Do some cats never learn to use a cat flap?!

[Tinfoiled]

2 rescue cats have been using it while it's taped open with no problem but can't seem to get the hang of pushing it themselves. Have been trying the taping it lower so they have to push it but one cat is showing no sign of being able to get that she has to push it. They need to learn before we go on holiday so that the cat sitter can turn the lock so they come in and then can't get out. Any tips?

[RubbishMantra]

1)Arm yourself with whatever their favourite treat is, like prawns, chicken, tuna.

2) Sit patiently on the other side of the flap.

3) Wave treat around in a tempting fashion.

Aaaannd be prepared to do that for some time.

If that fails, post them through a few times.

[PoorNeglectedBike]

Mine won't. I think she's a bit thick

[PeanutButterOnly]

I'm wondering if my adopted cat has ever used a flap in his previous at least two homes. He's not been let out yet but has shown no interest in the cat flap we have installed. He was being let out the door I think. Patient training may be needed here too

[tacal]

my cat has a hooded litter tray with a flap. She seems to go in no problem but it takes her a very long time to get out. It is as if she doesn't really understand how the flap works when she is in it. But she does always get out. Would having a litter tray with a flap help your cat get used to flaps? I left the flap open for the first day.

[Tinfoiled]

Well the intensive cat flap training has commenced and I'm pleased to report they do seem to be slowly getting the hang of it! I am lowering the cat flap more and more (using Sellotape!) so they have to push it to get out or in! Tacal, they do have a covered tray with flap but I'd taken that off. The one who is struggling to 'get' the cat flap most actually goes outside to do her business anyway.

[FizzyFeet]

Try putting a couple of pot plants just outside the cat flap. For ages we thought ours was too dim to work out how to use it, but it turns out she was just nervous of going outside without being able to see or smell what she was stepping out into. She's happy using it now if her slaves don't open the door, that is

[Donnakim]

Oh dear, I remember trying to teach our cat to use a flap in our old house. I was flat on the floor posting her through to DH and giving her treats each time she went through. Then I went off to leave her to it, running back in to give her a treat each time I heard the flap go.
Eventually I wondered why she was always on the same side of the flap when I came to reward her. So I waited behind the door watching. The cow was smacking the flap with her paw and then looking for a payout!