Amata Beckman

Written by Amata Beckman

Published: 15 Feb 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

8-best-automatic-feeder-for-cats-and-small-dogs
Source: Thesprucepets.com

Are you tired of constantly worrying about feeding your furry friend while you're away? An automatic feeder for your cat or small dog could be the solution you've been looking for. These convenient devices dispense food at scheduled times, ensuring that your pet never misses a meal. In this article, we will explore the 8 best automatic feeders for cats and small dogs, taking into consideration factors such as capacity, ease of cleaning, and programming options. By the end of this review, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision on which automatic feeder is right for your beloved pet.

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 8/10

The Smart Automatic Cat Feeder is a reliable and efficient solution for ensuring your pet is fed on time and with the right portion, even when you're away. It features a simple LCD screen for easy setup, a 6-liter food capacity, and both manual & timed feeding options. With a pet-safe design and dependable dual power supply, it offers peace of mind for pet owners. The feeder has received several positive reviews, highlighting its reliability, ease of use, and compatibility with different pets. While some users have noted minor issues with the clock and top stability, the overall consensus is that it is a cost-effective solution for maintaining a consistent feeding schedule for pets.

Key Features

  • Reliable feeding with 6L food capacity
  • Health and hygiene of preset meals
  • Simple setup with LCD screen and voice recorder
  • Pet-safe design with nonslip bottom and dual power supply

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 11.25Lx7.75Wx13.00H
  • Size: 6 Litter (25 Cups)

Pros

  • Allows for 6 feeding times per day
  • Simple setup and customizable schedule
  • Pet-safe design prevents overeating and power outages

Cons

  • Clock may not be precise
  • Top lid doesn't securely clip in place

The Smart Automatic Cat Feeder provides a reliable solution for pet owners to maintain a consistent feeding schedule for their pets, even when away. With a combination of easy setup, dependable features, and a generous food capacity, it offers excellent value for pet care. While it may have minor issues, the overall functionality and convenience make it a worthwhile investment for pet owners looking for an automated feeding solution.

Overall Score: 8/10

The IMIPAW Automatic Cat Feeder is a programmable device designed to dispense dry food for pets on a routine schedule. The feeder features an adjustable capacity, user-friendly interface, and dual power supply for uninterrupted operation. It's also designed to prevent food clogging, making it a reliable, hassle-free option for keeping pets fed while away from home.

Key Features

  • Accurate and programmable timed feeding up to 36 portions daily
  • Easy to use and maintain with built-in LCD screen
  • 3L food storage for several days
  • Dual power supply to prevent outage
  • Satisfaction guaranteed with replacement or refund options

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 7.16Lx7.16Wx11.14H
  • Size: 3L

Pros

  • Accurate and adjustable feeding schedule
  • Easy to operate and clean
  • 3L food storage for extended use
  • Dual power supply for continuous operation

Cons

  • Initial setup may be difficult for some users
  • Timekeeping accuracy may vary over extended use

The IMIPAW Automatic Cat Feeder offers a convenient solution for pet owners who want to ensure their pets are fed timely and accurately. With its reliable performance and easy maintenance, it’s a practical choice for keeping pets well-fed, especially during absences. Despite minor setup challenges and occasional timekeeping issues, the feeder’s overall functionality and capacity make it a worthy investment for pet care.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Small Gravity Auto Feeder holds 3 pounds of kibble and uses gravity to continuously dispense food to your pet. It is ideal for small to medium size dogs and cats, made in the USA from USFDA approved plastic that is safe for food/water contact and BPA Free, with a high-polish finish that is easy to clean and dishwasher safe. It features a wide, no-tip base to keep meal time mess-free, with side cutouts that allow the feeder to be picked up with ease.

