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Best Automatic Cat Feeders 2020 – Buyer’s Guide

by David Harris | Last Updated: July 2, 2020

Best Automatic Cat FeedersAn automatic cat feeder allows you to program feedings in advance for your pet. This tool is so helpful for working pet parents or if you have an unexpected emergency that keeps you away from home during dinner time.

The pet feeding system can also be used to dogs, chickens, and many other animals.

With the sheer number of automatic pet feeders entering the market on a daily basis, finding the best automatic cat feeder can be downright difficult.

We tested the top ten automatic pet feeders and rated them on the most important points. We have also crafted a helpful buyer’s guide to delve deeper into which features are necessary and which are overkill. Let’s get started!

BEST CHOICE

PetSafe Smart Feed review

PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder
Best Automatic Cat Feeder in Our Rating

  • The feeder is equipped with portion control sensors, you can adjust the amount of your pet food
  • If the house hasn’t Wi-Fi, the device works on batteries
  • A special app for your smartphone will help you create an individual nutrition program for your pet
  • The feeder is protected from mechanical impact and curiosity of shaggy paws

Read Verified Customer Reviews

Selecting the Best Automatic Cat Feeders in March, 2023

ProductDimensionsWeightBrand 
(Editor’s Choice)
Smart Automatic Cat Feeder

20.3 x 9.4 x 12.6 inches

5.65 pounds

PetSafe

Check Price
Microchip Pet Feeder
12.6 x 9.1 x 7.9 inches

2.2 pounds

SureFlap

Check Price
(Editor’s Choice)
Healthy Pet Simply Feed

18.5 x 8.7 x 12.4 inches

4.61 pounds

PetSafe

Check Price
Pet Feedster USA PF-10
13.8 x 17 x 15 inches

9.5 pounds

Pet Feedster

Check Price
WOpet 7L Pet Feeder
13.7 x 9.8 x 15.3 inches

6 pounds

WOpet

Check Price
Cat Mate C3000
8.3 x 8.3 x 14.5 inches

3.5 pounds

Cat Mate

Check Price
WESTLINK 6L Food Dispenser
14.2 x 8.3 x 14.2 inches

6 pounds

WESTLINK

Check Price
Six Meal Pet Feeder
15.7 x 9.6 x 6.4 inches

2.85 pounds

PetSafe

Check Price
WOpet Automatic Pet Feeder
10.4 x 3 x 9 inches

2.29 pounds

WOpet

Check Price
PetSafe 5-Meal Pet Feeder
15 x 5 x 18 inches

3.28 pounds

PetSafe

Check Price

1. PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder : Best Automatic Pet Feeding System That Works with Your Smartphone

PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder ReviewThe PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder allows you to have total control of feeding time. You can program feedings on a schedule by downloading and using the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder app which runs on both iPhones and Android phones as well as other devices such as an iPad.

Our testing team members were thrilled to be able to program feeding schedules while at work, running errands, or anywhere as long as they had access to their phone.

In addition to pre-programmed meal times, the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder’s easy to use app allows pet parents to select the “Feed Now” function. Your pet will receive a personalized portion of their favorite food.

You can tailor portion sizes from 1/8 of a cup up to 4 cups. There is also a slow feed function that slowly dispenses your pet’s dinner over a 15-minute time period to help cats and dogs slow down while eating to prevent upset tummies or choking.

Pros
  • Super straightforward to install, program, and use thanks to an easy to navigate app that works on iPhones, Android, and other smart tech devices
  • Includes a backup battery in case of a power outage
  • Allows you to customize portion sizes or slow feeding modes
  • Simple to set up and clean
Cons
  • Expensive but the fact that it works autonomously even after a power outage makes up for the cost

2. SureFlap Official SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder : Best for Multiple Cat Homes (with a Greedy Cat or Two)

SureFlap Official Seller, Microchip Pet Feeder ReviewThe SureFlap Official SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder offers a helpful solution for multiple cat homes. One cat is often likely to be a food stealer which can make feeding time a stressful event rather than nice and relaxing.

The SureFlap SureFeed takes the stress out of eating for your favorite felines. The automatic feeding system holds up to 13.5 ounces of dry or wet pet food.

