The Best Cat GPS Trackers: Ranked and Rated

Losing a pet is one nightmare we’d all like to avoid. And while microchipping your cat is always a good idea, it doesn’t offer location tracking. 

Cat trackers are a great way to keep your precious pet safe. These devices use GPS, radiofrequency, or Bluetooth technology to track your cat’s whereabouts. Today’s models can even create “safe zones,” track your pet’s fitness, and work in tandem with intuitive mobile apps.

We think that a GPS tracker is a great way to keep track of escape artists and curious cats. We’ve ranked and reviewed the best so all you have to do is pick one to start keeping tabs on your kitty.

A-Z-Animals Top Picks for Cat GPS Trackers

#1 Best Overall: Jiobit Location Monitor, Gen 2

After poring over various models, the best cat tracking device we found was the Jiobit Location Monitor for Cats and Dogs. This modern-looking device offers real-time tracking, so you can see precisely where your furry pal is at all times.

Rather than sticking to just one type of tech, the Jiobit utilizes WIFI, cellular, GPS, and Bluetooth technology to keep tabs on your pet. Small and lightweight, it attaches unobtrusively to your cat’s collar with several different clip-on options. It’s also water-resistant, which you’ll appreciate if your cat chooses to bolt on a soggy, rainy day.

The device’s mobile app allows users to create geo-fenced boundaries to keep pets safe. You can also receive alerts and live location updates through the app. And for folks curious about how their cat spends their day, a timeline history lets you see what she’s been up to.

This tracking device has an unlimited range and a long-lasting (approximately seven days) battery life. It’s suitable for puppies and kittens as well as adult cats and dogs.

Some reviewers said that the device works well, but that the battery holds a charge for a day or so, not a week.

Pros and Cons of the Jiobit Location Monitor, Gen 2

Best Overall

Jiobit GPS Dog & Cat Location Monitor, Gen 2

• Modern-looking device
• Real-time tracking
• Uses WIFI, cellular, GPS, and Bluetooth
• Water-resistant and light-weight

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2. Best for Kittens: Cat Tailer Lightweight Bluetooth Tracker

For the tiny kitten who needs something ultra-light, we suggest the Cat Tailer Tracker. This tracker is so lightweight that your smaller cat shouldn’t even notice she’s wearing it. The device uses Bluetooth tech to track your cat up to 328 feet away. And unlike GPS trackers that need to be charged more often, this tracker offers a 6-month battery life. 

Another feature we love? You can enlist the help of friends and family to search for your precious pet. Just have them download the Cat Tailer app and pair it with your device. 

Keep in mind that while the Cat Tailer can be helpful in keeping your kitten safe, it doesn’t offer precise location mapping. Rather, it points you in the right direction and gives you an approximate distance. 

Some reviewers said that this cat tracker was inaccurate.

Pros and Cons of the Cat Tailer Lightweight Bluetooth Tracker

Best for Kittens

CAT TAILER Bluetooth Waterproof Cat Tracker

• Ultra-lightweight
• 6-month battery life
• Uses Bluetooth technology
• 1-year warranty

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3. Best for Multi-Pet Households: Girafus Pet Tracking Device

For folks with more than one cat, the Girafus Pet Tracking Device is a smart pick. You’ll get one base unit, and then you can choose up to four trackers to cover every pet in your household. And there’s no monthly fee.

The Girafus covers a range of up to 500 meters (1,600 feet), and the rechargeable battery will last up to 30 days. This device is lightweight, making it easy for cats and small dogs to wear comfortably. And the silicone sleeve makes it resistant to water. 

Some reviewers reported that the signal was unreliable. A few said that it stopped operating after six months or less.

Pros and Cons of the Girafus Pet Tracking Device

Best for Multi-Pet Households

Girafus Cat Tracker

• Up to four trackers linked to one base
• 500-meter/1600 ft. range
• Device is lightweight
• Rechargeable battery

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4. Best for Budget-Friendly Pick: Pawscout Smarter Bluetooth Tag

If you’re looking to save a few bucks, the Pawscout Bluetooth Tag offers many of the same features as pricer models — without the sticker shock.

