If you’re not always around when your cat gets hungry, you might have thought about getting an automatic cat feeder. These feeders do the job of feeding your cat for you, even when you’re not there. Our favorite is the Whisker Feeder Robot because of its unique, user-friendly, high-tech features, making it super easy to use and program.
Cats naturally prefer to eat smaller meals throughout the day, about 10 to 20 times. I feed my cat five times daily, but I can’t always be there to do it myself. That’s where a feeder comes in handy.
The best cat feeders available today are automated, so you can program them to release a specified quantity of food at specific times of the day. They are available in versions that work with both wet and dry cat food, and some of them even have additional features like built-in cameras or WiFi to monitor your pet. These automated cat feeders are the greatest options for your pet, regardless of your preference for a sophisticated, smart feeder or a simpler, cost-effective one.
1. Whisker Feeder Robot
Maximum Capacity | 32 cups |
Dimensions | 15 x 12.5 x 13 inches |
Weight | 9 pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in and Battery backup |
Mobile App | Yes |
Our best pick for cat owners is still the Whisker Feeder-Robot, which has the most user-friendly software we’ve tested and a medley of pragmatic feeding choices. It is excellent in terms of features, efficacy, accuracy of the timer, and quantity control.
Though it has a sleek, user-friendly design, this is larger than other automated feeders, so be prepared for it to capture some room. Its footprint is 9 by 11.25 inches, nevertheless, and despite its modest size, it is sturdy enough to sustain knocks without toppling over.
It took us about fifteen minutes to set it up, which included downloading and synchronizing the app—which works with both Android and iOS devices—via a QR code on the Feeder.
You can simply program the best automatic cat feeder to allocate about a whole cup of grub up to 8 times per day, as well as exact meal timings and portion proportions. Though doing so lowers the maximum serving size to 1/2 cup, you can substitute the standard 1/4 cup dispenser with a 1/8 cup dispenser for more accurate portion management.
Additionally, the Feeder has a “gravity mode” that checks the food level every 6 hours and maintains the bowl full without going over.
About 32 cups of dry meals can fit in its reservoir, but anything larger than tiny, round kibble might need the accompanying Hopper Insert, which lowers the storage to 25 cups.
With the help of the app, you can create timetables, keep an eye on food levels, and even remotely administer snacks other than receiving mealtime reminders. With the ability to export information to a CSV file for further research, it monitors eating trends over time.
There are four color options available for the Whisker Feeder-Robot, which also provides free delivery throughout the United States, an 18-month guarantee, and a 90-day trial period.
- Helpful notifications and app
- Power cable is resistant to chewing
- 24-hour battery backup
- User-friendly interface
- Robust settings
- It’s not safe to put in the dishwasher.
- The serving cup is made of plastic rather than glass or metal
- Requires plenty of room
2. PETLIBRO AIR Automatic Pet Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 8 cups (2 liters) |
Dimensions | 10.4 x 7.1 x 12.2 inches |
Weight | 2.9 pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in and 3 D-cell batteries |
Mobile App | No |
For dependable, scheduled cat feeding, the Petlibro automatic cat feeder provides all you need. Additionally, the firmly sealed cover with a press and release mechanism keeps your cat’s meals fresh.
This Feeder comes in two colors—white or black—and 2 sizes—2 liters or 6 liters. It has two power sources: 3 D-cell batteries for backup in the event of a power outage while you’re gone or a USB-C socket with a five-foot connection. You can see the remaining battery life on the smartphone via an indicator.
We found that the two-liter version could, at best, contain little more than 7 cups of kibble. You can push the manual feed switch 5 times a row to get a bigger portion; it operates smoothly.
You can configure up to 6 timers to administer up to 16 pieces (2/3 of a cup) at a time. By default, the portion size is 1/24 cup. We advise monitoring the Feeder throughout the day to ensure it’s distributed as you wish. However, there isn’t an indication to certify that a timer has been set. With the exception of a plastic tray that contains the dirty stainless steel feeder and an easily washable stainless steel bowl, the Feeder comes almost completely constructed. Furthermore, a revolving barrier prevents vermin from entering the food bank via the feeding dock.