Key Features

  • 3 Pound Capacity, ideal size for cats and small to medium size dogs
  • Made in the USA from USFDA approved plastic that is safe for food/water contact and BPA Free
  • High-polish finish is easy to clean and dishwasher safe

Specifications

  • Color: Gray
  • Dimension: 11.50Lx6.88Wx8.50H
  • Size: Pack of 1

Pros

  • Holds 3 pounds of kibble and uses gravity to continuously dispense food
  • Wide, no-tip base to keep meal time mess-free
  • Made in the USA from USFDA approved plastic

Cons

  • Lid may not stay closed without a piece of tape
  • Some users found the opening to be too large for cat food

The Small Gravity Auto Feeder is a practical and convenient solution for pet owners, providing a mess-free and continuous food supply for their small to medium size dogs and cats. Made in the USA from safe and BPA Free materials, this feeder offers great value for pet owners looking for a reliable feeding solution for their pets. With easy-to-clean features and a wide, no-tip base, it is a great choice for those looking for a hassle-free feeding solution.

Overall Score: 9/10

The BEMOONY Automatic Cat Feeder is a modern, minimalist pet feeder designed to provide a hassle-free feeding experience for pet owners. With a 3L capacity, customized feeding schedule, dual power supply, and voice recording feature, this cat feeder is a game-changer for pet's feeding routine. The 10s voice recording allows pet owners to customize messages for their pets. It has a double lock design to prevent pets from accessing the food. The feeder has a battery backup and a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind. The feeder is recommended for busy pet owners and those on a budget.

Key Features

  • Saves Time, Accompanies Me More
  • 10s Voice, Mom's Call
  • Double Lock Design, I Can't Open It
  • 3L Capacity, Happy Traveling
  • Dual Power Supply, Stable Food Supply
  • Professional Team, I trust BEMOONY

Specifications

  • Color: Black-3L
  • Dimension: 7.00Lx7.00Wx8.00H

Pros

  • Customized feeding schedule
  • Dual power supply
  • 10s voice recording feature
  • Easy to program and use
  • 3L capacity to last up to 15 days

Cons

  • Missing clear piece (according to one reviewer)
  • Limited bowl size and speaker proximity

The BEMOONY Automatic Cat Feeder is a practical and modern solution for pet owners. With features like a 10s voice recording, double lock design, and a generous 3L capacity, it offers convenience and peace of mind. While a few reviewers noted minor drawbacks, the overall rating and positive feedback make it a highly recommended choice for pet owners, especially those with busy schedules.

Overall Score: 8/10

The PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Feeder is a convenient solution for pet owners who need to schedule timed automated feedings for their cats or dogs. With the ability to program up to six meals daily and record a 10-second message to call your pet to eat, this feeder provides freshness preservation for every bite. Featuring smart infrared detection and easy setup, this granary pet feeder helps pet owners ensure their pets are fed regularly, even when they're not at home.

Key Features

  • Easy to Set Up and Program: Schedule up to six meals daily and up to 50 portions per meal
  • Freshness in Every Bite: Patent rotor, secure twist-lock lid, desiccant bag, and sealing strip for freshness preservation
  • Personalized Meal Call: Record a 10-second message and play it to get your pet to eat
  • Smart Infrared Detection: Automatically suspend the cat feeder when an obstruction is detected

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 11.50Lx7.70Wx7.70H
  • Size: 3L

Pros

  • Convenient for scheduling multiple meals daily
  • Keeps food fresh with freshness preservation features
  • Ability to record personalized meal calls
  • Infrared detection for safety

Cons

  • Clunky app interface
  • Loose food bowl design
  • Portion size accuracy

The PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Feeder offers convenient scheduling and freshness preservation features for pet owners. Despite some drawbacks in app interface and portion size, the feeder’s reliable automated feeding and customizable meal calls make it a valuable addition for pet care routines.

Overall Score: 8/10

The VOLUAS Automatic Cat Feeder is a reliable, programmable feeder that allows for up to 4 daily meals. It offers flexible power options, voice recording for meal calls, and user-friendly operation. The 4L food storage is ideal for weekends or short trips. Users appreciate its convenience and easy set-up. The feeder is suitable for small pets such as cats or small dogs, with adjustable portion control options to cater to different needs. While the audio quality of the voice recorder is not top-notch, it generally performs well. The feeder is recommended for those looking for a hassle-free way to reliably feed their pets, especially during times when they are away from home.

