If you have a cat, you want to make sure that your little furry friend is fed well and feeding is never forgotten. This would be easy if you are always in the house with your cat when it is time for their meals, but what happens when you have to go to work? You might also not want to be nudged up early in the mornings to serve your cat their breakfast, especially when you plan to sleep in. This is where an automatic cat feeder comes in handy.
An automatic cat feeder ensures that your cat’s meals are served on time even when you are not home to dispense the meals. If you are currently looking for one then you are in the right place! We have put together a list of the best automatic feeders you will find on the market currently to make your search much easier.
Before we go through the list, let’s tell you why the Cat Mate C500 Automatic Cat Feeder is our Best Pick. It is a 5-compartment feeder that allows you to schedule can feed one timed feed per day for 4 days. Each compartment holds over 300g of food and this allows you a lot of portion flexibility. When the timer goes off, the food bowl automatically rotates to expose a loaded food compartment. With this feeder, you can serve both wet and dry food, unlike most automatic feeders. To keep the food fresh for longer, this feeder comes with two ice packs too.
BEST PICK
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Best Automatic Cat Feeder Reviews
1. Cat Mate C500 Automatic 5-meal Pet Feeder
BEST PICK
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The Cat mate C500 automatic cat feeder is one of the best automatic feeders you will find on the market currently that is what I would consider reasonably priced. Unlike most automatic cat feeders that only serve dry food to your pet, this pet feeder allows you to serve your cat both wet and dry food which is a huge bonus as most alternatives only work with dry food and not all cats are on a diet of dry wood. The rotating food bowl has five compartments allowing you to program up to four meals at a time to suit you. One of the feeding compartments is left open as this helps to train your cat where to find the food.
Each of the five food sections on the bowl can hold over 300g of food, both dry and wet. This is a big enough food serving for at least two cats. If your using wet food it’s worth noting that this model also has ice backs to keep the food fresh too.
In terms of setting it up, the automatic cat feeder features a digital timer with an LCD for easy programming. When the timer goes off, the bowl rotates to make the food available for your cat. As mentioned, this feeder comes with two ice packs at the bottom to help keep wet food fresh for up to 24 hours after serving (depending on the temperature in the room). The tight lid also ensures that your cat is unable to tamper with the feeder and gain access to the food before the allocated time which can actually be a problem with some feeder designs we looked at.
This feeder is battery-operated and will require 3AA batteries which should give around 12 months of battery life. The batteries are not included in the purchase so make sure you have some ready if you decide to give this model a try.
The C500 feeder is easy to clean as both the lid and the food bowl are dishwasher safe which is a huge bonus, makes cleaning much easier if you have a dishwasher as I do. The food compartments are also deep to ensure that your pet does not spill food all over and make a mess. It little design details like these that separate the good models from the not so good models.
Pros
- You can program up to four meals a day for your cat or one-timed feed per day for 4 days.
- You are able to serve both wet and dry food to your cat.
- Food can be kept fresh for up to 24 hours using the ice packs at the bottom of the feeder.
- It is easy to program.
- It is easy to clean as both the bowl and the lid are dishwasher safe.
- It comes with a digital timer with a clear LCD.
- Each of the five food compartments can hold over 300g of food, which is more than enough for your cat. To give you an idea, my cat is only small but she has 40g of dry food twice a day.
Cons
- A strong cat can potentially move it around the room.
Why do we recommend it?
Most of the automatic cat feeders you will find on the market only hold dry food which is a big disadvantage to those who only feed their cat wet food. This one, however, allows you to serve both dry and wet food which I think is a huge advantage for some. It is battery operated using 3 AA batteries (not included) that can last for up to 12 months so it does have good battery life too. We love that it’s also easy to clean as the lid and the food bowl are dishwasher safe. As someone who uses a dishwasher daily, this is very convenient.
This is a point where if you have a cat that does this, you know what I’m referring to. The tight lid also ensures that your sneaky cat does not tamper with the feeder and eats the food before the scheduled times. Overall this is great quality and affordable automatic cat feeder and one that I highly recommend.