There isn’t a mobile app for the Feeder as it can’t connect to WiFi. But the controls are simple to use and tucked away behind a panel, so your pet can’t unintentionally alter the settings.
- You can program about 6 timers
- It includes backup batteries and a power wire
- There is a panel covering the control buttons, making it unattainable for your pet to inadvertently alter the settings
- The firmly sealed press-and-release cover conceals the flavors of your cat’s food while preserving its freshness
- Pests cannot enter the feeding tank because of the rotor’s design
- To ensure that timers are set up properly, there is no screen indication
- It lacks speech recording capabilities, a mobile app, and a WiFi connection
3. PETLIBRO Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 4 or 6 liters |
Dimensions | 7.5 x 7.5 x 12 inches |
Weight | 4.74 pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in and 3 D-cell batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
Before discovering the Whisker Feeder-Robot, we preferred this brand for its ease and dependability. It remains a reliable, cheap, automated feeder with multiple configurations.
The cat automatic feeder has an energy converter and 3 D-cell backup batteries. It has a simple interface and a front LCD screen for feeding regimens. You can even record a brief message to summon your kitty to the dish during mealtime. It also features a place for a desiccant sack to keep the kibble dry, although refilling it every 2 weeks may not be realistic unless you stay in a humid climate.
Customize up to 4 daily feedings with your chosen portion quantity. It follows the exact timetable every day, so you can’t change it. A twelve-hour clock with AM and PM settings may be difficult to adjust on the PETLIBRO.
We found the food reservoir’s two-handed opening awkward. This prevents your pet from eating the kibble, but refilling is difficult. Several feeder parts must be handwashed, making cleaning difficult.
The Feeder was the only one to tip over and spill food in our testing, a major negative. It should last long under normal circumstances, but if your dogs are boisterous or you’re buying one for a pup, you may want to skim elsewhere. Despite these shortcomings, the Feeder is a good bargain.
- It’s battery-backed
- Slot for meals desiccant pack
- The power adapter connection is hard to chew
- Very inexpensive and feature-rich
- The bowl is plastic
- Replacement desiccant refills may cost more
4. WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 29 cups (7 liters) |
Dimensions | 9.7 x 12.8 x 15.2 inches |
Weight | 5.6 pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in and 3 D-cell batteries |
Mobile App | No |
The Feeder carries seven pounds (30 mugs) of dry cat meals. Programed feedings provide constant portions. Sleek and compact, its huge capacity doesn’t take up much room.
Since most pieces are pre-assembled, an automatic feeder for cats is easy to assemble. We had trouble configuring the feeding schedule compared to other models.
Choose the feeding (like the first), pick how many parts to distribute (each portion is smaller than a 1/4 cup), and set the timing. Programming became easy after many thorough readings of the instruction booklet. A button press activates manual feeding, but it doesn’t connect to WiFi, so you can’t operate it with your phone.
It takes an outside button to raise the plastic cover over the keypad to stop your cat from meddling with the timetable. Your dogs can’t get the food inside the Feeder since it’s robust and impossible to tip over.
Easy-to-open lid, removable basket, and serving bowl for cleaning. Powering the feeder with a plug-in connection or 3 D-cell batteries during a power outage gives you peace of mind while away. You may also register a 10-second audio message for scheduled feedings.
- The stylish Feeder holds 7 pounds of kitten food (30 cups)
- Cleaning the interior of the basket and serving basin is simple
- Record a voice message for scheduled feedings
- Pets cannot reach the device’s programming buttons
- Larger kibble, like dog food, worked less smoothly
- Feeder programming is difficult at first, but it becomes easier
5. Cat Mate C200 2 Meal Automatic Pet Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 3 cups (1.5 per bowl) |
Dimensions | 10.1 x 8.3 x 3 inches |
Weight | 1.9 pounds |
Food Type | Dry or wet |
Power Source | One AA battery |
Mobile App | – |
The Automatic Cat Feeder holds 11/2 cups of wet or dry cat food in two compartments. It uses one double-A battery, so power shortages and locating an outlet aren’t an issue. Lightweight and dependable, it maintains your cat’s food timetable while traveling.
