Having multiple cats can turn mealtime into quite the juggling act. It’s a familiar scene for feline owners: the constant monitoring, the frequent refilling of bowls, and the classic cat scuffle over whose turn it is to eat. But with the dawn of automatic pet feeders specifically designed for multi-cat households, these issues can be relegated to the past. These nifty gadgets ensure that your fur babies are fed on time, every time, without the usual chaos.
When you’re out shopping for the perfect cat feeder, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. You’ll want to consider the capacity of the feeder, how easy it is to clean, the type of food it can dispense (dry, wet, or both), and how secure it is — after all, you don’t want a feline Houdini breaking in and snacking all day. The best automatic feeders for multiple cats will be robust, reliable, and smart enough to cater to individual dietary requirements.
I’ve scoured the market and tested several products to find the ones that stand up to the unique challenges of feeding multiple cats. This review has been months in the making – I wanted to try each feeder with my own cats for at least two weeks before feeling able to recommend it. From my experience as a veterinarian and a cat owner myself, the right cat feeder not only makes your life easier but also keeps your cats healthier and happier.
Let’s dive in and discover the best automatic cat feeder for multiple cats!
Types of Automatic Cat Feeders
An initial google search for ‘Automatic cat feeder’ brings up an almost overwhelming choice. There are a lot of different types of automatic cat feeders, so what features do you need for your cats based on your individual situation?
There are various different types of automatic feeder on the market, all come with their pros and cons. Let’s cover the most common types of automatic cat feeders:
7 Best Automatic Cat Feeders for Multiple Cats
After trying various cat feeders over the past few months, I’ve compiled a list of the best automatic cat feeders that cater to households with multiple cats. These automatic feeders take the guesswork out of portion control and feeding times, ensuring all my kitties get the right amount of food even when you’re not around. Whether you have playful kittens or adult cats, the selected feeders are designed to keep their bellies full and their whiskers twitching with satisfaction.
To make your decision easier, we’ve scored each product based on Capacity and Portion Control, Ease of Use and Setup, Reliability and Accuracy, Power Source and Backup, Cleaning and Maintenance, Smart Features, Durability and Build Quality and Customer Support and Warranty.
Here are the top picks that will make feeding time a breeze and your life a little less hectic:
See how we scored it
The Feeder-Robot has a maximum capacity of 32 cups and allows meal customization ranging from ¼ to 1 cup, making it ideal for cats at any stage of life.
The setup is incredibly smooth, especially with the iOS app. I found it very user-friendly and straightforward to get started.
The device is precise in dispensing the correct portions at the scheduled times.
It can operate up to 24 hours in power-saving mode and has a built-in backup battery to ensure uninterrupted feeding during power outages, seamlessly switching back to household power when restored.
Maintenance is a breeze, with recommended cleaning once a month. Removable parts are easily hand-washed, making it convenient for users.
It offers app-controlled functionality, meal scheduling, and notifications for low food levels. However, it lacks a signal or sound to call pets at mealtime, which could have been a valuable feature.
The Feeder-Robot features a sleek design, BPA-free plastics, and a chew-resistant power cord, showing a high build quality and durability.
I didn’t have reason to contact customer services so can’t comment on their helpfulness but the product does come with a 1-year warranty.
The Whisker Feeder-Robot is quite the game-changer, especially if you’re managing multiple cats like I am. Having the ability to schedule feeding times and monitor portions straight from my phone is incredibly convenient. Its sturdy build gives me confidence that even my most mischievous cat won’t be breaking into the food supply before mealtime.
Maintenance is a breeze. The unit’s design simplifies the task of cleaning, making the disassembly process for its removable parts straightforward. It’s clear the designers have really put some thought into the needs of a multi-pet household here, accounting for the messier aspects of pet care.
I’m also quite impressed with the commitment to customer satisfaction from Whisker, the same company that’s behind the well-known Litter-Robot. Their customer service has been nothing but helpful, which is a big relief and the product comes with a one-year warranty for that piece of mind.