Read next: Best self cleaning litter boxes
2. PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder
RUNNER-UP
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
If instead, you are looking for a more advanced option that allows you a little more flexibility, this automatic cat feeder could be an ideal option for you but only if you serve dry food. The PetSafe Smart Automatic Feeder uses a mobile phone app to allow you to distribute food to your cat from anywhere but it also makes programming much easier. Nevermore will you have to worry if you know you are going to get home later than you expected to feed your cat.
With the PetSafe automatic pet feeder, you will get a notification on the app when your cat has been fed, but perhaps more importantly, when the food is running low, or when the food chamber is actually empty. This ensures that you are never caught unaware and your cat ends up going hungry.
The feeder is large enough to hold over 5.5 litres of food at a time, which is more than enough to feed a cat or a small dog for days. The only downside to this is that the feeder is fairly large so make your you check the dimensions and that you have enough space where you plan to put it.
The feeder also allows you to schedule up to twelve meals so there is plenty of flexibility for feeding times. You can schedule this feeder to dispense food in one go or alternatively if you find that your pet tends to eat too fast, you can use the slow feed feature to dispense food over a 15 minute period which I think is a great feature.
With the ‘feed now’ option, you can feed your pet at any time outside of the scheduled meal times you have set. This feature is handy if you are running late from work and feeding time for your cat is approaching.
Something else worth noting is that it is a duo-powered automatic feeder and this means that you can either connect the feeder directly to the mains or use batteries. This is handy for two reasons, you can still use it if you don’t place it close to a plug socket but it will also work as a backup if there was a power cut. I also noticed that the feeder dispenses scheduled meals even when the Wi-Fi connection is lost and with the recent downtime of my virgin media broadband, this is important. It uses 4 D cell batteries (The large round batteries) that you will need to buy separately as they are not included so be sure to have some ready if you choose this model.
Pros
- You can schedule up to twelve meals ahead of time.
- You get notifications when your pet has been fed, food is running low, or the feeder is empty so that you are never caught off-guard.
- The feeder holds over 5.5 litres of food, more than enough for several days of feeding.
- Duo-power options, so you can connect the feeder directly to the mains, run the feeder on battery mode or both.
- It is easy to set up and use via the app.
- You can feed your pet from anywhere.
Cons
- It is relatively expensive, but a worthy investment.
- Not suitable for wet food.
Why do we recommend it?
I think this is one of the best smart pet feeders you will find on the market. It comes with flexible feeding options, for example, the feed now option that allows you to feed your pet outside of the scheduled meals from anywhere. It is a duo-powered feeder so it can be connected to the mains, or be powered using batteries so this could be handy depending on how you want to power it.
We love that the feeder app notifies you of all the important feeding details, such as when your pet has been fed, when the food is running low, or when the feeder is completely empty. This ensures that you are never caught unawares. The only thing I will say is that perhaps the build quality should be a little better for the price. Overall, if you’re looking for a model that is a little more advanced and flexible, this is well worth considering.
Read next: Best automatic treat dispensers
3. PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Feeder
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No products found.The PETLIBRO automatic cat feeder is what I would recommend if the feeder we just reviewed to advanced, too large or simply too expensive. This model sits right between my two previous picks but it does only work with dry food.
With this automatic cat feeder, you can program up to four meals in a day and this allows you flexible portion control so you can set the amount of feeder a day but also the size of the portions too.
It is also very easy to program. In terms of how long it lasts before needing refilling, it holds up to 4 litres of dry food, which is more than enough to last your cat for around 2 weeks.
A feature I do like when the food in the food tank is running low, there is an LED light on the feeder that turns red so that you can refill the food tank. You will also get notified by a blue LED light if there is food stuck in the feeder. They are really thought about all the important features of this model without having to worry about connecting to wifi or a smartphone.
It is a duo-powered automatic cat feeder which means that you are able to either connect the feeder directly to the mains or alternatively make use of the battery option. You can also use both options as a backup to make sure that your cat is fed in the event of a power cut although I have got to admit, doesn’t happen very often in most parts of the UK. This feeder uses 3D cell batteries which have not included.
