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Regulating how much food your cat eats is an important way to help your pet maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Cat owners are often faced with the problem of feeding them the right amount of food at the right time. And we all know cats can be fussy with their food at times.
This is where the automatic cat feeder comes in. These feeders address both of these common problems. By using an automatic feeder, you can ensure that your cat doesn’t have access to too much food, which might cause them to overeat.
In this post, we will spend time looking at the best automatic cat feeders on the market. By the end, we hope you have a better understanding of these feeders and can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Quick Reference
Best Overall Automatic Cat Feeder: WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser
Best Feeder for Multi-Cat Homes: SureFlap -Sure Petcare – SureFeed – Microchip Pet Feeder
Best Feeder for Keeping Food Fresh: Iseebiz Automatic Cat Feeder 3L Pet Food Dispenser
Best Automatic Feeder for Wet Food: Cat Mate C500 Automatic Feeder With Digital Timer
FAQs:
Before we take a deep dive into automatic cat feeders, let’s look at some of the most common questions about these feeders.
What is an Automatic Cat Feeder?
As the name implies, an Automatic Cat Feeder regulates and dispenses food automatically. Some automatic feeders have timers so you can preset a time to feed your cat.
Automatic cat feeders are especially useful if you work long hours since they give you the ability to regulate the amount of food your cat eats. Ultimately, this can help prevent feline obesity.
Cats always prefer fresh food and an automatic feeder will either refill the bowl when empty or dispense food at a preset time. This is especially useful if your cat is on a diet as requested by your vet.
What are the Benefits of an Automatic Cat Feeder?
There are many benefits to using an automatic cat feeder.
- Prevents overeating– Overeating is a major concern for cats, especially indoor-only cats. Cats, just like people, get bored. If they are stuck inside all day with nothing to do, they might decide to pass the time by eating food in their bowl. If you leave a large bowl of food out, they can easily overeat. This can lead to weight gain and health concerns, like feline obesity.
- Gives your cat access to fresh food- We know that cats can be picky eaters at times. They really enjoy eating fresh food, and an automatic cat feeder can provide this. Some automatic feeders can also serve wet food.
- Less stress for the owner- If you work long hours or are often away from home, it can be difficult to stick to a regular feeding schedule for your cat. You might feel stressed or guilty about getting home in time to feed your pet. Although an automatic feeder doesn’t replace interaction, it is a way to ensure your cat will be fed even if you are not home.
Do You Need an Automatic Cat Feeder?
There’s no definitive answer as to whether or not you need an automatic feeder, you can manage perfectly fine with a normal food bowl if your schedule allows you to feed your cat at the required times.
However, an automatic can feeder can be a very useful tool for cats on a diet or if you work long hours. Personally, I have one for my Persian cat and think it’s a fantastic tool.
Are Automatic Cat Feeders Safe?
Overall, automatic cat feeders are safe. You don’t need to worry about your cat hurting themself by using the feeder.
The only concern about using an automatic cat feeder is paying attention to how much food the feeder dispenses. Some feeders are set to refill the bowl any time it gets low. This would end up defeating the purpose of using the feeder to prevent overeating and obesity. Make sure you have the right settings on your feeder so your cat isn’t accidentally overfed.
Another concern with automatic feeders is the fact it can be more challenging for you to track if your cat isn’t eating. The bowls will likely always look full since the feeders are set to refill the bowls when they are low. If your cat is sick and isn’t eating, you might not be able to catch it right away.
When using an automatic feeder, just remember to still pay attention to how much your cat is eating so they don’t overeat and so you will know if they are getting sick.
What to Consider Before Purchasing an Automatic Cat Feeder
Before deciding to use an automatic cat feeder, there are a few things you should consider.
- Your cat’s health- It is important to think about your cat’s health before starting to use an automatic feeder. Do they tend to overeat already? If not, you might not have to worry about using an automatic feeder. Does your cat need medicine? If so, you won’t be able to administer this with an automatic feeder.
- Work hours- Think about your work hours and out-of-home obligations. Are you usually home before your cat’s dinner time? Or are you still at the office? If you are home, you probably don’t need to worry about using an automatic feeder. But, if you are often not home, this is a nice way to make sure your cat gets dinner on time.
- Interaction with your pet- Of course, we don’t have pets to ignore them. Feeding time is a nice chance to interact with your cat. It reinforces positive behaviors. If you rely on an automatic feeder, it takes you out of the food equation and your cat might start to notice. Consider only using an automatic feeder when you have to and feeding your cat yourself when you are home in time.
An automatic feeder is a perfect option for pet owners who have a demanding schedule and/or a cat who overeats. There are many reasons to consider using an automatic cat feeder, so think these over before deciding which feeder is right for you.
What Should I Look For in an Automatic Cat Feeder?
There are quite a few things to consider when trying to find the best automatic cat feeder.
If you have a cat that is on a diet or you work long hours then a timed automatic feeder will be your best bet. However, if your cat is just a fussy eater then any automatic feeder in this post would work for your pet.
The capacity of the feeder is also important. If you have a multi-cat household you will need a feeder with a larger amount of storage than if you only have one cat.
