A well-fed cat is a happy cat! Each device undoubtedly has a number of advantages and disadvantages; in addition, there are many models of such devices, which complicates the choice of this accessory. In this article, we will get acquainted with different types of cat feeders, consider their technical capabilities, and also, together with the portal experts, we will try to assemble such a feeder ourselves.
Choose a feeder based on the characteristics of your pet - some cats may refuse to eat from what they consider to be the “wrong” plate.
Automatic cat feeder. Pros and cons of using
Automatic cat feeders are appropriate if you spend most of your time at work or on business trips. Before making a choice, let's see what advantages and disadvantages such automatic food serving systems have. Advantages of automatic cat feeders:
- practicality _ The automatic cat feeder is quite compact, so it can be placed in any room. Such devices are sold in different designs, which will not worsen the interior of your apartment. In addition, you can take the feeder with you on trips;
- multifunctionality. Some devices not only include a pet feeding function, but are also designed to record voices;
- possibility of precise dosage. The automatic device allows the pet to eat in portions, as a result of which the pet will be full throughout the day;
- Ease of use . The cat feeder is quite heavy, so the animal will not be able to knock over the dish. You can leave the “unit” in any convenient place.
In addition to its wonderful qualities, an automatic cat feeder has several significant disadvantages:
- high price . Not everyone will allow themselves to spend money on this device (however, there is an alternative solution - making the item yourself);
- Problems often arise with the operation of the dispenser . It happens that it stops working;
- Some models have a characteristic odor of the raw materials used for production. This scares the animal, and it refuses to feed from such a device;
- does not always guarantee the safety of food fresh for one or several days.
INTERESTING FACT!
Among the variations of feeders, there are models that are equipped with a sound recording and playback device. You can record anything: the neighbor's cat or the owner's voice.
Questions and answers
How reliable are automatic feeders?
Manufacturers try to make such devices as safe and reliable as possible, but sometimes failures occur, and no one has canceled the defects. Even self-contained feeders can accidentally run out of power and turn off, or their program can go wrong and they stop dispensing portions of food. Although such cases are rare, it is still not recommended to leave your pets completely unattended. They should be visited at least once every 2-3 days.
What type of feeders is the most successful?
Sectional feeders can be filled with any food, but such a feeder will last for three days without refilling. Feeders with a single reservoir are only suitable for dry food, but with skillful use the volume of food for a cat can be enough for even a week. Feeders equipped with a drinking section are another type of successful device.
Is it worth buying battery-powered feeders?
These feeders are the most convenient and safest. It is important to understand that each model uses its own standard of batteries, and different feeders consume different amounts of energy. Successful models use more or less common batteries, which last for a year of use without replacement.
Why do we need airtight lids for feeders?
Tight, airtight lids allow the food inside the feeder to be stored longer. In addition, cats and cats, as well as other pets, will not be able to open the durable, tightly closed lid and eat the food ahead of time.
Is it worth buying a drinker?
Many automatic feeders already have a water compartment, or you can pour water into one of the regular sections. In addition, if the owners do not leave the house for more than a day, a regular bowl of water will be enough for the cat. A separate automatic drinker will be needed if the owners will not appear at home for a long time. Another reason to buy a drinking bowl is to improve the quality of the water (filter it and saturate it with oxygen) that the cat drinks. If you give your cat tap water, this water bottle is a good buy.
How does an automatic cat feeder work?
At first glance, such a device, with its dimensions and filling, can cause mistrust not only in the animal, but also in the owner. However, there is nothing supernatural in the device. Let's look at some of the features of the electronic cat feeder:
| Photo | Description |
| First you need to make sure that the device is functioning. To do this, check the charge of the batteries that it runs on (it is advisable to do this every time you leave your pet at home). | |
| Dry or wet food is distributed into compartments that hold about 300 g. | |
| Securely fix the lid of the automatic feeder. | |
| Record your voice calling your pet for food (available if the device is equipped with a similar function). | |
| Set a timer that will automatically open the feeder compartments after a set time. |
NOTE!
Almost every feeder has three operating programs in which the opening time of the compartments is calculated: once a day for four days; twice a day - for 3 days; three times - within two days.