See how we scored it
The feeder is capable of feeding cats for up to 15-20 days, indicating a decent capacity and has various options for portion sizes.
The app is intuitive but the control panel on the feeder can be hard to get used to at first.
Reliable and accurate portion sizes thanks to infrared technology that prevents the bowl from overfilling.
Offers both battery and mains power. Battery power will kick in if there is a mains outage, but batteries are not included.
Easy to clean due to detachable food bowls and food container.
Includes an app for meal scheduling and an audio recording feature, but is limited to 2.4GHz WiFi.
Made from durable ABS plastic with a stable design, though not as robust as stainless steel models.
No obvious warranty offered and customer service was not tested.
When I introduced the WellToBe Pet Feeder into my home, I noticed some immediate improvements in my cat’s mealtime routine. The dual-bowl design has completely eliminated the mealtime standoffs between my two cats, ensuring they both eat peacefully.
Initially skeptical about the voice recording feature, I was pleasantly surprised at how eagerly my cats responded at each mealtime call. It’s touching to witness, adding a personal touch to what could be a very mechanical process.
While I admire its sleek design and practicality, I cannot overlook the kibble restriction. Monitoring kibble sizes isn’t overly burdensome, but it does require a bit of upfront attention. Overall, the device holds enough cat food to keep my felines well-fed during my weekend getaways.
I must also applaud the easy-to-clean aspect of the WellToBe cat feeder—it’s a breeze to dismantle and wash. If you’ve ever had to scrub and clean a standard pet feeder, you’ll appreciate the simplicity of snapping apart and cleaning this unit.
A concern that you might share is the cleverness of our feline friends. Over time, one of my cats has attempted to outwit the feeder’s mechanism. It’s a bit of a cat-and-mouse game, but as of now, technology retains the upper hand.
Conclusively, the WellToBe Pet Feeder has addressed the bulk of my concerns about feeding multiple cats. It’s become an indispensable ally against the demands of a clockwork feeding schedule and has genuinely eased the stress of time away from home.
See how we scored it
The feeder has a 3-liter capacity, offering precise portion control, allowing 1-50 portions per meal, with each “portion” being around 1 ⅓ tablespoons. This provides flexibility in meal sizing, suitable for various pet needs.
The setup process is straightforward, with minimal assembly required and an easy-to-use app for programming meal times and portions. However, initial app connection may require assistance from customer support.
The Petlibro Granary dispenses meals consistently and accurately at scheduled times, with a jam prevention feature ensuring reliable operation.
It includes a USB-C adapter and allows for battery backup using three D-batteries (not included), ensuring continuous operation during power outages.
The feeder is designed for easy disassembly and cleaning, with a dishwasher-safe stainless steel bowl and hand-washable hopper and lid.
It offers app connectivity for meal programming and features like a voice recording for meal calls, although the speaker’s volume for the recording could be improved.
Constructed from sturdy plastic with a secure, cat-proof design, the feeder is robust enough for daily use.
Online reviews mention effective customer support for troubleshooting, particularly with app connectivity issues, suggesting a positive post-purchase service experience. However, there is no obvious warranty available.
After three weeks of use, it’s clear the PETLIBRO Granary Feeder has streamlined mealtime in my multi-cat home. The setup was a breeze once I got the hang of it, allowing my cats to stick to their feeding schedule, which in turn has them associating mealtime with the feeder rather than pestering me.
With multiple mischievous paws around, I appreciated the automatic feeder’s lock-tight mechanism. My cats couldn’t sneak any extra kibble, and the food stayed as fresh as promised. The built-in desiccant bag is a nice touch, keeping my cat’s food dry and appetizing.
One feature I found particularly endearing was the personalized meal call. Recording my voice reassured my cats when it was time to chow down. The smart infrared detection ensured the feeder didn’t dispense cat food when the feeding area was crowded, preventing overeating and potential blockages. While it may not have all of the smart features of more expensive feeders, it is good value for money.
