Last Updated on 16/10/2025 by Liza Brits
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Ever wondered where your cat disappears to for hours, or tired of having to continuously search for them? Whether you’ve got a daring outdoor explorer or a sneaky indoor escape artist, not knowing your feline’s whereabouts can be stressful. That’s where GPS trackers for cats come in.
These smart devices let you monitor your cat’s location in real time, set up safe zones, and some even double up as a health monitor as well.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 4 best GPS trackers for cats in 2025, comparing their features, costs, pros and cons, and what makes each one ideal for different types of cat owners. Whether you want full-blown real-time GPS or a simple, no-subscription alternative, we’ve got you covered.
😺 Why GPS Trackers Are Gaining Popularity Among Cat Owners in the U.S. and Other Countries
As more pet parents treat their cats like family (because, let’s be honest—they are), pet tech has surged in popularity. According to recent U.S. trends, safety-focused gadgets like GPS collars are becoming must-haves, not luxuries.
Here’s why:
- Lost pets are more common than you think: An estimated 10 million pets go missing each year in the U.S.
- Cats are stealthy: Unlike dogs, they’re silent, nimble, and great at hiding—indoors or outdoors.
- Peace of mind = priceless: Even if your cat never goes far, knowing exactly where they are brings huge comfort.
GPS trackers have evolved to be smaller, lighter, and smarter, making them ideal for even petite felines. Some require monthly subscriptions for GPS service, while others work offline, offering flexibility depending on your budget and needs.
🏆 Summary of the 4 Best GPS Trackers for Cats in 2025
- Tractive CAT Mini
- Weenect GPS Tracker for Cats
- TabCat V2 Cat & Kitten Tracker
- LootPaw GPS Tracker for Cats
1. Tractive CAT Mini GPS Tracker for Cats – Best overall for cats that love to roam
Usually priced around $49.99
This GPS tracker for cats uses a SIM card and sends data back to the app via mobile networks. It is recommended for cats 7 lbs/3 kg and above.
Why it stands out:
Real-time GPS, activity monitoring, and global coverage make this one of the most trusted trackers for adventurous outdoor cats.
Key Features
✅ Accurate real-time tracking. Provides location updates every 2-3 seconds.
✅ Set up customizable geofencing (safe zones) and receive alerts when your cat leaves the safe zone. The Tractive Family Sharing feature allows everyone in the household to access the GPS tracker’s location on their devices.
✅ Comprehensive activity monitoring such as sleep, activeness, and calories burned. Alerts will be sent to your phone if unusual changes are detected.
✅ Access the location history to see where your cat usually spends their time to understand their roaming behavior.
✅ Worldwide coverage: Works in 175+ countries and has 1+ million users.
✅ Lightweight (0.8 oz/22 grams), waterproof and comfortable for cats to wear. Breakaway collar included.
✅ Rechargeable battery lasts up to 5+ days, depending on usage and coverage. Charging time is between 2-3 hours.
✅ iOS and Android compatible.
Considerations
❌ Requires a subscription plan ($9 p/month for annual subscription billed yearly).
❌ Needs good LTE network coverage.
Customer Reviews
“Tractive has been an absolutely invaluable tool for peace-of-mind for our indoor-outdoor kitty, and has been a constant source of entertainment to boot!”
“It was money well spent. The device is pretty lightweight, although still big enough that I take it off when he has to eat or sleep. It has shown me his daily routes and routines, and now I know he is pretty close by and doesn’t venture far (sometimes just snoozing under the porch). It also has the ability to sound a device alarm if it gets lost. You can even turn on a little light remotely from the app if your pet is outside in the dark.
2. Weenect GPS Tracker for Cats – Best for Recall Training
Usually priced around $49.99
This device supports 2G/4G/5G and uses a SIM card (included) that connects to mobile networks. It is recommended for cats weighing 6.5 lbs/3 kg and above.
Why it stands out:
Combines accurate tracking with sound-based training. Ideal for cats that roam far, but come home for dinner.
Key Features
✅ Real-time GPS tracking with updates every second using the Superlive mode.
✅ Works in over 100 countries.