Main types of cat feeders
Depending on the appearance and built-in functions, it is customary to classify feeding devices for pets into several types. Each of them may differ in internal structure. A timer is one of the most important and indispensable functions for an automatic feeder. An automatic cat feeder with a timer is a device consisting of several compartments. Dry, wet food, pate are placed in it, alternating with water. After the time set by the owner has passed, the cat can eat and drink. The device runs on regular batteries, so power outages are not a problem for it. A mechanical feeder constantly adds food, in this case it is impossible to control the animal’s diet
Device without electronics (mechanical)
Designed for two plastic containers: one contains dry food, and the other is intended for pouring food into it from the first container. However, the use of this device is impractical, since the animal can eat all the food at one time, because it replenishes the bowl as it is emptied. The dispenser helps to accurately distribute the amount of food in the bowl
Cat feeder with dispenser
Designed for filling both wet and dry food. Typically, one load is enough for an average of 4–6 feedings. The device is equipped with a timer and a display where you can track the battery charge. The device can also be used as a drinking bowl. Feeders with a timer can be programmed several days in advance
Automatic dry food feeders with timer
Such a feeder is a device with a container into which a large amount of food is poured, and a free bowl into which food for the cat is poured after a specified time. You can program the device for several days and even weeks in advance. It depends on how big the loading bowl is. A great idea for an active animal that participates in exhibitions and competitions
Puzzle feeder
The design of these devices is thought out for trained pets. A smart cat will try to get food from a multi-level maze. The food in such a device always remains fresh, and the cat develops intelligence and remains alert throughout the day. The automatic drinking bowl for pets works on the principle of a feeder.
Automatic drinking bowl for cats
The automatic cat water bowl has good capacity and a stable body. Depending on the manufacturer, you can select the required volume of the water bowl. Some drinker options are equipped with a carbon filter, which allows you to keep the water fresh. Some drinkers can be filled remotely using special applications on your phone
Remote Control Models
An automatic cat feeder with an interactive function allows the owner to remotely control the consumption of food and water in the container. Using a specially installed application on your smartphone or laptop, you can monitor how much food the animal received and at what time.
NOTE!
The newest models can independently determine the required amount of food depending on the age and body weight of the pet.
Types of feeders
- A top container with a bowl underneath. In this case, it is important that the structure is heavy, otherwise a curious cat may turn it over;
- Single container with hinged lid. When it rises, the cat has access to food, but the portion size is not controlled;
- Flat feeding bowl with portioned sectors. The lid has one hole and, turning, opens new segments with food over and over again. These feeders are difficult to knock over, but they are designed for a maximum of 4-6 meals.
If you are leaving the animal for two days or more, we advise you to take a closer look at automated feeders with a dispenser, in this case you will be able to determine the portion size daily during your absence.
Basic recommendations for choosing an automatic cat feeder
In order to maintain the correct regime and diet of your pet using an automatic feeding device, it is necessary to take into account important points.
| Rule | Decoding |
| Material and color | It is important that the device is made of high-quality plastic or metal. Notches, scratches and chips are unacceptable on it. If there is an unpleasant odor from the device, then this purchase should be abandoned. Pay attention to the color of the device: it is better to choose a neutral shade, as it will not irritate the cat’s eyesight. |
| Operating mode and programming | In most models, you can set an individual feeding regimen. This should be done based on the length of time between meals. Pay attention to models that can be programmed for several days. |
| Bowl volume and feeding method | Depending on the manufacturer, the volume of the feed container may vary. For some it reaches 3 kg, and for others? no more than 1.5 kg. It is most convenient if the device supplies food to the compartments in small portions. |
| Device Security | The structure should be as stable as possible so that the pet cannot tip it over. It is also important to determine in advance the location where the device will be placed. Take care of the animal's comfort and do not allow it to remain hungry. |
| Performance and operation | In a specialized store, make sure that the feeder is functioning, ask the manager to clearly show the device in operation. The device should be used at home strictly according to the instructions in the instructions. |
| Service and warranty | You should not purchase a product if it does not come with a warranty card; this is the only way the device will be serviced (repaired, adjusted) free of charge for a year. |
ON A NOTE!
When purchasing an automatic device for feeding a cat, you need to pay attention to the weight and age of the animal. This is necessary in order to determine the required dose of food for one meal.
What to look for when choosing?
When choosing an automatic cat feeder, consider the means, your needs and goals. You may not need expensive models with video recording if you just want to provide your cat with food during your workday. However, regardless of the technical equipment, there are a number of features that are worth paying attention to when choosing any feeder:
- Spacious container. Calculate how long you will be away from home and how much your cat should eat during this time. The food container must be of sufficient size to provide enough food for the animal;
- Safety. The bowl should be made of high-quality materials, ideally stainless steel;
- Weight. The device must be stable so that the animal does not accidentally knock it over;
- Type of device power supply : mains or batteries;
- Shutter sound. It sometimes happens that cats are initially afraid of the sound of an automatic feeder, so give your pet time to get used to it, or change the model.
Review of popular models of automatic cat feeders
From the following list you can highlight the most interesting options for automatic cat feeders, characterized by their individual capabilities.
11th place. Model Karlie-Flamingo
The “2 in 1” device (feeder + drinker) is designed for several uses. The container is designed for dry food; it can hold up to 2 kg of food for your pet. The drinking bowl is made in the form of a bottle. The flow of food and water occurs as the bowls are emptied.