Space for ice packs under the food receptacles is useful if you want to put watery or perishable food in the Feeder. The design is simple, and most of the Feeder is ready to use out of the box.
The UI is basic but can be better. There’s a knob to postpone feeder opening for 48 hours. It only supports hourly intervals, not minute-by-minute ones.
This automatic cat feeder does not include WiFi for mobile monitoring and control like more modern ones. If you want a simple, dependable feeder that matches your budget and lifestyle, this one may be suitable for you and your cat.
- Works with wet and dry cat food
- Store perishables using ice bags
- Light, user-friendly
- Battery-powered, so no outlet is needed
- The timing is less accurate than other automated feeders we reviewed
6. PETLIBRO Granary Two Cat Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 5 liters |
Dimensions | 13.6 x 7.5 x 7.5 inches |
Weight | 4.4 pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in and 3 D-cell batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
Anyone who wants a feeder with cat-specific bowls should go for this automatic cat feeder. Both bowls are stainless steel, better than plastic.
A reviewer likened the product to an air filter due to its spherical silo form. Its locking top keeps cats out, but one tester found it too slick to handle. We set up the Granary easily because of its straightforward programming and clear digital display. The largest serving size of dry food is nearly four cups, and you may plan up to 10 feeds a day with tablespoon-sized portions.
Also included are a battery backup, a manual feeding switch, and the capacity to record a brief message for your cats. Like previous PETLIBRO feeders, the kibble reservoir may include a desiccant bag to prevent food from rotting in excessive humidity.
Adjusting the feed splitter to deliver varied amounts of sizes to separate bowls was the only drawback our testers found. In practice, exact changes were difficult. The Feeder was a tester’s favorite, but this was a little concerning.
- Bowls of stainless steel
- Easily programmable
- Battery backup
- Exact portion controls
- Accurate adjustment challenging
7. Sure Petcare SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 13.5 ounces |
Dimensions | 7.875 x 9 x 12.625 inches |
Weight | 5 pounds |
Food Type | Dry or wet |
Power Source | C-cell batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
Unlike other automatic cat feeders, the feeder has a unique function. Rather than regulating your cat’s feeding schedule, it controls their food.
The SureFeed controls access to individual cats by microchip or RFID tag instead of a timer. This is ideal for homes with many cats on varied diets. For instance, SureFeed stops other cats and canines from eating a cat’s specific meal. Although 32 cats may be too much for most families, it can manage them.
The SureFeed’s innovative sliding door opens gently as your kitty approaches. Our testers set it up and added the RFID tag in five minutes.
A separate plastic dish lets you feed the SureFeed wet or dry food. The split bowl lets you serve two pieces at once. The enclosed design keeps flies out and smells out, keeping food fresh.
However, we noticed certain drawbacks. The dish is too tiny to store many days’ worth of meals. It’s more for active cat diet management. It uses four C-cell batteries instead of plugging in, but they last six months and flash when they need changing. Having an outlet would have been wonderful.
We think these concerns were minor compared to the feeder’s strengths. Despite its limitations, it works well.
- Programming microchips is easy
- Includes RFID tag
- Has divided bowl
- Training helps your cat adjust
- A great design like a space station
- The bowl is plastic
- Batteries power it solely
8. Cat Mate 5 Meal Dog & Cat Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 1.7 liters |
Dimensions | 12.2 x 11.89 x 3.7 inches | |
Weight | 14.8 ounces |
Food Type | Dry or wet |
Power Source | 3 x AA batteries |
Mobile App | No |
The automatic cat feeder resembles our Portable selection, the PetSafe feeder. Avoiding chutes, it dispenses food from a spinning, multiple-compartment tray. It’s perfect for wet or semi-wet food, as you can fill each compartment and timetable when it’s “disclosed” to your cat(s). Canned and wet cat food deteriorates quicker than dry food and must be chilled after opening, making it difficult to prepare. The feeder overcomes this by placing 2 ice packs under the revolving tray.