All in all, the PETLIBRO feeder excels for its intended use. Feeding my beloved cats has never been more straightforward, and I’m pretty sure they’re loving the consistency too. My early reviewers (the cats) give it a resounding purr of approval.
See how we scored it
The Cat Mate C200 is designed to hold two meals, which can be useful for feeding over a short period. Its capacity and control seem suited for short-term use.
The product is easy to use, with a simple 48-hour timer for setting meal times, it’s very user-friendly.
There isn’t detailed feedback on the precision of portion sizes or the reliability over longer periods. Given the basic functionality, I’d cautiously rate it as moderate without specific negatives.
It requires 1 x AA battery, so is not reliant on mains power and thus has inherent backup in case of power outages. The battery can last up to 12 months.
The feeder is highlighted for its easy-clean, dishwasher-proof lids and bowls. Including an ice pack for freshness indicates a consideration for maintenance and hygiene.
This model lacks smart features like app connectivity or remote programming, focusing instead on basic mechanical operation.
The plastic is a little flimsy in parts but overall the feeder is put together well and durable enough for the job.
I didn’t have reason to contact customer services so can’t comment on their helpfulness but the product does come with a 1-year warranty.
After throwing an AA battery into the Cat Mate C200, setting it up was a breeze. Its timer is a straightforward dial, though I did notice it was hard to get the time set precisely. I filled up the two ample-sized bowls with my kitties’ favorite kibble and wet food — a test run before a weekend trip. The little clip for syncing the lids gave me peace of mind that both pets would get their meals together.
The included ice packs are a godsend, truly. They kept the wet food cool for hours, which I’m sure my cats appreciated. Cleanup was just a matter of popping the dishwasher-safe bowls and lids out and letting my machine do the work.
I did miss the sound of a traditional automatic feeder; there was no familiar noise to alert the cats when their food was ready. This meant I had to do a bit of training to get them accustomed to checking the feeder. Another minor gripe is the timer’s precision, which seemed to be slightly off — about half an hour early in my case.
Overall, I got to say, the Cat Mate C200 is a solid choice, especially if you’re feeding more than one cat. It handles the job with ease and can be a real stress-reliever for days when you can’t be home at feeding time.
See how we scored it
The feeder can manage portions effectively, which is especially useful in multi-pet homes where diet control is crucial.
The feeder is easy to program with the ability to remember up to 32 pets, making it highly suitable for homes with multiple pets.
The microchip recognition system ensures that only the designated pet can access the food, providing a reliable solution to food theft among pets.
Operating on 4 C batteries, the feeder has a long battery life, although a plug-in option would have been more ideal.
While the feeder is easy to use and program, cleaning can be somewhat challenging, especially with wet food usage.
The microchip or RFID functionality is a standout smart feature, effectively preventing food theft and ensuring proper diet management. However, it lacks some advanced features like app connectivity.
Made of ABS plastic and designed for ease of use, the feeder is durable, though stainless steel bowls would be an improvement.
The SureFlap SureFeed comes with a three-year warranty, indicating strong manufacturer support for the product.
Ever had to play referee during your cats’ mealtime because one tries to sneak a bite from the other’s bowl? You’re not alone. The SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder has been a game-changer in my hectic, multi-cat home. Here’s the scoop on how it kept the peace during dinner time.
Straight off the bat, I was impressed by its ability to keep my cats’ diets separate. With its personalized microchip recognition, it’s like having a bouncer at the food bowl, only allowing the right cat access. This was a lifesaver, especially since Oliver, my greedy tabby, was always ninja-ing his way to his sister’s cat food.
Monitoring food intake has never been easier. I’m somewhat of a data geek, so the app notifications showing me who ate what, and when, was fascinating. I noticed patterns in my cats’ feeding behaviors, which is invaluable for keeping tabs on their health.
