Best Automatic Pet Feeders
(Updated March 2025)
Tired of early wake-ups from a hungry pet or missing feedings due to a busy schedule? Automatic pet feeders make mealtime hassle-free, ensuring your furry friend gets the right portions at the right times, even when you’re not home.
1
Best Overall
PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder
(Exceptional)
$$
- Wi-Fi enabled control
- App scheduling support
- Customizable meal portions
- Low-food alerts
- Dishwasher-safe components
Why We Love It:
The PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Feeder combines convenience and technology, allowing you to schedule, customize, and control your pet’s meals remotely through an easy-to-use app. With smart alerts and dishwasher-safe parts, it’s designed to simplify feeding while keeping your furry friends happy and healthy.
Suitable For:
- Great For Small cats
- Great for Small Homes
- Great for Large Homes
2
PetLibro SPACE Automatic Pet Feeder
(Outstanding)
$$$
- Compact, modern design
- Built-in portion control
- Easy-to-read LCD screen
- Anti-jam food outlet
- Dual power options
Why We Love It:
The PetLibro SPACE Automatic Feeder blends style with practicality. Its sleek design fits any home, while portion control and anti-jam features ensure stress-free, consistent feeding. Reliable and easy to use, it’s perfect for keeping your pet well-fed and on schedule.
Suitable For:
- Great For Small cats
- Great for Small Homes
- Best for Large Homes
3
CATLINK Multi-Cat Recognition Automatic Feeder
(Outstanding)
$$$$
- Multi-cat facial recognition
- Adjustable portions per cat
- Smart app management
- Real-time feeding updates
- Easy-clean detachable bowl
Why We Love It:
The CATLINK Multi-Cat Feeder is a game-changer for multi-pet households. With facial recognition and personalized portions, every cat gets the meal they need. The connected app adds convenience and keeps you in control, making it ideal for busy pet parents.
Suitable For:
- Great For Small cats
- Best For Large Cats
- Great for Small Homes
- Best for Large Homes
4
PetSnowy SNOW+ Automatic Pet Feeder
(Very Good)
$$
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Sealed food storage
- App-enabled feeding control
- Easy to clean design
- Portion-controlled servings
Why We Love It:
The PetSnowy SNOW+ Feeder combines innovative features like whisper-quiet operation and secure food storage to create a seamless feeding experience. App connectivity and portion control ensure your pet stays fed on time, without disrupting your daily routine.
Suitable For:
- Great For Small cats
- Best For Large Cats
- Great for Small Homes
- Best for Large Homes
5
PetSafe Six Meal Feeder
(Good)
$
- Rotating meal dispenser
- No smartphone necessary
- Holds six pre-portioned meals
- Battery-operated functionality
- Compact and portable
Why We Love It:
The PetSafe Six Meal Feeder is a simple, reliable solution for consistent feeding. With space for six pre-portioned meals and a compact design, it’s perfect for busy days or short trips. Easy cleanup and portability make it a convenient choice for pet owners.
Suitable For:
- Great For Small cats
- Best For Large Cats
- Great for Small Homes
- Best for Large Homes
GUIDE TO
Automatic
Pet Feeders
Feeding Made Effortless
Why Consider an Automatic Pet Feeder?
For pet owners with busy schedules, ensuring their furry friends are fed on time can be challenging. Automatic pet feeders offer a solution by dispensing meals according to a set schedule, ensuring your pet always gets the right portion at the right time. These feeders aren’t just about convenience—they can also help improve your pet’s health by regulating meal portions and supporting special dietary needs.
Whether you’re managing a weight control plan, a multi-pet household, or simply want the freedom to be away from home without worrying about mealtime, automatic feeders are a game-changer. Let’s explore how they work, how to choose the best one, and the benefits they offer you and your pet.
PROCESS
How Do Automatic Pet Feeders Work?
Setting Up the Schedule
Meal Programming
Most automatic pet feeders come with a control panel or smartphone app where you can program feeding times and portion sizes. This feature allows you to customize the feeding schedule to fit your pet’s specific routine, whether it’s multiple meals a day or a single portion at specific times.