The lid of the feeder forms a tight seal with a neoprene lip when closed to maintain your pet’s food to keep it as fresh as possible.

The feeder opens based on microchipping and works by scanning your pet’s unique microchip so that it only opens for the correct cat and then closes back up when they move away.

Pros
  • Scans your kitty’s microchip to gain access
  • Stops other pets from stealing food
  • Extremely simple to install, program, and use with just one button programming
  • Holds up to 13.5 ounces of dry or wet food
Cons
  • Only opens for a pet based on their microchip, so your pet must be microchipped in order for it to open so that they can eat their food

3. PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder : Best for Bigger Breeds or Multiple Pet Homes

PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed ReviewThe PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder holds an astounding 24 cups of dry pet food. The feeding system also includes a stainless-steel bowl that accommodates up to 5 cups of pet food.

Our testing team loved having a feeder that works well for bigger dogs as well as their cats to use on overnight trips or in case of an emergency.

The PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder Can be pre-programmed to your kitty or pup’s schedule.

You can select up to 12 separate feeding times in addition to an immediate feed mode or a pause feed mode to temporarily halt feedings. Meals can be delivered in differing increments from 1/8 of a cup to 4 cups to tailor the feeding experience to your pet’s needs.

Pros
  • Extremely large food capacity
  • Customized feeding times and tailored portion sizes
  • Pet proof dispenser keeps pets from dipping into their next meal early
  • Easy to program and clean
  • Runs on 4 D-cell alkaline batteries or a power adapter is available for purchase separately
Cons
  • This was one of our favorite automatic feeding options with no downsides to speak of

4. Pet Feedster USA PF-10 CAT Pet Feedster Automated Pet Feeder : Best All Around Automatic Pet Feeding System

Pet Feedster USA PF-10 CAT Pet Feedster Automated Pet Feeder ReviewThe Pet Feedster USA PF-10 CAT Pet Feedster Automated Pet Feeder earned top marks from our testing team this week! This option features a meal confirmation that lets you know that your pet has been fed. The system also has taken precautions against jamming as well as ants to keep food fresh and pest-free.

The Pet Feedster USA PF-10 CAT Pet Feedster Automated Pet Feeder includes a backup battery in case of power outages to ensure your favorite feline has a full belly.

You are able to program the feeding system to dispense anywhere between a single teaspoon of kibble up to 6 cups of dry food.

The system is powered by an adapter and also includes a backup battery that runs of six D-cell batteries. Overall, we love using Pet Feedster and we are sure you will too.

Pros
  • Highest level of customization available
  • Back up battery system in case of power failure
  • Very versatile and easy to program
  • Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
  • The Pet Feedster Automated Pet Feeder was our hands down favorite option with no bad qualities to mention

5. WOpet 7L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser : Most Aesthetically Pleasing Automatic Pet Feeder

WOpet 7L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser ReviewThe WOpet 7L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser is a lovely option that combines beauty and function. The feeder can be programmed to provide nutrition to pets up to four times each day. Each meal can be personalized to your pet’s pallet by providing between 2 teaspoons and 4.5 cups at one time.

The WOpet 7L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser understands how much we love our cats and dogs. You can record a special message for your furry kiddos to get your pups and kitties excited for meal time.

You can easily store up to 20 cups of pet kibble in the feeding system in its super-sized storage compartment making it an attractive and smart purchase.

Pros
  • Very attractive design will not detract from your current decor
  • Holds up to 20 cups of pet food
  • Allows you to record a message for your pet to listen to at feeding times
  • Great price point
Cons
  • The instruction manual is a tad bit confusing

6. Cat Mate C3000 Automatic Dry Food Pet Feeder : Moderately Priced Automatic Pet Feeding System

Cat Mate C3000 Automatic Dry Food Pet Feeder ReviewThe Cat Mate C3000 Automatic Dry Food Pet Feeder allows users to set up three daily meals for your cat. Our testing team loved using this feeder for kittens. The feeder can dispense just a tablespoon of food at one time, making it perfect for kittens.

