a particularly useful function for locating your cat in low-light conditions or at night.
In its default tracking mode, the Tractive GPS cat collar updates your cat’s location every 2 to 60 minutes. For more precise tracking, the live mode offers updates every two to three seconds. When actively searching for your cat, the live tracking mode allows you to narrow down their location. The Find mode further assists by displaying rings on the screen as you get closer to your cat. From this mode, you can also activate the collar’s LED light or a sound indicator to aid in your search.
The Tractive GPS cat collar has been redesigned with a curved shape to enhance your cat’s comfort. Despite its robust features, the device remains lightweight at just 1.2 ounces and easily attaches to any standard cat collar. For smaller breeds, a “mini” version weighing 0.9 ounces is available, though it offers slightly reduced battery life (2 days compared to the standard 3.5 days).
white cat wearing Tractive Mini GPS cat collarThe Cats.com team tested both sizes of the Tractive GPS cat collar. Floyd found the “mini” version comfortable to wear. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
While the latest model boasts improvements like a Wi-Fi power-saving feature to extend battery life when within Wi-Fi range, it no longer includes a spare battery, which was included in previous versions. However, the new model compensates with an extended battery life of up to 7 days, a significant improvement over the previous 2- to 3-day battery life.
Beyond location tracking, this GPS cat collar also offers valuable health insights. It monitors your cat’s activity levels and sleep patterns, sending Health Alert emails if significant deviations are detected. This proactive health monitoring can be instrumental in identifying potential health issues early on.
What We Liked in the Tractive GPS Cat Collar:
- Unlimited range GPS cat collar tracking
- Virtual fence alerts sent directly to your phone
- Wi-Fi power-saving and extended 7-day battery life
- Affordable GPS cat collar option
- Integrated LED light for nighttime location
What We Didn’t Like in the Tractive GPS Cat Collar:
- Relies on consistent cell coverage
- Requires a monthly data plan subscription ($5–13/month)
- Even the mini version is relatively large
#2 Runner Up GPS Cat Collar: Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: GPS
- Weight: 0.6 ounces
- Battery Life: 7-day battery life
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: High accuracy
Originally designed for child safety, the Jiobit GPS Tracker has expanded its market to include pets, and it excels as a GPS cat collar. This tracker provides a comprehensive feature set with reliable performance, all within a lightweight and compact design suitable for cats.
The Jiobit GPS cat collar utilizes advanced GPS technology to deliver real-time, turn-by-turn tracking in its Live Mode. In our hands-on testing, we found the Jiobit to be exceptionally accurate, potentially even more so than the Tractive GPS cat collar. The virtual fence feature also performed flawlessly, sending immediate notifications whenever the tracker crossed a designated boundary.
Bluetooth connectivity is another valuable feature of this GPS cat collar, ensuring reliable tracking even indoors. You can also activate a sound indicator to help pinpoint your cat’s hiding spot within your home.
The Jiobit GPS cat collar boasts a small and discreet design. It easily clips onto your cat’s existing collar and, weighing only 0.6 ounces, is unlikely to cause discomfort or be bothersome to your cat. The tracker is also water-resistant for durability, and optional fabric sleeves are available for personalization.
Battery life is a strong point for the Jiobit GPS cat collar. A single charge, taking approximately 2.5 hours, can power the device for up to a week under optimal conditions, outperforming many other GPS cat collars we tested.
Priced at $129.99, the Jiobit GPS cat collar is a higher-end option compared to some others. In addition to the initial purchase price, a monthly subscription starting at $8.99 is required.
