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Table of Contents
24 Pet Feeders Put to the Test
By Andrew Whalen and Anna Mejorada, Pet Feeder Experts
Anna Mejorada is a seasoned commerce editor at The Animal KIngdom , with a passion for testing products alongside her trusty sidekick, Gidget the Pomeranian
Ensuring your cat's mealtimes run smoothly is effortless with an automatic feeder, perfect for busy owners or travelers. These convenient devices allow you to conveniently feed your cat while away, with precise portions for dietary needs. Enjoy stress-free mornings, as your cat learns to wait for breakfast by the feeder, rather than waking you up.
We rigorously evaluated 24 models for reliability, portion accuracy, and user-friendly features. Our comprehensive testing process assessed timing, portion control, software, and more. After months of testing, we think the best feeder for most cats is the PETLIBRO AIR WiFi Feeder. This top pick excels with its long battery life and user-friendly app, making it an ideal choice for cat owners seeking a hassle-free feeding solution.
Editor's Favorites
No 1. Top Choice
No 2 . Premium Pick
No 3 .Affordable Favorite
No 4 .Budget Alternative
No 5 .High-Capacity Option
No 6. On-the-Go Feeder
No 7 . Multi-Cat Solution
No 8 . Wet Food Expert
No 9 . Dog-Proof Feeder
No 10 . Long-Lasting Battery
No 1. Top Choice:
What We Love:
- Remarkably long-lasting battery power
- Intuitive and feature-rich mobile app
- Convenient USB-C charging with included wall adapter
- Seamless multi-device and user synchronization
What We Don’t Love:
- Limited storage capacity, a potential drawback
Extended battery recharge time of 8 hours, a notable inconvenience
The PETLIBRO AIR WiFi Feeder offers a perfect blend of reliability, affordability, smart features, and user-friendliness, making it stand out from other automatic cat feeders we tested. Its Wi-Fi version boasts an impressive 5200mAh lithium-ion battery, providing power for 30 days on a single 8-hour charge, with battery life often exceeding expectations. The compact and wireless design allows for effortless placement and relocation, while its rounded shape prevents tipping. Even our most persistent test cat couldn't knock it over.
Programming is done via the app, where you can customize portions (1/24 cup each), schedule up to ten meals, and easily toggle existing schedules. The app is simple, intuitive, and ad-free, with features like feeding logs and multi-machine/user syncing. Notifications remind you to refill the 2-liter food reservoir or recharge the battery.
The PETLIBRO AIR WiFi Feeder accommodates kibble sizes 2-15 millimeters and comes with a washable metal dish. While it lacks advanced features like photo-taking or voice recording, it provides a dependable and basic feeding solution with wireless notifications. Maximum Capacity: About 8.5 cups | Dimensions: 12.2 x 10.4 x 7.1 inches | Weight: 2.86 pounds | Food Type: Dry | Power Source: 5200mAh lithium-ion battery | Mobile App: Yes
No 2 . Premium Pick
What We Love:
- Useful app and notifications
- 24-hour back-up battery
- Chew-resistant power cable
- Robust settings
- Easy to use interface
What We Don’t Love:
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Plastic serving bowl instead of metal or glass
- Takes up a lot of space
After extensive testing, the Whisker Feeder-Robot remains the most impressive automatic cat feeder we've encountered. Its adaptability, intuitive feeding options, and exceptional app functionality make it a standout. Although it excels in features, effectiveness, timer accuracy, and portion control, its high price and large size may deter some cat owners.
The Feeder-Robot's design is both futuristic and friendly, but its substantial size requires consideration. Despite its dimensions, it tapers to a 9 x 11.25-inch footprint, making it stable and resistant to toppling. Setup is effortless, taking around 15 minutes, including downloading and syncing the app.
The Feeder-Robot offers precise meal scheduling and serving increments, with a robust settings menu allowing up to eight daily servings. Two dispensers are included, providing flexible portion control options. The "gravity mode" ensures the bowl remains full without overfeeding.
The reservoir holds up to 32 cups of dry food, with an included Hopper Insert for non-standard kibble. App notifications keep you informed, and the backup battery ensures continued operation during power outages.