Now another feature I like is that there is a voice recording option and this allows you to record a feeding call (up to 10 seconds long) for your cat, this is so funny seeing your cats reaction. This way, your cat can hear your voice letting them know it’s mealtime even when you are not home.
The feeder comes with a large feeding bowl to ensure that your kitty does not spill cat food all over the floor.
Pros
- Easy to program and use.
- You can schedule up to four meals a day every day.
- LED light notifications for when you are running out of food or when food gets stuck.
- The feeder features a voice recording option that allows you to record a 10-second feeding call for your cat.
- Duo power options so you can connect the feeder directly to the mains or use batteries as an alternative.
- The food tank can hold up to 4 litres of dry food which provides around 14 days of food depending on your cat’s portion sizes.
Cons
- Sometimes the food can get stuck. (but there is a warning light)
Why do we recommend it?
If you are shopping for an automatic cat feeder with a particular budget in mind, this is a great choice for you. With the PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Feeder, you can schedule up to four meals a day for your furry friend. I also like the voice recording option, you can record a personal feeding call for your cat so that they know when it’s mealtime.
This feeder’s food tank can hold up to 4 litres of dry food and this is enough to last for around 14 days but is obviously dependent on your cat feeding schedule and portions. I also like that there is an LED notification that alerts you when food in the tank is running low. Overall it’s a good affordable option that doesn’t take up to much space and have some great features usually found on more expensive models.
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4. PetSafe Two Meal Automatic Pet Feeder
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This is another automatic cat feeder you will find on the market if you aren’t looking for a very complex cat feeder and a great alternative for those who only need to set the feeding time for a couple of feeding sessions.
It is, quite simply, a two-meal cat feeder that allows you to program up to two meals, for up to four days in advance. The feeder has two separate feeding bowls with tight lids that keep the food fresh.
It is easy to program using a clear LCD and a number system to set the amount of hours before it should open, very simple to set and use. The feeder comes with removable bowls that are easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
Each of the bowls can hold approximately 200g of cat food, allowing you to feed your pet just the right amount of food without any overfeeding. The tight lids ensure that your pet does not tamper with the feeder and eat the food before the scheduled time.
The PetSafe automatic feeder comes with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty for full peace of mind too.
Pros
- It is easy to set up with a clear LCD with just one button for each compartment to set an opening time.
- It comes with removable bowls that are dishwasher safe, making it very easy to clean.
- You can schedule meals for up to four days in advance.
- The lids are tight, which keeps the food fresh and keeps the cats out before it is mealtime.
- It comes with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- You can only program two meals.
Why do we recommend it?
This is a great choice if you are looking for a simple cat feeder you can set up everyday to feed your cat if your not around. It is easy to program with a clear LCD, and you can program meals up to four days in advance. T
The feeding bowls can hold up to 200g of food which allows you a lot of flexibility when it comes to portion sizes. A feeder that easy to clean too as the feeding bowls are removable and dishwasher safe which you might have already noticed I look for in a good cat feeder.
5. SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder
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Now, this feeder is more about only letting one particular cat access the food and keep other cats or dogs out and even little fingers if you have younger toddlers.
If you have different cats with different diet demands in your home, it will be difficult making sure each of your pets sticks to the food you serve for them. If you have a little one or a dog in your house, they might also mess up your cat food. If this sounds familiar to you then you might want to consider an automatic cat feeder that specifically fits the needs of your home. In this case, the SureFeed microchip cat feeder is a perfect choice for you.
The SureFeed automatic cat feeder uses your cat’s microchip or an RFID cat collar to grant access to the food to the only programmed cat. If your cat hasn’t been micro-chipped (although I highly recommend it) don’t worry, this feeder comes with an RFID collar (included in the purchase) to work in the same way.
Also included in the purchase is a double bowl, a normal feeding bowl, and a silicone mat. If you have different cats and need multiple feeders, you can order different silicone mat colours to help differentiate the feeders.