What We Liked in the Jiobit GPS Cat Collar:
- Highly accurate GPS tracking in Live Mode for cats
- Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant GPS cat collar
- Attaches to existing cat collars for convenience
- Long-lasting battery, up to 7 days on a single charge
- Bluetooth connectivity for indoor tracking
What We Didn’t Like in the Jiobit GPS Cat Collar:
- Requires a monthly subscription plan (starting at $8.99)
- Bluetooth connectivity can be occasionally unreliable
#3 Best GPS Cat Collar for Small Cats (Alternative RF Tracker): Tabcat RF Tracker
Tabcat RF Tracker in useLiz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Radio Frequency
- Weight: 4.2 grams
- Battery Life: 4–12 months
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level: High
- Warranty: 2 years
While not a GPS cat collar, the Loc8tor Tabcat RF Tracker is an excellent alternative, especially for smaller cats who might find GPS collars too bulky. This compact and lightweight RF tracker is specifically designed for cats. The tracker module, encased in a protective rubber shell, attaches to your cat’s collar and communicates with a handheld receiver device.
The Tabcat handset uses a series of color-coded lights and audible beeps to indicate signal strength and proximity to your cat. This intuitive system guides you closer to your cat’s location. A single handset can be paired with up to four trackers, making it easy to monitor multiple cats in your household with Tabcat trackers on their collars.
orange cat wearing Tabcat tracker on collarWessie demonstrating the Tabcat tracker in its splashproof silicone case. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
After a quick and simple activation, the Tabcat tracker is ready for use. The handset is straightforward and intuitive to operate, consistently providing accurate readings during indoor tests. However, its effectiveness is more limited in outdoor environments. Unlike GPS cat collars that offer immediate navigation assistance, the Tabcat’s 400-foot range means you’ll need to manually search a wider area before picking up a signal.
Once within its operational range, the Tabcat delivers pinpoint accuracy, reliably guiding you directly to your cat’s location.
What We Liked in the Tabcat RF Tracker:
- Easy to attach, activate, and use for cat tracking
- Provides precise directional information
- One handset supports up to four tracking modules
- Affordable cat tracker with no subscription fees
- Effective for both indoor and outdoor use
What We Didn’t Like in the Tabcat RF Tracker:
- Limited 400-foot tracking range
#4 Best Bluetooth Cat Collar Tracker: Cat Tailer
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Bluetooth
- Weight: 7.9 grams
- Battery Life: 6 months
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: Low
- Price: $67.00
- Warranty: 1-year
The Cat Tailer Bluetooth tracker, while not a GPS cat collar, is a very small and lightweight option, resembling a bottle cap in size and weight. This makes it suitable for cats who are sensitive to bulkier devices around their necks. However, its tracking range is limited, making it less helpful if your cat ventures far.
The Cat Tailer’s 328-foot range is relatively broad for a Bluetooth tracker, but significantly shorter compared to GPS cat collars and RF trackers. While it can assist in locating your cat within this range, you’ll still need to search your cat’s usual areas until you come within signal distance.
cat wearing Cat Tailer tracker on collarEven 7-pound Forest was comfortable wearing the lightweight Cat Tailer tracker. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
In outdoor tests, the Cat Tailer proved less effective beyond visual range. Connection was lost within minutes of the test partner moving out of sight. The app interface lacks directional cues, providing only distance metrics as a radius. This necessitates a trial-and-error approach to locate your cat.
Even within signal range, the Cat Tailer’s location accuracy was inconsistent. Readings fluctuated by approximately 30 feet, even when the tracker was stationary. The Bluetooth connection also proved unstable, frequently sending false “out of range” notifications despite close proximity.
The Cat Tailer is best suited for indoor use and for cats with predictable outdoor habits within a limited area. Within its Bluetooth range, it can help narrow down your search, provided you can get close to your cat’s likely location.