Key Features

  • Easy Programmable Feeding Times: Set 1-4 meals with 0-40 portion choices
  • Wired or Battery Power: Choose between wired or battery power
  • Voice Recorder Meal Call: Record up to 10 seconds of audio
  • User Friendly Operation: Intuitive LCD screen for easy setup
  • High-Capacity Food Storage: 4L/16.9 Cup storage for several days

Specifications

  • Color: White Opaque
  • Dimension: 7.71Lx7.71Wx11.42H
  • Size: 4L

Pros

  • Easy to set up
  • Good portion size options
  • Removable bowl for cleaning
  • Locking lid and screen

Cons

  • Audio quality of the voice recorder
  • Portion settings may require trial and error
  • Battery compartment access is awkward

The VOLUAS Automatic Cat Feeder offers great convenience and reliability for pet owners. Its programmable features and high-capacity food storage make it a suitable choice for those looking for peace of mind when it comes to pet feeding. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as audio quality and portion setting adjustments, it generally performs well for its intended purpose.

Overall Score: 9/10

The Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder is perfect for multi-pet households and larger breeds, with a 6 lbs. capacity to accommodate a large amount of food. It locks securely into the base for stability and is suitable for car and airline travel. Petmate has been producing eco-friendly pet products for over 50 years, making a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens, and other small furry friends. The feeder has a pearl silver color and dimensions of 6.80Lx10.40Wx9.70H. It has received an average customer rating of 4.3 out of 5.

Key Features

  • Age range description: All ages
  • Multi-Pet households: Accommodates a large amount of food for multi-pet households
  • Food & Water: Keeps pets fed with fresh food and water
  • Petmate: Passionate about making eco-friendly pet products for over 50 years
  • Just for pets: Makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens, and other small furry friends

Specifications

  • Color: Pearl Silver
  • Dimension: 6.80Lx10.40Wx9.70H
  • Size: 3 Lbs

Pros

  • Accommodates multi-pet households and larger breeds
  • Suitable for car & airline travel
  • Durable and well-made

Cons

  • Difficult to fill with large bags of food
  • Top piece doesn't lock in well

The Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder is a fantastic solution for multi-pet households and larger breeds. It provides a convenient and stable way to keep pets fed with fresh food, and its durable construction makes it suitable for various environments. However, the difficulty in filling it with large bags of food and the issue with the top piece not locking in well are minor drawbacks to an otherwise great product.

Overall Score: 8/10

Make sure your cats and dogs always have enough food and water with this 2-pack automatic cat feeder and water dispenser. Featuring a large 1-gallon capacity and gravity feeding design, it's perfect for when you're away from home. Prevents food from getting stuck and has a siphon device to prevent water leakage.

Key Features

  • Automatic Cat Feeder and Cat Water Dispenser Set: Includes 1 cat food feeder and 1 cat water bowl feeder
  • Automatic Refills Food and Water with Gravity Cat Feeders: Self-gravity feeding design, no electricity required
  • 1 Gallon Big Capacity Dog Water Bowl Dispenser: Enough water for small kitten for 7 days, big pets for 3 days
  • Big Mouth Design Prevent Food Getting Struck: Wider mouth prevents food from getting stuck
  • Siphon Device Design Prevent Water Leakage: Automatically stops water flow to prevent leaks

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 12.60Lx12.60Wx8.27H

Pros

  • Large capacity for extended use
  • Gravity feeding design requires no electricity
  • Prevents food getting stuck
  • Prevents water leakage

Cons

  • Water dispenser may not always fill the bowl
  • Water may get a little funky and need to be replaced

The Automatic Cat Feeder and Water Dispenser set provides a convenient and reliable solution to ensure your pets are fed and hydrated, even when you’re away from home. With its large capacity, gravity feeding design, and additional measures to prevent food and water issues, it’s a great choice for pet owners.