Fresh and Ready to Serve
Storage & Dispensing
The feeder’s storage compartment holds a supply of dry or semi-moist food, which is dispensed into the feeding bowl at the scheduled times. Many models include sealed containers to maintain food freshness and prevent pests.
Feeding from Anywhere
Smart Features (Optional)
Advanced feeders with Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to control and monitor feeding from your smartphone. You can make real-time adjustments, receive notifications, and even dispense extra portions when needed.
Precision in Every Meal
Portion Control & Sensors
Built-in portion control mechanisms ensure that the correct amount of food is dispensed at each meal, helping to prevent overfeeding or underfeeding. Some models also have sensors that detect when the bowl is full or empty, preventing food waste.
HOW TO CHOOSE
Choosing the Right Automatic Pet Feeder
Selecting the perfect feeder depends on your pet’s needs, your lifestyle, and the features you prioritize. Here’s what to consider:
01
Capacity
How Much Food Can It Hold?
If you have a large dog or multiple pets, choose a feeder with a larger storage capacity. For smaller pets or single-feedings, compact feeders with smaller hoppers may be sufficient.
02
Programmability
Flexible Scheduling Options
Look for a feeder that offers multiple programmable meals per day. Advanced options may let you set different portion sizes for each meal, ideal for pets with varied dietary requirements.
03
Connectivity & Smart Features
Wi-Fi Control or Manual Programming?
If you want remote access and real-time updates, choose a feeder with smart features that can be controlled via a smartphone app. For basic needs, a manual programmable feeder may work just fine.
04
Food Compatibility
Dry or Wet Food?
Check the feeder’s compatibility with different types of food. Most feeders are designed for dry kibble, but some models handle semi-moist or freeze-dried food as well.
A Win-Win for Dogs and Their Owners
The Benefits of Automatic Pet Feeders
For Pet Parents:
- Time Savings: No more rushing home to feed your pet or waking up early for breakfast feedings.
- Consistency: Ensures meals are served on time, reducing the risk of overfeeding or missed meals.
- Stress-Free Travel: You can be away from home knowing your pet is still getting fed properly.
For Pets:
- Portion Control: Helps maintain a healthy weight by regulating meal sizes.
- Reduced Anxiety: Pets thrive on routine, and regular meal times promote a sense of security.
- Freshness: Sealed compartments help keep food fresher for longer, ensuring every meal is appetizing.
BENEFITS & CONCERNS
Pros & Cons of Automatic Pet Feeders
PROS
Convenience:
Meals are served automatically, even when you’re not home.
Portion Control:
Prevents overfeeding by dispensing pre-measured portions.
Remote Control:
Smart models allow feeding adjustments from anywhere.
Reduces Pet Stress:
Keeps your pet on a regular feeding schedule.
CONS
Cost:
High-end models with smart features can be expensive.
Power Dependency:
Electric models rely on batteries or outlets and may fail if power is lost.
Limited Wet Food Options:
Most feeders are only compatible with dry food.
Cleaning Maintenance:
Some models can be difficult to clean regularly.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs About Automatic Pet Feeders
Are automatic pet feeders suitable for all pets?
Yes, automatic feeders can be used for dogs and cats of all sizes. However, make sure you choose a model that fits your pet’s portion size and feeding habits.
Do automatic feeders work with wet food?
Most feeders are designed for dry kibble, but a few models offer compartments or refrigerated options for wet food. Be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
How do I clean the feeder?
Many feeders have removable parts that can be cleaned with soap and water. Some models also have dishwasher-safe components for added convenience.
What happens if the power goes out?
Many feeders come with backup battery options, ensuring that your pet’s feeding schedule is not interrupted during power outages.
Can I feed multiple pets with one feeder?
Yes, some feeders come with multiple bowls or splitters, allowing you to feed multiple pets at once. Just make sure the portions are adequate for each pet.
ARTICLES
Latest Blog Posts
By: Jamey Ekins
DATE: March 19, 2025