It did take a while for my furry friends to get used to their new robotic feeder friend. Initially, they were hesitant, but once they realized food magically appeared in this new contraption, their instincts kicked in. I found that introducing it gradually worked wonders.
Remember, it’s a bit of an investment. But considering the vet bills it could save you by preventing food-related squabbles or overeating, I’d say it’s worth every penny.
All in all, my experience with the SureFeed has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s not just a fancy gadget; it’s a practical solution for managing the diets of your feline family members.
See how we scored it
The Cat Mate C500’s ability to program up to five feed times and its inclusion of ice packs for keeping wet food fresh indicate good capacity and portion control.
Despite some initial programming confusion and the absence of a “battery low” indicator, its overall user-friendly design scores well.
Generally reliable in dispensing food at programmed times, though minor issues with food getting stuck in tray sections are noted.
The long battery life is a plus, but the lack of a direct power supply option and a battery level indicator are drawbacks.
High marks for dishwasher-safe components and overall ease of cleaning, despite the base needing to be wiped down rather than immersed.
Lacks advanced smart features such as app connectivity, focusing instead on basic functionality like programming feed times and keeping food fresh.
Improved design and fitting lid suggest good durability and quality, suitable for both wet and dry food.
I didn’t have reason to contact customer services so can’t comment on their helpfulness but the product does come with a 3-year warranty.
The Cat Mate C500 is the top pick for an automatic feeder if you feed your cat with wet food. It’s super simple to program with five compartments to serve meals at preset times. Each compartment can hold up to 11.5 ounces of wet food and the included ice packs fit conveniently under the bowls to make sure your cats have fresh food.
I found the cleaning process to be very straightforward too – the lid and bowl pop right off and are dishwasher safe, so it’s a breeze to keep everything hygienic. Plus, it’s a good feeling to know that this automatic feeder keeps my cat’s food secure; they haven’t managed to break into it yet, even with their most cunning efforts.
As for the battery life, it’s quite impressive. I haven’t had to replace the batteries yet, and it’s been months. I’ll occasionally check the indicator, but it doesn’t seem to be a power hog. Oh, and speaking of power, it’s pretty cool that the LCD display shows all the programmed feed times clearly, so I can double-check the meal schedule with a quick glance. This feeder has been a reliable little gadget in making sure my cats stay on their feeding routine.
The motor that powers the feeder is a little noisy which might scare your cats initially but mine quickly learned to associate the sound with dinner time.
See how we scored it
With a 7L capacity that can hold up to 20 cups of food and customizable portion sizes ranging from two teaspoons to 4.5 cups, this feeder offers excellent capacity and portion control.
The feeder features an intuitive control panel and easy programming, including app integration for remote management, making it user-friendly.
Equipped with infrared induction to prevent food overflow and clogging, and the ability to run both on AC power and batteries for redundancy, it’s highly reliable.
It primarily operates plugged in but also supports battery operation for backup, providing flexibility in power sources.
The food compartment and tray are removable and dishwasher-safe, facilitating easy cleaning.
Features such as an HD camera for video and audio interaction, along with app control for feeding management, make it a smart device.
The high-quality construction and quality materials suggest it’s built to last.
The product comes with a 1 year warranty and the manufacturer response to queries is quick.
Feeling like a tech-savvy pet parent, I got the chance to use the WOPET automatic pet feeder and it didn’t disappoint. The setup was a breeze, and loading it with my cats’ favorite kibble was just as straightforward. I was immediately impressed with the smart app control. Being able to adjust feeding times and portions from anywhere gave me a sense of control I didn’t know I needed. Plus, the app notifications assured me that the furballs were fed on schedule.
Using the in-built HD camera was a delightful surprise. The ability to sneak a peek at my cats while they munch away, not to mention the two-way audio, felt like I never left home. Seeing and hearing my pets in crisp clarity was a comforting feature indeed.
