Automatic cat feeder: types of automatic feeders and their features

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:

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.

The best automatic waterer for cats according to user reviews: Imac Pet Fountain

A bowl with a fountain that cannot be turned over

Pros: The automatic watering fountain for cats is entirely made in Italy. It is worth noting that this country has very strict environmental requirements, so all companies use materials that are safe for nature, humans and animals in the production of their products. The Pet Fountain device is no exception in this case.

The shape of the automatic drinking bowl for cats resembles a large sea stone, which has been polished for many years by the waves running over it. The dimensions of the device are approximately 30 x 30 cm, and there are two colors to choose from: light gray and blue. The drinker is connected to the network using a two-meter cable. The power of the pump and, as a result, the intensity of the fountain’s operation is regulated at the bottom of the structure. A special float will remind you that the gadget is running out of water.

The volume of the automatic drinker is 2 liters. During operation, a small fountain forms in the center, and the water smoothly flows into the tank, where it passes through a large-area filter and returns for circulation. The murmur attracts pets. Thanks to this, they consume more fluid, which is especially important for cats on a diet of dry food.

Users note the quiet operation of the device, and significant advantages include the stability of the structure, thanks to which cats cannot turn the gadget over.

Cons: none identified

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.

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.

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

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.

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.”

The best water bottle with USB connection: Drinking fountain for cats

With high sides for protection against splashes

Pros: The automatic waterer for cats of different breeds is designed with a deep understanding of the needs and requirements of pets. The height of the device is more than 18 cm, so pets can drink liquid without bending over. Water is supplied through three fountains, so the gadget can be considered for purchase by owners of several cats or small dogs.

The “triple spring” attachment of the automatic drinking bowl allows picky pets to determine which side is more convenient for them to drink from, which facilitates the process of getting used to the device. It is worth noting the presence of high sides that prevent water from spilling and splashing on the floor. The tank volume is 2.5 liters.

This supply will last for 10 days, so you can go away for the weekend, leaving your pet at home, with full confidence that he will have clean and fresh water. A transparent window on the front panel will help you monitor the liquid level.

The heart of the device is a multi-stage filter. In appearance it resembles the Aquaphor system. After passing through four levels, the water is purified from debris, heavy metals, unpleasant odors and bacteria. Also, excess salts are removed from the water, which is extremely important for the prevention of diseases of the urinary system.

The fountain drinker works from a USB cable: it can be connected to a computer or via a power supply to the electrical network. The safe design ensures that your pet will never be shocked. Energy consumption is almost unnoticeable - 10 rubles per month when working 24/7. Blue neon lighting pleasantly highlights the floor-mounted drinking bowl with USB connection.

Cons: not installed.

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.

Automatic feeder with servo motor

A stationary automatic feeder is a more complex design. Those who are familiar with radio electronics can handle its manufacture.

The presented model is convenient because it is equipped with a spacious compartment. It easily holds up to 4 kg of food, which is more than enough for 2 weeks of food.

To make a feeder you will need:

• wooden or plywood sheets;
• glass or plastic blanks;
• tools for woodworking.

The unit will be started by linear actuators driven by a control device. The role of the motor can be performed by a servomotor. You can buy it on sale or make it yourself from scrap materials.

One example of assembling a simple motor from scrap materials is shown in the video instructions below:

In our case, the Micro Servo Towerpro SG90 9 model is installed.

To control the motors and the ability to set time intervals, you will also need a microcontroller. The described option uses the simplest version of the microcontroller from the manufacturer Arduino. The budget model has low consumption and is famous for its high performance parameters, and therefore is ideal for tasks of this kind. You will also need pins to connect the board to the servomotor and a USB charger rated for 5 V.

To program the opening of the feeder, setting a 24-hour interval between food supply, write the code for Arduino:

The first step is to assemble the wooden structure. The basis for its manufacture are boards 80 cm long and 60 cm long, having a width of 10 cm. The design will have the shape of a box standing vertically on legs. The back side of the box is covered with a plywood sheet, the front side is covered with transparent plastic.

Two strips are nailed to the bottom side of the box at an angle of 45° to guide the movement of food. Their lower ends rest against two retractable boards fastened together. This rectangle partially covers the through hole made in the bottom board. The diameter of the hole should be slightly smaller than the size of the cat's bowl.

The principle of operation of the device is simple: during periods specified by the microcontroller, a rectangle in the form of boards of equal size fastened together moves to the side. At this moment, the through hole made inside it coincides with the hole in the wall of the box. As a result: a portion of food is poured into a bowl placed below.

To make the structure movable, a block with a through hole is attached to the bottom bar using movable links.

A hole is made in the lower left corner of the assembled structure to allow the mechanism to be connected to the engine.

Using wires, the servomotor and microcontroller are connected into a common circuit. The board is “powered” directly from the network by connecting a 5V charger via USB. Check the functionality of the system.

If the mechanism works properly, all that remains is to fill the feeder with food and invite your four-legged pet to taste the treats.

Based on the described option, you can build a feeding system with a slightly different operating principle. In it, the body of the feeder is made of acrylic sheets, and the rotating dispenser is made of failed CD discs.

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:

1. Type of food used, size of pellets.
2. Capacity – the volume of the tank.
3. Operating mode – ability to configure, number of programs.
4. Functionality – the presence of additional functions (audio communication, photo and video recording).
5. The material of the product is reliable, easy to care for, and environmentally friendly.
6. Easy installation of the program.
7. Power source - batteries, mains.
8. Certificate of quality, warranty period.