Automatic cat feeders dispense pre-measured portions at set times using either gravity, spring-loaded hoppers or electronic timers. Most models let you adjust portion size and frequency to suit a kitten’s smaller meals. 

Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance. Most recommend topping up water daily, gently cleaning weekly, and doing a deep clean and filter replacement once a month. 

Most automatic waterers incorporate a mesh intake screen and replaceable carbon filter that trap hair, dust and other debris. To keep water clean, follow the filter-replacement schedule in your user manual and rinse internal parts weekly.

App-controlled feeders let you adjust meal times and portion sizes from your smartphone, receive low-food alerts and view real-time feeding logs—ideal for busy pet parents or frequent travellers. 

Digital automatic feeders let you edit or delete individual meal slots directly on the device or, in the case of smart feeders, within the companion app. Follow the instructions in your feeder’s user manual.

By dispensing exact portion sizes at consistent intervals, feeders help prevent overeating and help you stick to your vet-recommended calorie limits. Pair portion control with periodic weigh-ins and adjust meal sizes as needed to maintain a healthy body condition score.

Gravity feeders continuously refill the bowl from a storage space as your cat eats—great for cats that graze, but they provide no portion control. Automatic feeders employ electronic timers to dispense specific amounts at scheduled times, giving you full control over meal quantity and frequency.