Automatic feeder
10th place. Moderna SMART model
The device is not equipped with electronics and is characterized by small capacity. The food will last for 1–2 days, depending on the cat’s diet. The advantage of the design is ease of cleaning and operation.
Automatic feeder
9th place. Trixie
Feeder for cats for one feeding, which is set using a timer. The lid of the device opens after the set time has elapsed. The automatic feeder is suitable for using dry and wet food, as it has an ice container installed, which helps keep the product fresh.
Auto feeder Trixie
8th place. Trixie 4
The device has four sections with a capacity of up to 500 ml. Adjustable using a timer. The time range of the device is 96 hours.
auto feeder Trixie
7th place. SITITEK
The automatic cat feeder is designed for 6 feedings. The trays are slightly smaller than the previous model, the device is battery-powered, and has a voice recording function that sounds three times before adding food.
Automatic feeder SITITEK
6th place. SITITEK Pets Mini
Automatic device designed for four feedings. Its total capacity is about 2 kg of feed. Designed mainly for storing dry food.
Automatic feeder SITITEK Pets Mini
5th place. Automatic feeder Feed Ex
The design is perfectly programmable and has a sound recording function. Great for long-term use (3-5 days). One feed tray has a volume of up to 60 g. The total capacity of the feeder is up to 7 kg of dry food.
Automatic feeder Feed Ex
4th place. Feed-ex model for 4 feedings
The device is equipped with an additional tray for ice or water. The food is placed in separate compartments. The automatic feeder is also equipped with a touch screen. This function controls the filling of the tray and the distribution of feed.
Automatic feeder Feed Ex
3rd place. Anmer Alien
The device is designed for 6 feedings, which can be of different volumes. The design contains a sensor that controls the addition of feed, preventing the tray from overflowing.
Automatic cat feeder
2nd place. PetWant PF-102
This device supplies food automatically using a sensor, which is also used for control. The food enters the bowl as it disappears.
Automatic feeder PetWant PF 102
1 place. Petwant
This is a universal model of automatic feeder that is useful for both cats and dogs. The device operates on batteries and has the option to record the owner's voice. Designed for five feedings a day.
Automatic feeder Petwant
The best automatic feeders in the mid-price segment
Automatic feeder NUM'AXES EYENIMAL Electronic Pet Feeder for dogs and cats
Rating: 4.9
The best in this category is the feeder, which will allow you to control the regime and not disturb it even in the absence of the owners. With its help, you can give small portions of food during the diet, as well as medications at times strictly prescribed by the veterinarian. The control panel is intuitive. On it you can program the amount and period of feed supply. The display will show the current status. It is equipped with LED backlight. You can set up to 3 feedings per day.
One serving corresponds to 25 g. The total amount is determined based on the needs of the cat or dog. A tight fit of the lid will protect the contents from the penetration of foreign odors and maintain the freshness of the food. The stable structure will not tip over even with high activity and curiosity of the pet.
The container and bowl are easily removable and can be washed in any way. The black plastic body looks stylish and does not require complicated maintenance. An excellent option at a very reasonable price - such reviews are left by buyers who have already tried the device in practice. Experts also praised the feeder from NUM'AXES.
Advantages
- large backlit display;
- hypoallergenic food plastic;
- precise dosing of portions in small increments;
- simple settings and hygienic care;
- nice universal design.
Flaws
- not identified.
Automatic cat feeder - reviews from real owners
Review: “Feed-Ex PF2Y Automatic Pet Feeder? a convenient thing if sometimes you need to go away for a couple of days. Advantages: a very convenient device, solves the problem of timely feeding of pets. Disadvantages: other than the price, there are no disadvantages.
There are situations in life when you need to go away for several days, but none of your relatives, friends and good acquaintances can (or does not want) to stop by and feed the animal that you have tamed and for which you are now responsible. And here comes to the rescue... tadam... automatic feeder!!!
Review: “Feed-Ex PF2Y Automatic Pet Feeder? very convenient and useful thing. Pros: very comfortable, cute and useful. Disadvantages: containers can be made smaller, but their number is greater than 6.
There has been a need for something like this for a long time. I often travel for a long time, sometimes up to 1–1.5 months. Was it always a problem? cat. I tried to give it to someone, it’s hard for people to tolerate someone else’s animal: sometimes it picks something up, sometimes there’s a lot of fur, sometimes it gets up at 5 in the morning, sometimes it climbs into the child’s crib...”
Review: “Feed-Ex PF2Y Automatic Pet Feeder? for those who care about their animals. Advantages: convenient, safe. Disadvantages: price. A completely convenient device for regular and gradual feeding of your pet.