This tracker is unique in that it incorporates a social element to keep pets safe. The app allows users to connect with other pet owners in the community. You can share photos of your favorite pet-friendly businesses. And you can also enlist community members to help find your cat if she goes missing. 

The app allows you to create a profile for your cat with her photo, medical info, and contact information. You can also set outdoor boundaries for your cat with this Bluetooth device. And bonus: you won’t be hit with any monthly fees!

Again, because this device uses Bluetooth technology, you won’t be able to get an exact GPS location. But it should be enough to point you in the right direction. 

Some reviewers reported that this cat tracker provides inaccurate and/or inconsistent results.

Pros and Cons of the Pawscout Smarter Bluetooth Tag

Best for Budget-Friendly Pick

Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Enabled Dog & Cat Tag

• Comes with a social app to connect to community
• Uses Bluetooth technology
• 300-foot range
• Very affordable option

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Choosing the Best Cat GPS Tracker: What to Look For

As you can see, cat trackers vary in design, capabilities, and price. So how do you know which features are important and which ones you can do without? Here are a few metrics to guide your shopping. 

Range

Most Bluetooth devices have a limited tracking range, which makes them suitable for cats who hide out in closets or pantries, but less suitable for cats with a tendency to wander far. 

Trackers that rely on radio frequency place second for range, while GPS devices can track the longest distances. It’s important to remember that these distances can be affected by obstacles such as cars, buildings, trees, and hills. 

Battery Life

Typically, Bluetooth trackers have a longer battery life (some up to 12 months!) than GPS trackers, which need to be charged every few days. 

Weight and Size

Perhaps it goes without saying, but for optimal comfort, your cat needs a lightweight device. GPS trackers, while the most accurate, tend to be on the heavier side. For smaller cats, a Bluetooth device may be better.

Extra Features

To find a tracker that works for you, consider how you plan to use the device, and go from there. For instance, would you like to create outdoor boundaries or connect with fellow pet owners? Perhaps you’re interested in learning more about how your cat spends her day. Or maybe you’d like a fitness tracker to help your chubby tabby get in shape. 

Price

You can find trackers priced as low as $15 and as high as several hundred dollars. Some also require monthly subscription fees, which should factor into your final decision.

The Different Types of Cat Trackers: Pros and Cons Compared

Pet trackers can be categorized by the type of location technology they use: GPS, Bluetooth, or Radio Frequency. Here’s how they stack up against each other:

• GPS Trackers: A Cat GPS tracker has the longest range capabilities and is usually pretty accurate. But they’re also the most expensive type of tracker and tend to be heavier. Batteries also need to be charged more frequently. 
• Bluetooth Trackers: Bluetooth trackers are lightweight, comfortable, and affordable, but their range is limited to a few hundred feet.  
• Radio Frequency Trackers: RF trackers work seamlessly indoors and outdoors, and they give users the best accuracy (within centimeters). On the downside, signals can be obstructed by trees, buildings, and other obstacles.

Verified Review: User Experience

So, what’s the takeaway? The general consensus seems to be that, regardless of the technology used, trackers offer pet owners some peace of mind. But they’re not perfect. A common complaint among users is spotty accuracy, especially with Bluetooth devices. It’s important to remember that obstructions like cars, trees, and buildings can affect a tracker’s performance as well.

Pet owners should also gauge their own needs before splurging on unnecessary frills. For indoor cats who rarely venture outside, some trackers simply aren’t worth the price. Especially if they require monthly subscription fees to work.

Up Next

• The 6 Best AirTag Collars for Tracking Your Pet — AirTag collars are another way to keep track of wayward cats.
• The 6 Best Cat Collar Bells to Keep Your Pet Safe — A collar with a bell is about as low-tech as it gets, but it may be all you need to find your kitty, especially inside the house.
• The Calming Collar for Cats: Reviewed and Ranked — If your cat is stressed, a calming cat collar, which works with pheromones or safe essential oils, may provide much-needed relief.