What We Liked in the Cat Tailer Bluetooth Tracker:
- Very small and lightweight Bluetooth cat tracker, ideal for kittens and small cats
- Extremely user-friendly app interface
- Useful for locating cats indoors or in the immediate yard
What We Didn’t Like in the Cat Tailer Bluetooth Tracker:
- Very limited detection range, shortest among pet trackers
- Inconsistent Bluetooth signal reliability
#5 Best Radio Frequency Cat Collar Tracker: Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker
Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker
$364.95 At Amazon $274.95 At EurekaProducts.com
- Type of Device: Self-contained RF
- Weight: 0.8 ounces
- Battery Life: Up to 45 days
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level: High
- Warranty: 90 days
The Eureka Marco Polo Tracker is a unique, self-contained tracking system, distinct from GPS cat collars that rely on cellular networks. This RF-based pet tracker operates without GPS or cellular service, eliminating monthly subscription fees and making it ideal for travel with your cat.
The Eureka Marco Polo Tracker is available in single-pet and multi-pet configurations. Additional tracking tags can be purchased to monitor more pets. The tags are robustly constructed to withstand rough conditions and water immersion. They attach securely to your cat’s collar using a durable ballistic nylon holder. Battery life is exceptional, lasting up to 45 days.
This system allows you to monitor your cat’s location within four programmable safety zones. Alternatively, you can activate the lost pet tracking feature for real-time distance and direction feedback.
Unlike many GPS cat collars that use smartphone apps, the Eureka Marco Polo Tracker uses a dedicated handset locator, functioning like a personal radar system with a range of up to 2 miles in open areas. If your cat is beyond this range, you’ll need to move around to locate them, but it works effectively if your cat typically stays relatively close to home.
Overall, the Eureka Marco Polo Tracker is a strong choice if you want to monitor your cat’s location within a limited radius around your home without subscription fees. Its self-contained nature is advantageous for travel and areas with poor cellular coverage. However, the 2-mile range limitation and potential range reduction in rough terrain or weather should be considered.
What We Liked in the Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker:
- Long battery life, up to 45 days per charge
- Programmable safety zones for cat monitoring
- Operates without Wi-Fi, GPS, or cellular networks
- Expandable system for multiple pets with additional tags
- One-time purchase, no monthly subscriptions
What We Didn’t Like in the Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker:
- Limited tracking range
- Range may be further reduced by terrain and obstacles
#6 Best GPS Cat Collar for Urban Areas: Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Bluetooth
- Weight: 1.28 ounces
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: –
- Price: $25.62
- Warranty: 1 year
The Pawscout Bluetooth Tracker, while not a GPS cat collar in the traditional sense, offers a community-based approach to pet finding, making it particularly useful in urban environments. It alerts you if your cat wanders outside a designated safe zone.
Pawscout’s unique strength lies in its digital community, designed to help reunite lost pets. If your cat goes missing, you can send out an alert via the app, notifying Pawscout users in your vicinity. If someone finds your cat, they can scan the tag and connect with you to arrange a reunion.
The Pawscout app is comprehensive, offering features like pet profiles with photos, contact information, medical details, and behavioral notes. You can also include microchip and license numbers. This information assists rescuers in caring for your cat while trying to reconnect you.
The app also includes a social feed for pet owners to share questions, local pet hazard alerts, and connect with other pet parents. Pawscout allows users to log walks and set up virtual outdoor boundaries. There are no subscription fees, and the app is free to use.
What We Liked in the Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag:
- Community-based pet finding network
- Connects local pet parents and pet businesses
- Free app with no monthly fees
- Water-resistant design
- Includes a spare CR2032 battery
What We Didn’t Like in the Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag:
- Can be bulky for smaller cats
- Limited long-distance range (approximately 300 feet)
#7 Best GPS Cat Collar for Indoor Cats: Apple Air Tags
Apple AirTags for pet trackingLiz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Bluetooth
- Weight: 0.39 ounces
- Battery Life: 1 year
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level: –
- Price:$39.98
- Warranty: 1 year
Apple AirTags, primarily designed for tracking everyday items, can be repurposed as a budget-friendly indoor cat tracker, although Apple does not officially recommend them for pets. They offer a simple solution for pet owners seeking basic indoor tracking without the cost of dedicated GPS cat collars.
