Bluetooth cat trackers are a popular choice for pet parents looking to monitor their cat’s movements. They’re small, affordable and easy to put on a collar. But like all technology, Bluetooth trackers have their drawbacks. In this article, we’ll explore the top three limitations of Bluetooth cat trackers and why a GPS cat tracker like Tractive is the better choice for your cat’s safety and your peace of mind.

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What is a Bluetooth cat tracker?

A Bluetooth cat tracker is a small, lightweight device that attaches to your cat’s collar and allows you to track its movements within a limited range using Bluetooth technology. Unlike GPS trackers, which use satellite signals to provide real-time tracking over vast distances, Bluetooth trackers are designed to work within a short-range connection—usually up to around 300 feet (90 meters), depending on the model.

3 Limitations of Bluetooth cat trackers

1. Limited Range

The most significant limitation of Bluetooth trackers is their limited range. Bluetooth technology typically works only within a short distance—usually around 300 feet or up to 100 meters. This means if your cat leaves the designated area, you won’t be able to track them anymore until they come back into range. This can be really problematic if your cat wanders farther than expected.

GPS vs Bluetooth cat tracker range illustrated infographic from tractive

2. No Live Tracking

Unlike GPS trackers, Bluetooth trackers don’t offer real-time location updates. You can only see your cat’s last known location when it was within range. This can be frustrating if your cat goes missing or if you’re trying to track their movements over time. For those who want to follow their cat’s exact location in real-time, this limitation can be a deal-breaker.

3. No Extra Features

Bluetooth cat trackers are very limited in terms of features. They may offer some basic form of location tracking, but they don’t provide more advanced features such activity and sleep tracking, health alerts, location history or virtual fences—features that a GPS cat tracker like Tractive offers. With Bluetooth trackers, you’re limited to tracking location only within range, with no way to monitor your cat’s overall well-being.

cat laying in grass outside wearing a Tractive GPS cat tracker

A GPS Cat Tracker = Peace of Mind

While Bluetooth trackers are a budget-friendly option for certain situations, a GPS cat tracker like Tractive offers the ultimate peace of mind by combining the benefits of both Bluetooth and GPS technologies. Just check out these features that come standard on the Tractive GPS Cat Tracker:

  • Live Tracking
  • Unlimited Range
  • Virtual Fences & Escape Alerts
  • Location History
  • Cat Territory
  • Health Alerts
  • Activity & Sleep Monitoring

Bluetooth cat trackers are a great budget-friendly option for indoor and securely fenced outdoor cats, but they come with several limitations that make them less effective for tracking cats over longer distances or in real-time. For pet parents who need a more reliable and feature-rich solution, a GPS cat tracker like Tractive offers the perfect combination of Bluetooth and GPS technology, ensuring you can track your cat no matter where they go.

Track your cat wherever they go

See where they are in real-time, no matter how far they roam. Discover their territory. Get alerted if they go too far. Track activity, sleep, and receive health alerts if your cat’s activity changes. Keep your feline friend healthy and safe.

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