✅ Recall training tool that you can ring at mealtime, assisting your cat to associate the sound with food and in turn, making it easier to call them home.
✅ Activity tracking and reports allow you to monitor any changes in their activity levels.
✅ Access the location history to learn their usual visiting areas and behavior patterns.
✅ Includes a LED flashlight for night visibility.
✅ Waterproof, durable and lightweight (27grams) design that fits on an elastic collar (included).
✅ Battery life ranges from 3 days with continuous tracking, up to 10 days in power-saving mode. 2 hours recharge time.
Considerations
❌ Requires a subscription plan (from $12.99/month).
❌ Needs strong network coverage for best performance as with any smart device.
Customer Reviews
“Comfortably fits our roaming kitty. It’s location service is very accurate and the battery lasts for the day with proper settings. The features are all fantastic and very useful. User friendly, will definitely be buying again for other pets.”
“I got 3 of these for my 3 cats, they roam on a big section of wooded property, and I can see where they are at all the time. I just go onto the weenect app and it shows their real time location. I can literally go outside and call their names and watch their icons running to me on the map. And if they don’t hear me or come to me, I can walk out to them bc I know exactly where they are. This is great. I had 4 cats and lost one, and I wish I had these before we lost him.”
3. TabCat V2 Cat and Kitten Tracker – Best subscription-free tracker for close-range cats
Usually priced around $159.99
This cat tracking device with no subscription uses RF frequency and has a directional handset that guides you to where your cat is with a click of a button. The lights change from red to green as you get closer to your cat’s location. The beeping sound can also be used to train your cat to return home when they hear it. This device is ideal for cat and kittens as it only weighs 0.2 oz/5.6 grams.
Why it stands out:
No subscription needed. Ideal for cats who stay close to home or like to hide indoors or in nearby bushes.
Key Features
✅ No ongoing subscription costs.
✅ Highly accurate RF frequency for real-time directional tracking within a 400-500 feet range. (higher for outdoors, less for indoors with walls, etc.) Locates within 1 inch.
✅ Lightweight (0.2 oz/5.6 grams) and comfortable for cats and kittens.
✅ Long battery life (3-12 months depending on usage). Less charging frequency required.
✅ Track up to 4 cats with one handset.
✅ 2 tags included for tracking 2 cats. A 4-tag option is available to purchase.
Considerations
❌ Limited Range – best for cats that stay close to home.
Customer Reviews
“I admit it — I did not have a lot of confidence this device would find my cat — but it does. Last night it found her in complete darkness four houses away with no trouble.”
“I was skeptical at first, but this tracker has helped me find my cat multiple times when she hides in bushes or under the deck. No subscription fees make it even better!”
4. LootPaw GPS Tracker for Cats + Vet Support – Best for GPS Tracking in the US & Virtual Vet Assistance
Usually priced around $104.99
This GPS tracker uses a SIM card and works with USA mobile networks to send data back to the app. (US-only usage) Ideal for cats 6 lbs/3 kg and above.
Why it stands out:
Real-time GPS, health monitoring with the added bonus of having 24/7 access to a virtual veterinarian.
Key Features
✅ Real-time tracking with updates every 5 minutes, with the ability to enter the Lost Pet Mode with updates every 15 seconds.
✅ Guest/family multi-user access to the app.
✅ Set up safe zones and receive alerts when your cat leaves the area.
✅ Set up geofencing (safe zones) and receive escape alerts when your cat leaves the safe zone. You can create multiple guest accounts in the app, so family members can also have access.
✅ Detailed location history and escape replays.
✅ Health monitoring such as sleep, activeness, and calories burned. Alerts will be sent to your phone if unusual changes are detected.
✅ 24/7 virtual veterinary care included in the membership fee.
✅ Lightweight (10.8 oz/306 grams) and waterproof.
✅ Rechargeable battery lasts around a day depending on usage.
Considerations
❌ Limited to US use only.
❌ Battery life is not as long as other GPS trackers – mixed reviews with some customers saying it lasts longer than expected, and others say they need to charge it once a day.
