Yes, you can set the flap to work without the chip function. According to the instruction manual, there is a custom mode 1 that allows you to switch off the automatic SureFlap functions and only use the cat flap manually. In this mode, the flap does not open and close automatically based on the microchip, but works like a normal cat flap.

To do this, you must follow the instructions in the "Customised modes" section of the operating instructions and select customised mode 1. Removing the batteries is not necessary to activate this function.