This function makes pre-loading wet meals that need refrigeration easier, but it’s not ideal for serving wet meals while gone. The 2 ice packs keep the meal cold overnight but not for more than 24 hours.
The Cat Mate C500 is beneficial for cat owners who are weary of their cats waking up and want their cats to sit at the Feeder for their lunchtime. It may help you schedule a meal if you’re working late.
The C500 can plan five 1.25-cup mealtimes. Programming is precise. However, one tester notified differentiating a.m. and p.m. to prevent skipping meals. The dishwasher-safe top lid and food tray make cleaning the Cat Mate C500 simple.
- Ice packs prolong wet food freshness
- Great for dry and wet food
- Parts are dishwasher-safe
- Powered by batteries, no plug
9. PetSafe Six Meal Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 6 cups |
Dimensions | 15.7 x 9.6 x 6.4 inches |
Weight | 2.85 pounds |
Food Type | Dry or Semi-wet |
Power Source | 4 D-cell alkaline batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
The PetSafe automatic cat feeder runs on 4 D-cell batteries. Even while we prefer automated cat feeders with both a wall outlet connection and battery backup (in case of a power interruption while you’re gone), this one is more flexible. The PetSafe Feeder can be placed anywhere, not only at a wall outlet. You’re unlikely to lose power while traveling if you install fresh batteries before leaving.
Because of its simple programming, convenient characteristics, and tactile controllers, an automatic cat feeder is a dependable option. From the LCD screen, you can schedule 15-minute feedings at any moment. Setting up six daily feedings is easy. The feeder carousel will also distribute one of its 6 feeds into the cup daily at one feeding time. There’s also a different control for administering a meal immediately. As you load the 6 compartments separately, you can manage servings, with each meal holding one cup.
These basic choices simplify programming. However, the feeder may not fit certain feeding programs. PetSafe distributes meals at the exact time every day, so you can’t feed cats at different times.
If you want a simple feeder, the product is easy to operate. The dishwasher-safe BPA-free cup and food carousel make cleaning simple.
- Programming is simple
- Secure lid
- Key parts are safe for dishwasher
- Battery life for 9-months
- Bowl is plastic
- Programs are limited
10. Ymiko Automatic Cat Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 12.7 cups |
Dimensions | 12.56 x 7.83 x 7.83 inches |
Weight | 2.75 pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in and 3 x alkaline D batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
This automatic cat feeder is an excellent option for cats or small dogs since it can dispense up to four meals a day and provide up to nine servings every meal—all while maintaining accuracy, we may add. We have observed, nevertheless, that the initial portion will be omitted if there is already kibble in the dispenser tray.
This Feeder is very simple to set up and operate. It also has the option to record a voice message that will play when the food is distributed. Not to mention, it looks good. However, keep in mind that cleaning is a little difficult since the base and tank aren’t separate. Pets who have a tendency to claw or nuzzle their feeders should take this model into consideration since it was also among the least reliable solutions we examined.
- The food dispenser motor is silent
- It correctly administers the pre-programmed meals at the right moment
- The one-piece base and food tank make cleaning harder
- The machine is weak and easily falls over
11. PetSafe Simply Feed Automatic Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 24 cups |
Dimensions | 18.54 x 8.7 x 12.36 inches |
Weight | 4.61 Pounds |
Food Type | Dry or semi-dry |
Power Source | Plug-in or 4 D-cell batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
The automatic cat feeder can plan up to 12 meals each day, from one-eighth of a cup to four cups, for single-cat and multi-cat homes. Its 24-cup hopper can feed your kitties for a long time before restocking.
Cat owners will love the slow-feed option. This option slowly distributes food over 15 minutes to prevent your cat from vomiting. We also have a quick feed option in case your cat wants a snack between meals.
The Feeder has a bowl and stand that firmly connects. You can also use your cat’s favorite dish. A pet-proof dispenser keeps inquisitive paws out and food fresh, ensuring your cat’s meals are safe. Most pieces are dishwasher-safe and made of BPA-free plastic and stainless steel, making cleaning easy. We think most cat owners like it due to these advantages.
