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CatStop™ Frequently Asked Questions

Can humans hear the CatStop?

The CatStop produces a frequency of 23KHz (+/-2KHz). The operating range of a correctly functioning device is outside of the normal hearing range of most humans. Humans may "sense" the CatStop but do not hear it anywhere near the volume at which it is broadcasted. The typical range of human hearing is 20 - 20,000 Hz (20KHz).

 

If you are clearly hearing your CatStop the particular unit could be faulty. Please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance should there be an issue with your CatStop.

 

Can I use the CatStop during winter?

Yes. You can use your CatStop during the winter months but your battery function will be reduced. Cold weather causes all batteries to work less efficiently. To be sure the CatStop continues to work during the winter keep the lens and speaker clear of snow and ice.

 

Can my cat here the CatStop from inside the house?

We've had no reports of this being a problem as the CatStop's sound does not penetrate walls. Although the sound will penetrate an open window or screen, this normally does not bother pets inside. Please remember, the CatStop is only for outdoor use and should not be used within the home. If you require a solution to keep pets away from certain areas indoors, we suggest using the StayAway.

 

Can other animals hear the CatStop?

The CatStop is an effective solution for deterring most types of cats. While other animals such as dogs may be able to hear the ultrasonic frequency, they do not hear at the same frequency as cats, therefore are not typically bothered. Birds are not affected at all. We do not have any research which supports its effective use on any other animal.

 

Can the CatStop be used with an AC Adapter?

Yes. We offer an adapter for those people who would like to plug in their CatStop. Contech recommends these only be used if they can be plugged into a wall plug protected by a GFI (Ground Fault Interrupt) outdoor certified power supply. The CatStop adaptor can be ordered online, or by calling our customer service number at 1-800-767-8658.

 

How can I tell if my CatStop is working?

If you suspect your CatStop is not working, please try this simple test :

 

  • Position the unit so that it is laying on its back on a flat surface.

 

  • Place a tiny pinch of salt on the metallic speaker disk.

 

  • Slowly pass your hand over the sensor to activate the unit.

 

If the salt is blasted off the speaker within a few seconds, your unit is emitting a frequency. If the salt doesn't move around at all or shows very little movement, your unit is not generating the correct power and it will need to be replaced. If your unit is still within the two-year warranty period, we will be happy to replace it for you.

 

If the unit passes the above test, but the cat problem isn't going away, it is possible the cats you are trying to deter are older, hard of hearing, or one of the exotic breeds that have a slightly different hearing range than the average cat. Please check the following to eliminate other potential causes.

 

  • Replace the battery with a brand new 9-volt alkaline battery fresh from the package. Always choose a good quality name brand battery and be sure they have not expired. Occasionally, customers tell us they tested their batteries before putting them into our products but battery testers can only tell you if there is a charge available and not whether or not those batteries are capable of handling the power demand of a working product.

 

  • Check to see if the red light comes on when you trigger the CatStop. It should come on for eight seconds and then goes off. It will take another ten seconds for it to reset. If the light does not come on, but the unit passes the salt test, the light may have burnt out. This will not affect the CatStop's ability to function.

 

If you've changed the batteries, the light is not working, or the CatStop does not appear to be affecting cats that are not hard of hearing or an exotic breed, please call our customer service number at 1-800-767-8658.

 

My CatStop stays on once it is triggered.

Your CatStop may stay on once it is triggered if:

 

The 9-volt battery is too weak to operate the unit properly.

 

Replace the battery with a brand new one fresh from the package. Always choose a good quality name brand Alkaline battery and be sure it has not expired. Occasionally, customers tell us they tested their batteries before putting them into our products, but battery testers can only tell you if there is a charge available and not whether or not those batteries are capable of handling the power demand from a working product.

 

If it still stays on once it's triggered, please call our customer service number at 1-800-767-8658.

 

What is the CatStop’s range?

The CatStop can sense movement within 20 feet (just over 6 meters) in an 80-degree angle outward from the unit. The CatStop stands 12 inches (30 centimeters) high.

 

Will the CatStop work on all cats?

The CatStop works on many cats but there will always be some exceptions to the rule. Cats with poor hearing or an unusual hearing range may not respond to the CatStop. This includes older cats and some exotic breeds.

 

You can purchase CatStop in Amazon.com

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