Types of Cat Feeders

  • Gravity Feeders
    • These feeders use gravity to automatically refill the food bowl as your cat eats.
    • Good for cats who like to graze throughout the day.
    • Make sure to clean and refill regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
  • Automatic Feeders
    • These feeders are programmed to dispense a specific amount of food at set times.
    • Great for cats on a strict feeding schedule or for owners who are away during feeding times.
    • Some models are battery-operated, so make sure to check and replace the batteries regularly.
  • Wet Food Feeders
    • Designed specifically for wet cat food, these feeders ensure the food stays fresh and doesn't dry out.
    • Some models come with ice packs to keep the food cool throughout the day.
  • Microchip-Activated Feeders
    • These feeders only open when they detect the designated cat's microchip or collar tag, preventing other pets from eating the food.
    • Ideal for multi-pet households or for cats on a special diet.

Important Features to Consider

  • Capacity
    • Consider the size of the food bowl and the amount of food the feeder can hold.
    • It should be able to hold enough food to last throughout the day or for the designated feeding times.
  • Customizable Portions
    • If you have specific feeding requirements for your cat, such as portion control, look for a feeder that allows you to customize the amount of food dispensed.
  • Ease of Cleaning
    • Look for feeders with removable parts that are easy to clean, such as dishwasher-safe components.
    • Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold.
  • Power Source
    • Depending on the type of feeder, consider whether it requires batteries or if it needs to be plugged into an outlet.
    • Battery-operated feeders need regular battery checks and replacements to ensure they continue working properly.
  • Reliability
    • Read reviews and check the reliability of the feeder to ensure it dispenses food consistently and accurately.
    • Look for models with a backup power option in case of a power outage.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cat Feeder

  • Consider Your Cat's Needs
    • If your cat prefers to graze throughout the day, a gravity feeder may be the best option.
    • For strict feeding schedules, an automatic feeder with customizable portions may be more suitable.
  • Multi-Pet Household Considerations
    • If you have multiple pets, consider a microchip-activated feeder to ensure that each pet gets the right food.
  • Budget
    • Set a budget for the feeder and research different options within that price range.
    • Keep in mind that a higher-quality feeder may be worth the investment in the long run.
  • Space
    • Consider the size of the feeder and where it will be placed in your home.
    • Make sure it fits in the designated area and is easily accessible for your cat.
  • Consult Your Veterinarian
    • If your cat has specific dietary needs or portions, consult your veterinarian for advice on choosing the right feeder.
  • Read Reviews
    • Look for feedback from other cat owners to get real-world insight into the performance and durability of the feeder.

ConclusionChoosing the right cat feeder is essential for your cat's health and well-being. Consider your cat's eating habits, your household dynamics, and your budget when selecting a feeder. Look for features that make cleaning and maintenance easy, as well as the reliability of the feeder to ensure it consistently dispenses the right amount of food. By taking the time to research and select the best option for your cat, you can provide them with a convenient and reliable way to access their food.

Frequently Asked Questions about 8 Best Automatic Feeder For Cats And Small Dogs

How many times a day should I feed my cat?

It is recommended to feed your cat 2-3 times a day, following the serving size guidelines on the cat food packaging.

What are the benefits of using an automatic cat feeder?

Automatic cat feeders can help regulate your cat’s feeding schedule, prevent overeating, and ensure they are fed on time even when you are not home.

Can I use a cat feeder for wet food?

Yes, there are automatic cat feeders specifically designed for wet food that can keep it fresh and dispense it at scheduled times.

How do I clean a cat feeder?

You can usually disassemble the cat feeder and wash the parts with warm, soapy water. Be sure to dry thoroughly before refilling.

Are there cat feeders that can accommodate multiple cats?

Yes, there are cat feeders with multiple compartments or separate feeding stations to accommodate multiple cats and prevent food stealing.

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