The Cat Mate C3000 Automatic Dry Food Pet Feeder is dishwasher safe making it a terrific choice for busy pet parents. On the downside, this feeding system makes louder noises than some of the others we tested.

The noises were extremely upsetting to some of our testing team member’s pets. If your pet is scared by loud noises, we recommend selecting a different version from our reviews this week.

Additionally, if the unit loses power even for just a moment you will need to reprogram it entirely which was a deal breaker for several of our testing team members.

Pros
  • Easy to clean in the dishwasher
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Easy to use and program
  • Can dispense smaller amounts making it great for kittens and puppies
Cons
  • Loud noises at feeding times may be a deal breaker for pets that are frightened by sounds
  • If the feeding system loses power- even for just a few seconds, you will need to reprogram it entirely before using again which is pretty annoying, to be honest

7. WESTLINK 6L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser : Best Budget Priced Automatic Pet Feeding System Selection

WESTLINK 6L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser ReviewThe WESTLINK 6L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser holds an impressive 6 liters of food. You can program the feeding system to deliver meals to your fur babies up to 4 times daily.

Each meal has the propensity to deliver between one and thirty-nine portions with each portion measuring between 10 to 12 grams.

The WESTLINK 6L Automatic Pet Feeder Food Dispenser includes a speaker and microphone that you can sue to record a fun message for your pets.

Our testing team members loved being able to say hi or let their pet know it was meal time in their own words. This feature is helpful for pets that suffer from separation anxiety as well.

Pros
  • Inexpensive price point• Holds 6 liters of food that can be dished out up to four times daily
  • Built in speaker and microphone allows you to give your cat or dog a sweet message to listen to at dinner time
  • An excellent option for pet parents on a budget with anxious pets
Cons
  • We love using this pet feeder and have no bad qualities to list other than you may need to measure your pet’s kibble since the size can’t be larger than 1 cm by 1 cm as they may get stuck

8. PetSafe Six Meal Automatic Pet Feeder : Best for Families with Curious Kitties

PetSafe Six Meal Automatic Pet Feeder ReviewThe PetSafe Six Meal Automatic Pet Feeder understands that cats are by their very nature extremely curious creatures. The lid and food dispenser of the PetSafe Feeder is pet proof.

It will prevent your cat or pup from breaking into the lid to gain access to extra kibble.

The PetSafe Six Meal Automatic Pet Feeder was an absolute hit with our testing team members with destructive pets.

While other versions can be easy for a bored pet to get into, this one truly is curious cat proof. It is also extremely easy to program and clean. Both the removable bowl and carousel are entirely dish washer safe to make cleaning a breeze.

Pros
  • Keeps curious kitties out with a pet proof lid
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Moderate price point
  • Built in digital clock is easy to read
  • Runs on four D-cell batteries
Cons
  • We wish that the feeder would run longer on a set of batteries

9. WOpet Automatic Pet Feeder with Ice Pack : Best Option for Use with Wet Food

WOpet Automatic Pet Feeder ReviewThe WOpet Automatic Pet Feeder with Ice Pack offers a way to safely feed wet food to cats without worrying about spoilage. This option from WOpet includes an ice pack that keeps wet food fresh.

Just place the ice pack in the appropriate area and set the timer for your pet to receive their meal.

The WOpet Automatic Pet Feeder with Ice Pack has two separate food housing areas, so you can plan for two meals.

The feeding system is able to be pried open by highly motivated cats and dogs on the downside. One member of our testing team also noticed that the included ice packs did not actually keep the wet food that fresh.

Pros
  • Good option for pets that like wet food
  • Works on a timer system• Includes ice pack to keep wet food fresh
  • Two-in-one bowl system
Cons
  • Curious cats and dogs can break into the feeding system quite easily
  • The included ice packs aren’t that effective

10. PetSafe 5-Meal Pet Feeder : Easiest Automatic Cat Feeding System to Program

PetSafe 5-Meal Pet Feeder ReviewThe PetSafe 5-Meal Pet Feeder makes heading to work easier since you will be sure that your cat will be fed and happy when you return.

The feeding system dispenses up to four pre-portioned meals daily.