Suitable either for very lazy owners, or those who are forced to be away from home for some time.”
Comparison table of characteristics
For a more clear comparison of the models presented above, we use a comparative table of characteristics.
| Model | Color | Volume (ml) | Material | Dimensions (cm) | Price, rub) |
| Feed-Ex for cats and dogs of small breeds PF7 2.5 l | blue | 2500 | plastic | 25×25×32 | from 3,218 to 3,891 |
| TRIXIE for two feedings TX2 600 ml | grey | 600 | plastic | 28×25×8 | from 1,172 to 3,094 |
| Feed-Ex Large PF100 | white | 10000 | plastic | 53×41×17 | from 9,761 to 10,924 |
| Ferplast AZIMUT 600 600 ml | blue | 600 | plastic | 19×12×19 | from 2,761 to 3,436 |
| Feed-Ex PF6 1.5 l | blue | 1500 | plastic | 32×32×8.5 | from 3,109 to 3,885 |
| Triol P510 500 ml | blue | 500 | plastic | 27×17×37 | from 1,456 to 2,084 |
| MPS MAYA Dispenser 750 ml | black | 750 | plastic | 23×21×9 | from 673 to 1,419 |
| TRIXIE 24383 TX6 | white | 1440 | metal | 32×32×10 | from 4,102 to 5,447 |
| Tetra myFeeder | black | 100 | plastic | 14×7×4 | from 4,120 to 5,624 |
| Eheim Autofeeder | black | 100 | metal | 12×14×19 | from 4,912 to 6,027 |
Do-it-yourself automatic cat feeder? tips and nuances for making
To make an automatic feeder for pets, you will need some materials and equipment:
- old wall clock (with battery);
- large tin can (from canned food or other product);
- clay that does not require oven drying;
- a piece of thin plywood;
- hacksaw or painting knife, tape measure, pencil;
- glue or double-sided tape (electrical tape will also work).
Let's look at step-by-step instructions for building a pet feeder.
| Photo | Description |
| Take a tin can and coat its outer part with clay. We form the required number of compartments, including for the dial. Leave to dry. | |
| Next, use special glue or double-sided tape to install the clock mechanism in the circle prepared in the center. Don't forget to replace the battery with a new one in advance. | |
| Now mark the desired size of the circle on the plywood (it should correspond to the size of the main bowl). We cut out the workpiece and connect it to the long arrow. It is she who will move the lid, gradually opening the trays. | |
| Paint the top of the feeder the color you want and wait until the smell goes away. Use a self-tapping screw to securely fasten the structure cover. | |
| After this we proceed to attaching the legs. To do this, you will need silicone or rubber pads. They will ensure the stability of the device on the floor, due to which the animal will not knock over the feeder. | |
| Once the device is ready, call your pet and show him where he should eat from. Don't worry, your cat will quickly learn to use the feeder. |
Option with plastic bottles
According to reviews of an automatic cat feeder, this option is one of the simplest to manufacture. The design can perfectly replace a purchased model.
You will need to prepare:
- A couple of five-liter plastic bottles;
- Sharp knife or scissors;
- Glue gun and tape;
- Awl.
The procedure is as follows:
- The bottom is cut off from one container to make a pallet;
- At its level, a small diameter hole is made near the second bottle;
- You need to install a container in the tray;
- The parts are fastened together;
- Dry food is added.
The principle is simple - the mixture is gradually poured into a bowl (tray) under its own weight after the cat has eaten the spilled granules.
Review of great deals: price per feeder
Experts agree that it is best to buy an automatic cat feeder in a specialized store. Such retail outlets provide a warranty on the operation of the device for at least 12 months. Sellers of these devices also provide a certificate for selling pet equipment. Typically, certified devices for feeding animals are sold in pet stores. Prices for designs depend on the model of the device, its functionality and the manufacturer’s brand. So, if you buy a feeder with automatic operation from Feed ex, you will pay about 3,000 rubles for it.
While purchasing a Trixie device will cost no more than 2,000 rubles. As a result, it is worth noting that every owner should buy a feeding accessory for their pet, based not only on their own financial preparedness, but also pay attention to the functionality of the device and ease of use.
How to choose
A large assortment of products is sold by pet stores and animal goods departments. Suitable models can be ordered online through online stores. The main condition is to choose the size of the animal.
To avoid mistakes when choosing, it is worth studying the parameters:
- Type of food used, size of pellets.
- Capacity – the volume of the tank.
- Operating mode – ability to configure, number of programs.
- Functionality – the presence of additional functions (audio communication, photo and video recording).
- The material of the product is reliable, easy to care for, and environmentally friendly.
- Easy installation of the program.
- Power source - batteries, mains.
- Certificate of quality, warranty period.