The feeder runs on main’s power and does have a convienient battery backup option, despite the nuisance of having to purchase the batteries separately. It’s worth mentioning that the automatic feeder manages to look sleek in the kitchen, and with a 7L capacity, even my two mischief-makers were content with a full belly over a weekend getaway, which the feature bullets rightly boasted. When it came time to record a voice message—a 10-second clip of my voice calling for mealtime—it was simple, and my cats responded to it just like they would if I were actually there!
Overall, my experience with the WOPET automatic feeder left me feeling more connected to my pets even when work kept me late. Sure, there may be potential hiccups with Wi-Fi reliability and the extra step to secure batteries could be a bit of a hassle, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. Highly recommended for fellow multi-cat households!
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Automatic Feeder for Multiple Cats
When selecting the perfect automatic feeder for your multi-cat household, several factors are critical to consider for a harmonious feline feeding experience. Here’s a friendly guide:
By considering each of these factors, you and your furry friends will appreciate the seamless integration of an automatic feeder into your daily routine! Remember, happy cats mean a happy home.
How to Use Automatic Cat Feeders For Multiple Cats
If you’re like me and have more than one furry friend at home, automatic pet feeders can be a blessing, especially when managing different dietary needs. Wondering how to get started? Here’s a quick guide to help you out!
First off, introduce the cat feeder gradually to your cats. Some kitties might be skeptical of new gadgets in their space. I’ve noticed some cats get curious right away while others need a bit of time to adjust. It’s like they’re thinking, “What is this newfangled contraption doing in my dining room?” Just give them a moment to sniff around and figure things out.
Placement is key. Make sure the feeder is in a spot that’s easy for all your cats to reach but safe from the hot afternoon sun which could spoil the wet food. You don’t want Mr. Whiskers’s dinner to turn into a science experiment!
Now, let’s talk tech. A programmable automatic feeder allows you to set a feeding schedule that keeps your cats’ tummies full and happy even when you’re away. It’s like having a robot butler for your cats—very posh! Just make sure to:
- Check the feeder for clogging or jamming occasionally.
- Use feeders with a backup battery feature, because power outages happen and you don’t want your kitties to miss a meal.
- Keep it clean to avoid unwelcome smells or bacteria.
For portion control, you can adjust portion sizes to ensure each cat is getting the right amount of dry food. Some feeders even come with microchip technology or WiFi-enabled features that can send you push notifications—it’s like your cat sending you a text saying, “I was fed, human! Carry on.”
And don’t forget, if your feeder has a timer, synchronize your watches! No cat likes to wait for late dinner service.
If you’re ever in doubt, have a chat with your vet about the best meal plan for your purring pals. Trust me, a little planning goes a long way for your multiple-cat household!
FAQ
Are automatic cat feeders a good idea?
They absolutely can be! Automatic cat feeders are a fantastic way to ensure your feline friends get their meals on time, especially if you’re juggling a busy schedule. They can help with portion control, reduce overeating, and are ideal for cats that require a strict diet. These devices are a hit in homes with multiple cats because they can prevent food hogging by distributing meals at programmed times.
How long can I leave my cat with an automatic feeder?
With a high-quality automatic feeder, you can typically leave your cat for a weekend without worrying. Some advanced models can hold enough food for several days and keep it fresh. Just remember, automatic feeders are not a substitute for human interaction and daily checks; cats need love and attention, plus fresh water and a clean litter box.
Conclusion
In my years of veterinary practice, I’ve seen how automatic cat feeders can simplify feeding routines for multiple cats. While convenience is a big plus, it’s essential to choose the right feeder to accommodate the feeding needs of all your feline friends.
To my fellow pet lovers, I invite you to share your stories and tips on using automatic cat feeders. Your insights could be a great help to the community. If you’re curious to try out any of the recommended products, give them a look. Feedback from actual users is invaluable.
Thank you all for reading. Your time and attention mean a lot, and I hope you’ve found this article beneficial. If you have any questions, feel free to visit my website for more information.