AirTags utilize Bluetooth technology, limiting their range to approximately 100 feet, making them most effective indoors. If your cat frequently hides inside your home, you can “ping” the AirTag, and it will emit a sound to help locate them.
AirTags also leverage the extensive network of Apple devices. If your cat wanders outside and comes within range of another iPhone, the location of your AirTag can be anonymously updated, increasing the chances of finding your cat, especially in populated areas.
Priced affordably around $29, AirTags require no subscription fees. If your cat goes missing, activating “Lost Mode” in the “Find My” app will send you a notification if the tag comes within Bluetooth range of any iPhone user. You’ll also receive the location and can include a message with care instructions for anyone who finds your cat.
However, AirTags are less effective in sparsely populated areas, and their limited Bluetooth range makes them primarily suitable for indoor or very close-range tracking. They are also not compatible with Android devices.
What We Liked in Apple Air Tags for Indoor Cat Tracking:
- Built-in speaker “ping” feature for indoor location
- “Lost Mode” alerts via the Apple iPhone network
- Long 1-year battery life
- No subscription fees
- Lightweight and water-resistant
- Affordable tracking option
What We Didn’t Like in Apple Air Tags for Indoor Cat Tracking:
- Limited usefulness in unpopulated areas without iPhone users
- Requires a separate cat collar attachment
- Not compatible with Android devices
#8 Best RF Cat Collar Tracker for Multiple Cats: Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Radio Frequency
- Weight: 4.2 grams
- Battery Life: 30 days
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level: High
- Price: $97.49
- Warranty: N/A
The Girafus RF tracker stands out as one of the longest-range radio frequency trackers available, offering a signal range of up to 1,600 feet. It supports up to four tracking tags, each in a distinct color, making it ideal for households with multiple cats. While not a GPS cat collar, it offers a reliable, subscription-free tracking solution.
Setting up the Girafus Pro-Track-Tor was the most involved of the trackers we tested. It required battery installation in both the tracker and receiver, assembling the case, handling small screws, and learning the startup procedure, taking approximately 18 minutes in total.
orange cat wearing Girafus tracker on collarThe low-profile Girafus tracker features a cat-friendly design. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
The tracker’s silicone case fits over slim collars and includes Velcro straps for wider collars. It is lightweight and low-profile, making it comfortable for smaller cats.
Once set up, operation is straightforward. Calibration involves a few 360-degree turns. Upon signal detection, the receiver emits a high-pitched tone and uses colored lights to indicate distance.
The Girafus performed consistently well both indoors and outdoors. In our lost cat simulation, it successfully located the tracker hidden in a wooded area, proving its reliability where Bluetooth trackers failed to maintain a signal.
What We Liked in the Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder:
- Exceptional 1,600-foot range among RF trackers
- Up to 30-day battery life
- No monthly subscription fees
- High level of accuracy
- Smallest and most cat-friendly tracker in our review
- One handset supports up to 4 trackers
What We Didn’t Like in the Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder:
- Some users report battery loosening issues, causing inconsistent performance
- Receiver is bulky and less pocket-friendly
#9 Best Budget GPS Cat Collar Tracker: Tracki GPS Tracker
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
$18.88 At Chewy $18.88 At Amazon
- Type of Device: GPS
- Weight: 1 ounce
- Battery Life: 3 days
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: –
- Price: $18.88
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty, including lost and damaged device
The Tracki GPS Tracker is a remarkably affordable GPS cat collar option, priced under $20. Subscription plans are also competitively priced, with prepaid two-year plans at $3.99 per month (month-to-month is $9.95). Tracki offers global coverage in areas with GSM cellular service.
Designed primarily for dogs, the Tracki GPS Tracker may be somewhat bulky for smaller cats but could be suitable for larger breeds.