Some feeders allow you to record a small message and this will then be played when the meal is served, this helps with cats that associate a phrase or message with eating. This could be “yummy yummy” or “food time” or whatever you’ve said in the past before serving a meal.
Price and quality are obviously factors when looking for the best automatic cat feeder. Consider your budget before deciding which automatic feeder to select.
How Can You Help Your Cat Enjoy the Automatic Feeder?
Cats can be resistant to change. If your cat is used to eating food at any time they want, an automatic feeder will be an adjustment for them. Give them time and adjust the amount of food gradually so they get used to the new schedule.
Also, if your cat is used to you feeding them, they might be nervous about the automatic feeder. In this case, consider purchasing a feeder that allows you to record a message. You can record yourself saying something calming like, “food time” or any other phrase your cat is used to you saying when you feed them.
Overall, most cats don’t have any trouble adjusting to an automatic feeder. Just be patient and use positive reinforcement to help your cat warm up to the new feeder.
The Top 7 Automatic Cat Feeders Reviewed
Now that you know more about automatic cat feeders, let’s look at the best options on the market. We will discuss 7 of the best feeders on the market. We have ranked these according to the best ones in a variety of categories in addition to the best overall.
Each of the feeders mentioned on our list is a safe and high-quality option for your cat. We hope these reviews help as you decide which feeder is right for your pet.
Best Overall Automatic Cat Feeder: WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser
The WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder features a programmable timer so you can schedule up to four feedings a day. This feeder also allows you to record a message that will play at feeding times. With this feeder, you don’t have to worry about your cat overeating. Instead of dispensing the same amount of food each time, you can program the specific portion to be dispensed.
This feeder only distributes dry food, but the tray is hygienic and easy to clean. You can wash the tray in the dishwasher, so you don’t have to waste paper plates for food. This feeder also includes a large storage compartment. It can hold up to 20 cups of food and is very easy to clean. This feeder also features Infrared Detection Tech which helps prevent spills and keeps the food from getting stuck in the dispenser.
We selected the WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder as our best overall automatic feeder. It comes at a higher price point than some other feeders on the market. But, this feeder offers many features, such as the audio recorder and portion control, that makes it worth the price.
PROS:
- Programmable timer that can dispense up to four feedings each day
- You can set specific portions to be dispensed
- You can record an audio message to be played when food is dispensed
CONS:
- High price point
- This feeder only dispenses dry food, not wet food
- Some users noted that the lid can easily come off, which might food to go stale
Best Feeder for Multi-Cat Homes: SureFlap -Sure Petcare – SureFeed – Microchip Pet Feeder
The SureFlap -Sure Petcare – SureFeed – Microchip Pet Feeder is a unique feeder that is perfect for multi-cat homes. This feeder has a secure flap that only opens when a specific microchip is detected. This can help prevent one cat from eating another cat’s food. A collar tag is included with this feeder, which you can attach to the collar of the cat you want to be able to use the feeder.
This feeder is a great option if one of your cats has to follow a specific diet. This feeder allows them access to their food and reduces stress at mealtime. This unit is easy to clean. Just simply hand wash the bowl and wipe down the feeder’s exterior. This feeder is also customizable and there are many colors you can choose from if you want something other than the white version.
PROS:
- This feeder only opens when a microchip is detected, so it works well for multi-cat households
- This can prevent stress at mealtimes
- Available in a variety of colors
CONS:
- One of the most expensive options on the market
- The bowl is hand-wash only
- Some curious cats might try to knock over or get into the feeder
Best Feeder for Keeping Food Fresh: Iseebiz Automatic Cat Feeder 3L Pet Food Dispenser
The Iseebiz Automatic Cat Feeder features a programmable feeder that can automatically dispense food up to four times a day. The main unique feature of this feeder is its leak-proof storage space, which helps keep food fresh. This feeder offers an infrared sensor and it automatically stops dispensing food if the bowl is full. This sensor also helps prevent the machine from becoming clogged.
This feeder features a recorder which allows you to record a 10-second message for your pet. This will be played at mealtimes. To power the feeder, you can either use the provided power adaptor or purchase batteries. This is one of the best mid-range options on the market.
PROS:
- Food can be dispensed up to four times a day
- The leak-proof storage keeps food fresh
- You can record a message for your pet
CONS:
- This feeder is not dishwasher-safe
- Some users said the feeder didn’t work as well with batteries as it does with the adaptor
- Some cats might be scared of the feeder at first
Best Feeder for Portion Control: BELOPEZZ 6L Smart Pet Automatic Feeder
The BELOPEZZ 6L Smart Pet Automatic Feeder includes an automated detection feature. This helps prevent the food bowl from being overfilled and can help maintain portion control. This feeder can store over 6 L of dry food. It also works with both small and large pieces of dry food, so it can be used for dogs or larger cats if needed.
This feeder also features a voice recorder so your pet can hear you speak during meal times. You can program the feeder to release food up to four times a day. This feeder is made with environmentally-friendly materials. The pieces are easy to disassemble and clean as needed. The feeder can run on batteries or be plugged into an outlet.