While we appreciated the Feeder-Robot's features, we were less impressed with the included plastic bowl, which is not dishwasher-safe and may cause skin allergies. A glass bowl is available separately, adding to the overall cost.
The Whisker Feeder-Robot is available in four color combinations, with a 90-day in-home trial and 18-month warranty. Free shipping is offered for customers in the contiguous United States.
Maximum Capacity: 32 cups | Dimensions: 15 x 12.5 x 13 inches | Weight: 9 pounds | Food Type: Dry | Power Source: Plug and backup battery | Mobile App: Yes
No 3 .Affordable Favorite
What We Love:
- Program up to six timers for food dispensing
- Power cord and backup batteries included
- Control buttons hidden behind panel, making it impossible for paws to change settings
- Press-to-release lid seals tightly to preserve the freshness and conceal scent of cat food
- Rotor design prevents pests from entering the food tank
What We Don’t Love:
- No screen indicator to confirm timers are set up as intended
- No Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile device app, or voice recording capability
The PETLIBRO Air Automatic Pet Feeder is a reliable and feature-rich timer feeder, but it lacks the convenient app that makes its WiFi counterpart our top choice. Instead, it comes with a USB-C plug and backup batteries for continuous operation. The device features a battery life indicator and can hold up to seven cups of kibble. We tested it in our lab and found it to be efficient, with a manual feeding button that allows for larger servings. The feeder has six programmable timers and can dispense up to 16 portions at once, but lacks a timer confirmation indicator.
The feeder is easy to assemble and clean, with a stainless steel bowl and plastic tray. It also features a rotating barrier to prevent pests from accessing the food tank and a press-to-release lid for freshness preservation. Although it doesn't connect to Wi-Fi or have a mobile app, the buttons are user-friendly and concealed to prevent tampering.
Maximum Capacity: 2 liters (~8 cups) or 6 liters (~25 cups) | Dimensions: 10.4 x 7.1 x 12.2 inches (2 liters), 9.5 x 7.7 x 14.2 inches (6 liters) | Weight: 2.9 pounds (2 liters), 3.9 (6 liters) | Food Type: Dry | Power Source: Plug-in and three D-cell batteries | Mobile App: No
No 4 .Budget Alternative
What We Love:
- Reliable battery backup for uninterrupted operation
- Convenient slot for food desiccant bag to maintain freshness
- Exceptional value for a fully featured automatic feeder
- Variety of models to suit specific needs and preferences
What We Don’t Love:
- Plastic bowl could be replaced with a more durable material
- Power adapter can be finicky to connect, requiring patience
- Ongoing expense of desiccant refills adds to overall cost
The PETLIBRO Automatic Pet Feeder is a reliable and convenient option with various configurations at an affordable price. It features a power adapter, battery backup, and LCD screen for easy programming. You can record a message to call your cat for meals and use the desiccant bag slot to keep kibble dry. However, the desiccant refills may not be necessary unless you live in a humid climate.
The feeder allows for up to four daily feedings with customizable portion sizes, but lacks flexibility for different schedules on weekends. The 24-hour clock eliminates ambiguity, but takes some getting used to. Our testers found the food reservoir tricky to open and clean, and the feeder was knocked over during stability testing.
Despite some drawbacks, the PETLIBRO remains an excellent feeder, especially for the price. We also recommend the Wi-Fi enabled version with a stainless steel bowl and app connectivity.
No 5 .High-Capacity Option
What We Love:
- The feeder’s sleek and modern design, which can hold up to 7 pounds of cat food (less than 30 cups)
- How easy it is to clean the internal basket and serving bowl, making maintenance a breeze
- The pet-proof programming buttons, which prevent curious pets from accessing the settings
- The option to record a personalized voice message to play during scheduled feedings, adding a touch of warmth and comfort for your pet
What We Don’t Love:
- That larger kibble sizes (such as dog food) may not dispense as easily
- The initial programming process, which can be tedious and time-consuming (though subsequent changes are simpler)
The Wopet Automatic Pet Feeder boasts a spacious 7-pound capacity, perfect for pets with hearty appetites. Its slim design ensures a clutter-free space, while the quick assembly process makes setup a breeze. However, programming feedings requires a bit of patience, involving multiple steps and manual adjustments. But don't worry, once you get the hang of it, customizing feedings becomes a cinch!