- You can plan 12 meals daily
- Adjustable portion sizes fit your cat
- Allows gradual feeding to avoid binge eating
- Battery packs are available separately
- Not included power adapter
12. PetSafe 5-Meal Automatic Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 5 cups |
Dimensions | 12.63 x 4.44 x 16 inches |
Weight | 3.96 Pounds |
Food Type | Dry or semi-dry |
Power Source | 4 D-cell batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
This automatic cat feeder is ideal for short excursions. Each chamber of the PetSafe 5-Meal Automatic Feeder holds one cup of food. It can handle wet and dry feeds of varied sizes without clogging like hopper-style feeders due to its covered, rotating construction. To rotate the Feeder daily, you may simply schedule it.
BPA-free, dishwasher-safe food trays make cleanup easy. One chamber will be offered to your cat immediately. The rotating mechanism lets you see how much your cat ate while you were away.
This Feeder is small and lightweight, making it ideal for traveling with your cat while following their feeding schedule. Programming this Feeder is easy, even for non-techies.
- Food stays fresh in sealed compartments
- It cleans easily in the dishwasher
- Budget-friendly, saving money
- The dispenser runs well without jamming
- You must buy batteries separately
- Unsuitable for moist food
- Constant access to one compartment limits control
- Only a certain amount of food fits
13. Cat Mate C3000 Automatic Dry Food 3-Meal Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 6.5 pounds |
Dimensions | 8.3 x 8.3 x 14.5 inches |
Weight | 1.96 Pounds |
Food Type | Dry or semi-dry |
Power Source | 4 D-cell batteries |
Mobile App | No |
We found the Cat Mate C3000 automatic cat feeder simple to set up, configure, and operate. For those long weekends away without your pet, the top hopper can hold a week’s worth of food.
Cleaning is easy since everything except the electronics base is dishwasher safe. We found that the feeding units may be inaccurate depending on your pet’s kibble size. The Feeder says that three feeding units equal a quarter cup of food; however, our testing showed that it dispensed more. Make sure to double-check this disparity if your pet is on our weight control program.
Lastly, the food hopper cover isn’t as secure as other mechanical pet feeders, so dog owners may want to look elsewhere.
- Simple programming
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Hopper holds plenty of food
- Optional mounting for stability
- No batteries included
- Measurements may be inaccurate
14. Amazon Basics Automatic Gravity Feeder Set
Maximum Capacity | 6 pounds or 1 gallon of water |
Dimensions | 12.5 x 7 x 12 inches (feeder); 12.4 x 7 x 12 inches (waterer) |
Weight | 1.82 Pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Gravity |
Mobile App | No |
Amazon Basics’ gravity automatic cat feeder with food and water dispensers is affordable. These use gravity, so you can’t adjust timetables or portion quantities like computerized feeders. Fortunately, they won’t break or lose power while you’re gone.
Each dispenser holds six pounds of dry food or a gallon of water. Cornell Feline Health Center scientists say that’s 16 days of water for an ordinary cat.
However, these feeders aren’t dishwasher-safe, so handwash them. Dogs may be able to get at the food since the containers aren’t dog-proof. In comparison to the worth, they are trivial issues.
- Dispenses both food and drink
- High Capacity
- No battery concerns
- Transparent containers
- Need manual cleaning
- Unsuitable for portion control
15. Iseebiz Automatic Cat Feeder
Maximum Capacity | 12.65 cups |
Dimensions | 12.6 x 9.45 x 8.27 inches |
Weight | 3.31 Pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in or batteries |
Mobile App | No |
For small pets like cats, the robot-shaped Iseebiz automatic cat feeder is ideal. It ensures ideal portion management by storing enough food for up to 15 days. It has the same characteristics as feeders that cost more money yet are more reasonably priced. It’s effective and safe, with an IR detector to avoid clogging and a screw-lock mechanism to keep food fresh and dogs out. Additionally, even when you’re not home, you can record a 10-second message to alert your pet to the lunchtime feeder.
