Automatic cat feeder: which one should you choose?
Published by Planète Pets · managing editor: Clément Lacaille · how our guides are written
An automatic cat feeder dispenses precise portions at set times, even when you are away. For a cat home alone during the day, a programmable model of 2 to 4 litres at 40-80 € is the best choice; gravity feeders (15 to 30 €) only suit cats capable of regulating themselves.
Contents · 4 sections
Gravity or programmable feeder: what is the difference?
A gravity feeder lets kibble flow down as the cat eats: simple and cheap, but with no portion control at all, which encourages weight gain in greedy cats. A programmable feeder releases portions of 5 to 10 g at the times you set, from 1 to 6 meals a day. Connected versions with a camera, covered in our pet camera and smart feeder guide, run to 100-150 €.
What should you look for in a cat feeder?
- Capacity: 2 to 3 L for one cat (1 to 2 weeks of autonomy).
- Portion accuracy: adjustable in 5 g increments, ideally.
- Anti-jam system suited to the size of your kibble.
- Dual power: mains plus battery backup for power cuts.
- Removable bowl and hopper, dishwasher safe.
- Locking lid that resists determined paws.
How do you get your cat used to the feeder?
Set the machine next to the usual bowl for a few days without switching it on, then run the first feeds while you are present. Match the schedule to your cat’s current mealtimes, check the total daily ration and weigh your cat once a month to fine-tune portions through the year. If your cat inhales each portion in seconds, pair the feeder with a slow-feeder bowl or a foraging game. Compare all the models in our cat food section and on the cat hub.
Frequently asked questions
Do feeders work with wet food?
There are compartment feeders cooled by ice packs (25 to 50 €), but wet food only keeps a few hours: save them for short absences.
Can I go away for the weekend thanks to the feeder?
Yes, for 24 to 48 hours maximum, with two water points. Beyond that, arrange a daily visit: a sick or trapped cat needs to be seen quickly, by a vet if necessary.
Can the motor noise frighten the cat?
Some cats startle at first. Choose a quiet model and reward the first approaches.
An accessory from our shop for this use: Automatic tail ball for cats (€17.90) · the whole shop
For the gear, at Le Félin (same family, zero commission): Arbre à chat tronc (from €252.99)
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Cats universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.