This feeder also features a convenient manual feeding option and a secure keypad to prevent curious pets from tampering with the schedule. Plus, its sturdy build and easy-to-clean design make maintenance a snap. And for added peace of mind, the Wopet feeder comes with dual power sources and a voice recording feature.
In our tests, smaller kibble sizes worked best, so keep that in mind if your pet prefers bulkier food. Overall, the Wopet Automatic Pet Feeder is a reliable and feature-rich option for pet owners.
No 6. On-the-Go Feeder
What We Love:
- The versatility of this automatic feeder, compatible with both wet and dry cat food
- The option to add ice packs, keeping your cat’s meals fresh for hours
- The lightweight and portable design, making it easy to move around
- The straightforward functionality, with no complicated settings or programming required
- The convenience of battery power, eliminating the need to hide a power cord
What We Don’t Love:
- The timer’s lack of precision compared to other automatic feeders on our list
The Cat Mate C200 2 Meal Automatic Cat Feeder is a reliable and lightweight option for maintaining your cat's feeding schedule while traveling. It features two compartments that can hold up to 1.5 cups of wet or dry food each, and operates on a single AA battery. The feeder also has a spot for ice packs to keep perishable items fresh.
Setup is quick and easy, with most of the feeder assembled right out of the box. The interface is simple, with a knob that allows you to delay the feeder from opening for up to 48 hours. However, the feeder lacks precision, only allowing programming to the hour and not by the minute.
While it may not have supplemental features like Wi-Fi connectivity, this straightforward feeder provides a reliable solution for cat owners on-the-go. Its compact design and battery operation make it easy to use anywhere.
Key Features:
- Holds up to 3 cups of food (1.5 cups per bowl)
- Operates on one AA battery
- Ice pack spot for keeping perishable items fresh
- Simple interface with delay option up to 48 hours
- Lightweight and compact design
No 7 . Multi-Cat Solution
What We Love:
- The durable stainless steel bowls that make cleaning and maintenance a breeze
- How easy it is to program the feeder for customized feeding schedules
- The precise portion controls that allow for tailored feeding
- The reliable battery backup that ensures uninterrupted operation
What We Don’t Love:
- The reliable battery backup that ensures uninterrupted operation
After thorough testing, we recommend the PETLIBRO Granary Automatic Cat Feeder for Two Cats as the top choice for multi-cat households. Its separate stainless steel bowls, intuitive programming, and digital display make it a standout. The feeder's silo design and locking lid keep cats out, while features like battery backup, manual feeding, and voice recording make it convenient for owners.
We previously recommended the WellToBe Automatic Pet Feeder, but our testers preferred the PETLIBRO Granary due to its ease of use and design. The Granary allows for up to ten meals per day, adjustable portion control, and a maximum meal serving of over four cups. The only drawback is the tricky meal splitter adjustment.
Key Features:
- Separate stainless steel bowls for each cat
- Intuitive programming and digital display
- Battery backup and manual feeding options
- Voice recording and desiccant bag compatibility
- Maximum capacity: 5 liters
- Dimensions: 13.6 x 7.5 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 4.4 pounds
No 8 . Wet Food Expert
What We Love:
- The convenient ice packs that keep wet food fresh for a longer period
- The versatility of the feeder, suitable for both wet and dry food
- The ease of cleaning, with dishwasher-safe parts
What We Don’t Love:
- The lack of an outlet plug, requiring batteries as the only power source
The Cat Mate C500 Digital 5 Meal Dog & Cat Feeder is a convenient solution for pet owners who want to schedule mealtimes for their cats. Its rotating, multi-compartment tray allows for easy loading of semi-wet or wet food, and the included ice packs keep food fresh for up to 24 hours. This feeder is ideal for cat owners who want to:
- Schedule mealtimes to avoid early morning wake-ups
- Provide a serving of food when working late
- Manage their cat's feeding schedule with ease
The Cat Mate C500 features:
- Up to 5 scheduled mealtimes
- 1.25 cups of food per compartment
- Straightforward programming
- Dishwasher-safe top cover and food tray
- Maximum capacity: 1.7 liters
- Dimensions: 12.2 x 11.89 x 3.7 inches
- Weight: 14.8 ounces
No 9 . Dog-Proof Feeder
What We Love:
- The effortless programming process
- The included microchips and RFID tag for seamless functionality
- The innovative training function that acclimates your cat to the feeder
- The futuristic design that resembles a space-age feeding station
- The convenient split bowl feature
What We Don’t Love:
- The use of a plastic bowl instead of a more durable material
- The lack of an outlet plug, requiring battery power only
- The absence of a useful accessory that would enhance the overall experience
The SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder is a unique and innovative solution for pet owners with multiple cats on different diets. Instead of scheduling feeding times, it restricts access to specific cats using microchip or RFID tag identification. This ensures that each cat only receives their designated food, making it ideal for households with cats on special diets.