Each tray slot in the feeding system holds up to one cup of dry pet food so that you can control portion sizes.

The PetSafe 5-Meal Pet Feeder has a very easy to read screen. The built-in digital clock and LCD display feature large numbers that take the guesswork away from feeding times. It’s also simple to clean and can also hold semi-wet food for picky pets.

Pros
  • Easiest digital LCD screen to read and use
  • Holds dry or semi-wet food for cats or dogs• Up to four meals dispensed daily
  • Easy to maintain and clean
  • Moderate price point
Cons
  • Runs on batteries but we wish it included a USB cable or traditional power adapter

Best Automatic Cat Feeder – Buyer’s Guide

Any pet owner can tell you that feeding time is an important time for any pet. An automatic pet feeding system takes the guesswork out of ensuring your cat receives the correct amount of food. The feeder will store and dispense your pet’s kibble on a pre-programmed schedule that you have set so that your pet can eat even when you are not home.

With so many versions of automatic pet feeders available, finding the right one for you and your pet’s needs can be an arduous task. As a result, we tested the top ten automatic cat feeders and learned a ton of helpful information. We want to pass this knowledge to you, so you can pick the best option. Let’s get started!

Why Do I Need an Automatic Pet Feeding System?

Having a pet cat is an extremely rewarding and loving experience. Part of owning a pet is that you must ensure they have access to fresh water and food. Cats can get quite upset if their feeding schedule is disrupted. Unfortunately, we all face certain situations that can make feeding the cat difficult.

Maybe you were held up at work. Or perhaps you have had a family emergency that has required you to leave your cat home alone. An automatic feeder will keep your feline’s belly full even when you aren’t home.

Additionally, if your feline or canine buddies are early risers, an automatic feeder can deliver their breakfast, allowing you to catch some extra shut eye. This option is also great for pet parents who work overnight shifts or even for those that work long shifts such as nurses. We also love using an automatic feeder for pets that have weight problems since each meal is perfectly portioned.

Key Considerations for an Automatic Pet Feeding System

Let’s take a closer look at the most important features and considerations for an automatic feeder for your cat or dog.

Capacity

Capacity is a top priority in finding the best feeder for you and your fuzzy friends. If you have multiple cats, select a feeder that holds extra portions. You will also need to think about whether you want to use dry kibble, semi-wet food, or wet food. Wet food can be difficult to use as it needs to be kept cool to stay fresh.

Selective or Microchip Feeders

A selective feeder relies on the identification of your pet’s microchip. When the correct chip is read, the feeder delivers the portion of food. This is a perfect solution for pets on a special diet or that are shy eaters and need to eat away from the other pets.

Voice Recording

Some automatic pet feeding systems include voice recording capabilities. This feature allows you to record a message for your et that will be played at feeding times. We love this idea for pets with separation anxiety.

The purchase and use of an automatic cat or dog feeding system can be extremely helpful. An automatic feeder can dispense meals when you are at work. They are also extremely handy in case of a last minute overnight trip or if you are stuck at work past dinner time.

We hope that you enjoyed reading our top ten automatic pet feeding system reviews and that our shopping guide was helpful as well! We love hearing back from our loyal readers. Don’t forget to drop us a quick line below with your top automatic pet feeding systems and any tips for using them.

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Comments

  1. AvatarKate says

    May 6, 2019 at 2:56 am

    Automatic cat feeders are the best inventions for cats, really. Now I’m not afraid that my cat will eat too much and become fat. But, of course, choosing a safe option which is hard to be destroyed isn’t an easy task. I hope that your guide will help me to make the right purchase.

    Reply
  2. AvatarCamdyn says

    May 28, 2019 at 6:13 am

    PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder isn’t in the first place without the reason. It’s the most convenient option that I’ve ever had if we speak about cleaning. Also, it works autonomously, which makes it one of the best product on the market.

    Reply
  3. AvatarRaphael says

    August 11, 2019 at 3:34 am

    Automatic cat feeders are great for controlling how much your cat eats. But it always happens when a cat understands the system and brokes it. So now I have one more feeder broken and don’t know what to do with it.