- Record your voice to summon your pet to meals
- Set feeding times
- It’s strong and untippable
- Adjust portion amounts for your pet
- Small 3-liter capacity
- Hard to clean
16. PetSafe Smart Feed
Maximum Capacity | 12.65 cups |
Dimensions | 13.27 x 10.28 x 15.8 inches |
Weight | 6.3 Pounds |
Food Type | Dry |
Power Source | Plug-in or batteries |
Mobile App | Yes |
PetSafe dominates our list, and their automated cat feeding is our top option. This is a high-tech feeder worth investing in. Smart features may not suit everyone.
Fortunately, the PetSafe app can control this 6-liter Feeder. You may modify portion quantities, plan meals, and manage the Feeder with Alexa. Your pet may consume up to 12 meals a day, each with exact portion amounts, so you determine when and how much. Additionally, cats that eat fast may slow-feed.
Some drawbacks exist. App control may be limited, particularly if it malfunctions. The Feeder has no controls, so if the app fails, it toast. It is a multipurpose automated cat feeder despite this shortcoming.
Pros
- Smart features simplify feeding
- Dishwasher-safe
- Set up to 12 daily meals for cats
- Convenient voice control
Cons
- Limited to app control only
- Higher cost
What to Look For In An Automatic Cat Feeder
To find the best automatic cat feeder, check these qualities.
1. Type of Food
Choose a dry or wet automatic cat feeder, depending on what your cat eats. Some can handle both, but make sure they fit the kibble to avoid clogs. Wet food feeders with dependable cooling packs will keep your cat’s food fresh, particularly if they’ll be alone for some time.
2. Size
Consider the Feeder’s food capacity. Dry food models feature multi-day hoppers of various sizes. Refills are more frequent with smaller hoppers. Choose a wet food feeder with divisions for each meal depending on how long your cat will be alone.
3. Features
Automatic feeders have several functions. Some schedule meals, while others feature cameras and reward dispensers. Remember that additional features cost more, so choose the ones you’ll utilize.
4. Basic Usage
Choose an easy feeder for you and your cat. Check its programming, filling ease, and dishwasher-safe components. Manual or hands-off cleaning is available.
How Do Automatic Cat Feeders Work?
There are many different styles of automatic cat feeders. Some have a big hopper for dry kibble, while others have divided dishes for wet food. Using the unit’s digital control panel or a WiFi-enabled app, you may program a feeding schedule. You can choose the time of day and amount of food to serve for meals using the scheduling tool. You can schedule six to ten meals a day with most feeders.
After you’ve set up the Feeder, it will automatically fill the bowl to the proper level at the prescribed intervals. You don’t have to be there to feed your pet, which is great if you work long hours away from home or if they need to eat late at night.
Can Multiple Cats Share The Same Automatic Cat Feeder?
Many automated cat feeders come with multiple bowls and a splitter in case you have many cats that share the same food. Your dogs are able to eat independently as they pour food into individual bowls.
However, a standard automatic feeder may not be appropriate if your dogs have diverse diets. According to experts, “a timed feeder may allow the other pets eat food they shouldn’t if you have several pets and one needs prescriptive food.” “Timed feeders with microchips work well for that.”
It is possible to configure these feeders to identify the unique microchip of every cat, ensuring that the Feeder only opens for the appropriate cat. Dog owners who have food-loving dogs will also find this useful, but keep in mind that this system requires a microchip in your cat in order to function.
How To Clean An Automatic Cat Feeder?
Cleaning your automated cat feeder on a regular basis is crucial to avoid bacterial growth and unpleasant odors, just as you would with a traditional cat dish. Wash the food dish itself with warm, soapy water, ideally once a day. Certain feeders include dishwasher-safe bowls, which makes cleanup even simpler.
Periodically, you should also clean the hopper of the Feeder. Cleaning it after each filling is a good idea. If the hopper is dishwasher safe, run it through a cycle of warm, soapy water in the dishwasher. Before assembling the hopper once again and adding new cat food, make sure it is totally dry.
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