PROS:
- Automated detection feature helps control portions
- Can hold up to 6 L of dry food
- Made with environmentally friendly materials
CONS:
- The lid isn’t airtight which can cause the food to get stale
- Can be challenging to program
- Some users said it was difficult to assemble
Best Automatic Feeder for Scheduling Meals: PetSafe 5 Meal Pet Feeder
Unlike most other feeders on the market, The PetSafe 5 Meal Pet Feeder allows you to schedule up to five automatic feedings during the day. These feedings can be scheduled in 1-hour increments. Each bowl in the feeder can hold up to 1-cup of dry food. The tray is easy to clean and can be put in the dishwasher.
This feeder runs on 4-D cell batteries (which are not included). This means you don’t have to worry about a cord running from the feeder to the wall. Feedings can be scheduled at any time of the day, meaning this is also a great option for cats who like to eat in the morning before you wake up.
PROS:
- Can provide up to 5-feedings each day
- Feedings can be scheduled on 1-hour increments
- This feeder runs on batteries
CONS:
- Batteries are not included
- Some cats are scared of the feeder
- Some users said the bowls are too deep
Best Gravity Feeder: Ancaixin Automatic Cat Feeder and Water Dispenser
The Ancaixin Automatic Cat Feeder and Water Dispenser is a traditional gravity automatic feeder. If you are not worried about your cat overeating, this is a great option. This is an affordable feeder and the price includes a dry food feeder, water dispenser, and a brush. This feeder simply works by gravity. Once there is room in the bowl, more food moves out of the feeder.
This feeder is easy to clean and assemble. It is lightweight and easy to move if needed. The feeder is made with BPA-free materials so you don’t have to worry about affecting your cat’s health. The only downside to this feeder is the automatic food flow. If your cat overeats, this would not be the best option. However, if you are looking for a basic, no-frills automatic feeder this is a great and affordable option. Your cat will have access to plenty of fresh food and water throughout the day.
PROS:
- Affordable automatic feeder
- Includes a water dispenser in addition to the food dispenser
- Easy to clean
CONS:
- Food constantly flows, which can lead to overeating
- You can’t record an audio message
- You can’t set a timer
Best Automatic Feeder for Wet Food: Cat Mate C500 Automatic Feeder With Digital Timer
There are many great options for automatic feeders that provide dry food. However, most feeders are not suitable for wet food. The Cat Mate C500 Automatic Feeder With Digital Timer is a great option for wet food. This feeder has five compartments that each hold 11.5 ounces of wet food. There are ice packs in the feeder that help keep the food fresh throughout the day.
This feeder is easy to clean and the bowls are dishwasher safe. It is a battery operated feeder, so you don’t have to deal with a cord. You can use the built-in digital timer to schedule the feedings.
PROS:
- This feeder works for both wet and dry food
- Ice packs are built-in to keep food fresh
- Easy to clean
CONS:
- Some cats can move the feeder
- Tray can get stuck between feedings
- Some cats are scared of the feeder
Best Automatic Cat Feeder Round-Up
Best Overall Automatic Cat Feeder: WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser
- Programmable timer that can dispense up to four feedings each day
- You can set specific portions to be dispensed
- You can record an audio message to be played when food is dispensed
- $$$
Best Feeder for Multi-Cat Homes: SureFlap -Sure Petcare – SureFeed – Microchip Pet Feeder
- This feeder only opens when a microchip is detected, so it works well for multi-cat households
- This can prevent stress at mealtimes
- Available in a variety of colors
- $$$$
Best Feeder for Keeping Food Fresh: Iseebiz Automatic Cat Feeder 3L Pet Food Dispenser
- Food can be dispensed up to four times a day.
- The leak-proof storage keeps food fresh
- You can record a message for your pet
- $$
Best Feeder for Portion Control: BELOPEZZ 6L Smart Pet Automatic Feeders
- Automated detection feature helps control portions
- Can hold up to 6 L of dry food
- Made with environmentally friendly materials
- $$
Best Automatic Feeder for Scheduling Meals: PetSafe 5 Meal Pet Feeder
- Can provide up to 5-feedings each day
- Feedings can be scheduled on 1-hour increments
- This feeder runs on batteries
- $$
Best Gravity Feeder: Ancaixin Automatic Cat Feeder and Water Dispenser
- Affordable automatic feeder
- Includes a water dispenser in addition to the food dispenser
- Easy to clean
- $
Best Automatic Feeder for Wet Food: Cat Mate C500 Automatic Feeder With Digital Timer
- This feeder works for both wet and dry food
- Ice packs are built-in to keep food fresh
- Easy to clean
- $$
Final Thoughts
Automatic cat feeders are a great way to prevent your cat from overeating. This is also a perfect tool for pet owners who are not home during feeding times, but want to make sure their cats have access to food.
All of the feeders included in this post are great options. We selected the WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser as the best overall feeder because it has all of the essential features, like portion control and audio recording. Plus, this feeder is easy to clean. However, the choice is ultimately up to you.
We hope this post helped you learn more about automatic cat feeders so you can pick the best one for your pet. Feel free to share your thoughts about cat feeders below.