    Reply
  4. AvatarZoey says

    September 2, 2019 at 10:24 am

    I find cat feeders really helpful as I always want to put my cat more food as I love her so much. But now all food is measured, and the feeder isn’t destroyed by the cat. Bingo!

    Reply
  5. AvatarPo says

    October 4, 2019 at 3:25 am

    I always had problems with feeding my cat, because she’s always hungry and asks for more. And I can’t say no. That’s why I bought an automatic feeder – Healthy Pet Simply Feed. And it’s a great product that I recommend to everyone.

    Reply
  6. AvatarKooper says

    November 7, 2019 at 6:38 am

    The PetSafe Six Meal Automatic Pet Feeder is the best deal. I would even like that for myself! This feeder works without interruptions, it is very easy to monitor the nutrition of the cat.

    Reply
  7. AvatarRebecca says

    November 29, 2019 at 5:02 am

    It happens that sometimes I am at work for 24 hours, and I have to ask the neighbors to feed my cat. fortunately, my problem will be solved very soon, I found a solution by ordering The PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Cat and Dog Feder. This is ideal for me and my pet

    Reply
  8. AvatarLily says

    December 8, 2019 at 8:38 am

    Until recently, I had a problem how to get up at 5 a.m. and feed my hungry cat. The fact is, it’s very difficult for me to get up so early in the morning. But the problem was solved when I bought the Pet Feedster USA PF-10 CAT. I just set the feeding time and sleep peacefully)

    Reply
  9. AvatarSydney says

    December 29, 2019 at 7:11 am

    Petsafe provide cool products! There is also a slow dispense mode on the feedings, but it can’t work if you choose the smallest setting which is 1/8 cup. Once you see how the conveyor works, you’ll understand why it can’t work on the smallest setting.

    Reply
  10. AvatarLogan says

    January 5, 2020 at 10:07 am

    Petsafe works great, and I cannot recommend this enough! My cats throw up if they eat too much, so it is great being able to feed them very small amounts (1/8 cup) per feeding, up to 12 times per day.

    Reply
  11. AvatarAda says

    January 28, 2020 at 2:47 pm

    Tips: It was no biggie to set up the Healthy Pet Simply Feed if you read the instructions first (otherwise just take out the batteries to start over if you find yourself trapped).

    Reply
  12. AvatarLeonard says

    February 6, 2020 at 3:48 pm

    Cat Mate C3000 is an excellent feeder, we were going on holiday for 2 weeks and didn’t want to put our cat in a cattery so it was an ideal solution – obviously, we had someone pop in and check on him every couple, of days as you never want to leave them souly on their own!

    Reply
  13. AvatarChristopher says

    April 2, 2020 at 3:36 am

    Bought WOpet Automatic Pet Feeder after browsing through loads of different options and reading a lot of mixed reviews. Our cat is always ravenous and we were concerned he’d be able to break in early, but he had no such success.

    Reply
  14. AvatarMonika says

    April 28, 2020 at 12:43 pm

    Agreed about WOpet Automatic Pet Feeder. Once you’ve inserted the battery you can check that the timer is working by listening for the ticking noise. We tend to take the battery out when out of use. But I think it cannot be dangerous)

    Reply
  15. AvatarMandy says

    May 5, 2020 at 11:46 am

    I use WOpet for my cat but can be used with dogs. The portion sizes are big, i use 1 for my cat. Portion size goes up to 39 i believe. Good product!

    Reply
  16. AvatarPatric says

    June 2, 2020 at 4:32 pm

    I ordered WOpet automatic pet feeder for my cat, as I am travelling constantly for 2 days and there is no one to feed her at certain time. This feeder is really a saver for a person who travels a lot or for someone who works long shifts!

    Reply
  17. AvatarNancy says

    July 1, 2020 at 1:58 pm

    Cats are now happily fed at night by digital timer on PetSafe 5-Meal Pet Feeder, and so – wait for it – don’t wake us up!! 😂
    So, with two cats, both very eager to eat, it was really important that the timer on each of their bowls goes off at the same time to avoid competition. But it managed!)

    Reply

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