The lid of the feeder is airtight which helps keep the food fresh and clean. As soon as your cat is done feeding, the lid automatically closes. The feeding bowl can hold up to 400ml of food so will allow you a lot of flexibility on the portions and you can serve the precise amount your cat needs.
The training mode closes the lid slowly, which helps suspicious cats get used to the feeder. You don’t want them to be spooked by the automation.
This feeder uses 4 C batteries that can last up to 6 months which isn’t bad and it’s also backed by a 3-year warranty.
Pros
- Only allows access to the programmed cat.
- Comes with a single bowl, double bowl, a silicone mat and an RFID cat collar.
- The bowl can hold up to 400ml of food which allows you flexible portion sizes.
- Long 6-month battery life.
- The training mode closes the lid slowly, perfect for familiarizing your cat with the feeder.
- It comes with a 3-year warranty for full peace of mind.
Cons
- There is a risk of free-feeding since the cat can access the food at any time.
Why do we recommend it?
This cat feeder is ideal if you have multiple pets in your house and you are looking for an automatic cat feeder that is specific to just one of your cats. It’s also great if you have a dog or perhaps children who like to play in the cat’s bowl. Overall depending on your needs, this could be what you’re looking for. Overall a great quality product that solves a lot of problems some people may have.
Buyers’ guide: what makes an automatic cat feeder great?
If you want to get the best automatic cat feeder on the first purchase, you need to know what to look for in one. In this buyer’s guide, we have put together a list of crucial factors to consider if you want to buy the most suitable cat feeder for your feline friend. Here are the most crucial considerations.
How many meals can you schedule?
Different automated cat feeders will allow you to schedule a different number of meals. If need to leave your cat alone for a whole day or an entire weekend alone, you want to make sure you buy a feeder that will keep your feline well-fed for that length of time.
In this guide, we have listed cat feeders that will allow you to schedule over 10 meals, which allow you a lot of flexibility with the portions.
If you don’t leave your cat alone for that long, on the other hand, and you just need to serve them breakfast on time, so they don’t come to wake you up, a single meal or 2-meal feeder will serve you just fine.
How easy is it to use?
Some cat feeders only require you to manually fill them and set the timer when others are a little bit more technologically advanced. While the manual automatic cat feeders are easier to use if you don’t do well with technology, app cat feeders allow you a lot more flexibility and are easy to master. It’s a matter of your preference.
Cost
When shopping for an automatic cat feeder, you want to make sure you buy one that’s within your allocated budget. While this is important, don’t concentrate a lot on the price and compromise on other important features.
Power options
Whatever cat feeder you choose, you want to make sure your cat will always be fed. This is why it’s advantageous to buy a cat feeder with a battery backup option if you’re buying one that’s connected directly to the mains. This way, if there is no power, your feline will still be fed.
My final conclusion,
Automatic cat feeders ensure your feline friend is fed even when you’re out and about taking care of your business. I have listed what I think are 5 of the best models you will find on the market currently depending on you and your cat’s feeding requirements.
Our Best Pick, the Cat mate C500 automatic cat feeder is a perfect place to start your search. It is a battery-operated cat feeder with 5 food compartments that allows you to schedule up to 4 meals on it. The fifth compartment is always left open so that your feline knows where to find food.
It uses 3 AA batteries that last for up to a year. The lid is tight, and you can’t be able to get to the food before time. It’s also easy to clean as the lid and the feeding bowl are dishwasher safe. To keep the food fresh for longer, the feeder comes with two ice packs underneath the feeder. This feeder allows you to serve both dry and wet food which may be a big advantage.
Our Runner-up the PetSafe smart feed Automatic cat feeder is an ideal option if you are looking for a more advanced option. It’s operated via a mobile app that allows you to feed your cat from anywhere. It has a food tank that holds over 5.5 liters of dry food, and you can schedule over 10 meals but the whole feeder is fairly large so do check you have enough space where you plan to put it.
With the feed now option, you can feed your cat at any time outside the set schedule, which is handy when you’re running late, and you need to give your cat a snack.
