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.
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.
Principle of operation
Based on the type of action, automatic feeders are divided into 4 types:
- Segmental. They are usually made in a round shape. Inside the body there is a bowl, divided into several parts, into which the food is placed. From above, this structure is closed with a lid, giving access to each segment at a certain time.
- With a hinged lid. They are used if you need to feed your pet once, at a set time.
- Programmable. A device with a large capacity. It is configured to dispense feed of a given volume after a certain period of time.
- Mechanical. They are a container with food that is attached to a bowl. They are not equipped with an adjustment mechanism.
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 have a different 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.
Let's sum it up
Many animal lovers are faced with the fact that they do not have enough time to communicate with their pets. Moreover, feeding on a schedule is a hot topic, inaccessible to almost any modern animal lover, except for those citizens who:
- run the household;
- work from home;
- don't work, etc.
If you do not fall into any of these categories, but are the owner of a cat and are worried that you are not feeding or loving your pet, then an automatic feeder, which can also offer interactive elements of interaction, would be the ideal solution for you. It will help regulate the food intake of a gluttonous cat, and at the same time create a large number of reasons for his involvement in physical activity.
Glutton cat waiting for food
As you can see, there are several options for this feeder. In this article we presented for your consideration such models as:
- a device for “slow” feeding in the form of a plateau with containers of different heights, which will force your pet to try hard to get food for itself;
- automatic plastic feeder, created from two water bottles and electrical tape;
- an interactive product with automatic food supply for feeding a cat, equipped with a game element that awakens the animal in your best friend;
- a rattle feeder, inside of which you can place not only dry food, but also commercially produced treats, as well as your pet’s favorite small toys;
- a device in the form of a swing, by hitting which the mustachioed tabby will be able to get food and eat it right on the spot;
- and, finally, as an automated feeder with a dispenser, which even has a complex mechanical part built into it - the clock core.
By spending only five to fifteen minutes of your free time, and a completely insignificant amount of money (in most cases you can do without it at all), you will make a big contribution to the mental and physical health of the being dear to you. Don’t waste your time, because this is how love manifests itself – in the form of care. Be sure that your pet will repay you with the warmest affection.
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.
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
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.”
Food puzzle for a cat: why is it needed?
We are talking about a special toy in which treats are hidden and you can get them out only with a little effort.
Even the usual food will become many times more desirable for a cat if she got it herself. This food toy needs to be moved, shaken and rolled to get tasty contents.
However, not all cat breeds have an urgent need for such entertainment. You can find out this by offering a food puzzle.
And, if your pet is an obvious and born hunter, there is no escape. You will have to figure out how to make a cat toy with your own hands, a fun toy, a feeding toy. We do not suggest buying it in the store right away. It’s enough to make it yourself from what you have in the house to understand how much your pet will like it. Well, the pleasure of an independently created developmental and health device has not been canceled.
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. |
Assembling the feeder
Using the tools, an automated feeder is created that will independently dispense food at a time interval set by the owner. For assembly you will need:
- Clock mechanism.
- Round tin can.
- Clay for modeling.
- 1 piece of thin plywood.
- Nails.
- Double-sided tape.
The clock mechanism is removed from the old clock. It is often sold in stores separately from the entire watch case.
- The base of the feeder is a tin can; a cookie container will do. It needs to be dried and crumbs and dirt removed. The surface should be smooth, without burrs that could injure the cat's tongue.
- The inner covering, 4 sections for storing food, and a connector for the clock mechanism are made from clay.
- After the clay has dried, the watch mechanism is placed in the middle of the jar with the dial facing up. You can secure it with double-sided tape. It is not worth attaching the dial with superglue, since later the entire mechanism will have to be removed to change the battery. In order not to remove the watch from the bowl, make a hole in the clay for the battery compartment.
- Then the hour hand is reinforced with plywood. Its main function is to move the cover of the device. A small piece of plywood should be secured along the entire length and width of the arrow. This way it won’t break during operation.
- The cover is made from the same sheet of plywood. A circle is cut out of it, equal to the diameter of the tin can. Then you should cut 1 segment equal to 1 food storage section.
- The lid is attached to the base using any fasteners. Bolts, nuts or nails work best. When applying, you need to make sure that the lid fits tightly to the clockwise direction. Otherwise, the feeder will become inoperative.
After assembly, the feeder is decorated. To make the paint easily applied to the jar, it is better to cover it with clay and let it dry. Do not paint clay with paint that has a pungent odor or toxic composition. Every 6 hours, 1 section with food is opened in front of the animal. A homemade automatic feeder provides your cat with food for up to 24 hours. The price of the dispenser does not exceed 500 rubles.
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.
Rattle feeder
When making such a feeder, the emphasis is not on the automatic delivery of food, but on involving the cat in the process of getting it. The design is made from simple and affordable materials, the whole process will take no more than 10-15 minutes. To work, you will need a minimum of materials - a plastic container with a volume of 5-6 liters or a container with thick walls, a stationery knife, a lighter. The manufacturing process is as follows:
- First, you need to make many wide holes in the container. The size of the latter should be such that the cat can easily insert its paw into them.
- The edges of the resulting holes will be very sharp. To protect the animal from injury, you should singe them with a lighter. Then you need to pour food, various treats and toys inside through the neck.
- The result is a rattle toy containing not only food, but also various items for entertainment. The success of such a product is guaranteed.