❌ Subscription plan is required (from $8 per month)
Customer Reviews:
“This gps tracker and collar are amazing! Love the look, my cat seems to find it comfortable as he has never bothered with it on. He is an adventure kitty but still under a year so I wanted the extra protection if he sneaks out the door without his harness and leash on. So far he hasn’t ‘escaped’ so we have only used it inside the house to see where he is. The collar and tracker are high quality materials, durable as well as beautiful!“
“This tracker is very well made. The collar that it comes with is high quality and better than any I’ve seen in the store. My cat didn’t even seem to notice the tracker on her.”
“I love this! I am able to track my main coon kitten. It gives me such piece of mind!”
Comparison Table
| Tracker | Technology | Range | Subscription | Coverage | Extra Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tractive Cat Mini | GPS + LTE | Unlimited | ✅ | Global – 165 countries | Virtual fence, activity monitor |
| TabCat V2 | RF | Up to 122m (400 ft) | ❌ | Global RF frequency | Sound/light proximity tracking |
| LootPaw | GPS + LTE | Unlimited | ✅ | USA only | Virtual fence, health monitor, 24/7 virtual vet |
| Weenect XS | GPS + LTE | Unlimited | ✅ | Global – 100 countries | Recall training, flashlight, territory analysis |
🧠 Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing a GPS Tracker for Cats:
1. Size & Weight:
- The cat tracker should be lightweight and compact to avoid discomfort. Look for models under 1 oz (28g) for better comfort.
2. Real-Time Tracking vs. Bluetooth/Radio Frequency:
- GPS trackers such as the Tractive CAT Mini and Weenect GPS Tracker provide real-time location updates, making them ideal for outdoor cats.
- RF (Radio Frequency) trackers, like TabCat, are better for close-range tracking, but don’t provide live location updates.
3. Subscription Fees:
- Many GPS trackers require a monthly subscription for live tracking. If you prefer a one-time purchase, opt for RF-based trackers like TabCat.
4. Battery Life:
- GPS trackers for cats last a few days with real-time tracking.
- RF trackers can last weeks to months on a single charge.
5. Waterproof & Durability
- Outdoor cats need a waterproof or water-resistant tracker.
- Choose durable designs that withstand scratching, running, and climbing.
6. Safe & Secure Collar Fit:
- The tracker should attach securely to a breakaway collar to prevent choking hazards.
7. Geofencing & Alerts:
- Some trackers let you set up a safe zone (geofence) and send alerts if your cat leaves the area.
8. Tracking Range & Connectivity:
- GPS trackers work anywhere with cellular coverage.
- RF trackers have a limited range (e.g., 400 feet), but are more precise in close areas.
9. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use:
- The best GPS tracker for indoor cats, an RF tracker might be enough.
- To track a cat that goes outside, a GPS tracker with real-time tracking is best.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a GPS collar made for dogs on a small cat?
Yes, but only if the GPS tracker weighs under 1 oz and is safe for smaller pets. Some dog GPS trackers can work for small cats, but always ensure the collar fits comfortably and securely. Choose lightweight options specifically marketed as GPS collars for small cats for the best fit and performance.
Are GPS collars safe for small cats to wear every day?
Yes, most modern GPS collars for small cats are designed to be lightweight, comfortable, and safe for everyday wear. For extra safety, attach the tracker to a breakaway collar to avoid choking hazards. Look for trackers made specifically for cats under 10 lbs.
Do GPS trackers for indoor cats work inside the house?
While GPS signals work best outdoors, many GPS trackers for indoor cats come with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi support for improved indoor accuracy. If your cat tends to hide inside, a tracker like TabCat may be better suited for pinpointing indoor locations.
Which cat tracking devices work without a subscription?
If you want a cat tracking device with no subscription, an option like the TabCat V2 is a great pick. There are no ongoing fees and it can still help locate your cat in a small area. However, they don’t offer live tracking like subscription-based GPS collars.
How can I track a cat that goes outside safely?
Use a GPS traker with real-time location updates, escape alerts, and geofencing. The Tractive Cat Mini and Weenect GPS Tracker are great for outdoor cats, letting you see your cat’s movement and get alerts if they leave your chosen safe zone.
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