The Tracki app enables pet profile creation and a lost pet alarm feature that shares your cat’s photo and contact information. You can also share your cat’s location with up to ten contacts. The live tracking feature provides real-time location updates, limited to 15 uses per day. Geofencing allows you to set virtual boundaries and receive alerts when your cat crosses them.
What We Liked in the Tracki GPS Cat Collar Tracker:
- Unlimited range and worldwide coverage GPS cat collar
- Lifetime warranty covering device loss and damage
- Waterproof and durable design
- App displays remaining battery life
- Includes silicone sleeve and ring for versatile attachment
What We Didn’t Like in the Tracki GPS Cat Collar Tracker:
- Heavier device, potentially uncomfortable for smaller cats
- Live tracking limited to 15 times daily
Understanding the 3 Types of Cat Trackers: GPS, RF, and Bluetooth
Cat trackers utilize three main technologies: GPS, Radio Frequency (RF), and Bluetooth. The best type for you depends on your cat’s outdoor habits and your tracking needs. GPS cat collars offer the most comprehensive features for long-range tracking.
1. Global Positioning System (GPS) Cat Collars
GPS cat collars use satellites to provide precise location data. They offer the most robust location tracking, displaying your cat’s location on a map with the longest detection range, often spanning miles.
These GPS cat collars connect to smartphone apps, enabling features like safe zone creation, activity monitoring, and real-time location viewing. Some even provide health metrics such as calorie burn and sleep duration.
However, GPS cat collars have limitations. Satellite signal blockage can occur indoors or under dense cover, potentially affecting accuracy. They tend to be larger and heavier than other trackers, generally recommended for cats over 8 lbs. GPS cat collars are also the most expensive, typically ranging from $70 to $200, and usually require a monthly data subscription.
2. Radio Frequency (RF) Cat Trackers
RF trackers use a radio transmitter on your cat’s collar and a handheld receiver. The receiver beeps and lights up when it detects the transmitter, indicating proximity. As you get closer, the signal intensifies, guiding you to your cat.
RF trackers excel at pinpointing location within centimeters, working effectively indoors and outdoors, even through obstacles like walls and dense vegetation. They are typically lightweight, streamlined, and boast long battery life lasting months.
However, RF trackers lack the advanced features of GPS cat collars. They don’t provide proactive alerts if your cat goes missing or offer map-based location displays. Their limited range, usually up to 1,600 feet, necessitates a more active search approach. RF cat trackers are generally priced around $100.
3. Bluetooth Cat Trackers
Bluetooth cat trackers are inexpensive, lightweight, and offer long battery life measured in months. However, they have the shortest range, typically around 300 feet.
Bluetooth trackers are suitable for finding cats hiding indoors or in a small yard. But for lost cats beyond close range, they are generally less effective than GPS cat collars or RF trackers.
Key Features to Look for in a GPS Cat Collar
Choosing the right GPS cat collar requires considering several important factors.
1. Reliable and Accurate Tracking is Key for GPS Cat Collars
A reliable and accurate GPS cat collar ensures you know when your cat leaves home, their whereabouts, and the direction to find them.
The best GPS cat collars feature long battery life, stable connections, and sufficient range to locate your cat whether they are nearby or further away.
2. User-Friendly Apps and Receivers are Essential for GPS Cat Collars
Effective GPS cat collars provide intuitive interfaces for monitoring your cat. Whether through a smartphone app or a handheld receiver, the system should be easy to use and understand.
Top-rated GPS cat collars often include helpful features like night lights, behavior alerts, and customizable in-app functions.
Virtual fences or safe zones are crucial for GPS tracking apps. These features notify you when your cat exceeds predefined boundaries. Ideally, these fences should be customizable to fit your property lines or specific areas.
3. Comfort and Secure Attachment on a GPS Cat Collar
Many trackers, originally designed for dogs, can be bulky or heavy for cats. The best GPS cat collars are lightweight and compatible with standard cat collars or harnesses, ensuring your cat’s comfort and secure attachment.