Key Features:
- Microchip and RFID tag identification for secure access
- Suitable for multiple cats (up to 32) with different dietary needs
- Smooth, futuristic sliding door for easy access
- Easy setup and programming (less than 5 minutes)
- Compatible with wet and dry food
- Split bowl for serving two separate portions
- Covered design protects food from flies and keeps wet food fresh
Minor Drawbacks:
- Small bowl capacity (not suitable for multi-day feeding)
- Battery-powered only (4 C cell batteries with 6-month life)
- Open back design (optional rear cover available for purchase)
No 10 . Long-Lasting Battery
What We Love:
- The effortless programming process that makes setup a breeze
- The secure locking lid that keeps curious pets out
- The impressive 9-month battery life that minimizes maintenance
- The convenience of dishwasher-safe major components for easy cleaning
What We Don’t Love:
- The use of a plastic bowl, which may not be as durable as other materials
- The limited programming options, which may not accommodate complex feeding schedules
The PetSafe Six Meal Feeder relies solely on battery power, utilizing 4 D-cell batteries for operation. While we typically prefer automatic cat feeders with both wall outlet and battery backup capabilities, the added flexibility of a battery-powered device is undeniable. This allows the PetSafe Six Meal Feeder to be placed anywhere, providing maximum convenience. With a battery life of up to 9 months, the risk of power loss during trips is minimal, especially with fresh batteries.
The PetSafe automatic feeder may not be the most feature-rich option, but its combination of easy programming, useful features, and tactile buttons makes it a sturdy, reliable choice. Programming feedings is straightforward, with up to six daily feeding times and a separate button for immediate feeding. Portions are customizable up to one cup per meal. However, this simplicity may not accommodate complex meal plans, such as varying daily feeding times.
Testers praised the PetSafe Six Meal Feeder for its ease of use and no-frills design, although some kibble remained after feedings and occasionally stuck, causing minor issues. Despite this, the feeder performed reliably in scheduled operation tests. Overall, the PetSafe Six Meal Feeder is a solid choice for basic feeding needs, with easy cleaning and maintenance due to its dishwasher-safe BPA-free bowl and food carousel.
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the PETLIBRO Air Wi-Fi Feeder, offering affordability, compact design, and a useful app for scheduling feedings and notifications. We also recommend the PETLIBRO AIR Automatic Pet Feeder as a budget-friendly option and the Whisker Feeder-Robot for its precise programming and user-friendly app.
How We Tested
The Animal Kingdom tested 24 automatic cat feeders in our lab and real homes, evaluating setup, programming, and performance. Our testers assessed design, features, and ease of use, providing ratings and feedback.
What to Look for
When choosing an automatic cat feeder, consider: – Size: capacity and footprint – Features: battery backup, stainless steel bowls, clear reservoirs, and programming options – Ease of use: intuitive interface and helpful information displays
FAQ –
How do automatic cat feeders work? They hold and distribute food at set times, using timers and doors or rotating trays. – Can multiple cats share a feeder? It’s possible but may lead to feeding issues; consider separate feeders or models with multiple bowls. – How much food can an automatic cat feeder hold? Capacities vary; we provide maximum capacity for each recommended feeder.
Why Trust The Animal Kingdom?
Our team, including experienced pet owners and a veterinary technician, thoroughly researches and tests products to provide expert recommendations.
