Best Automatic Feeders for Cats and Dogs

Key Specs

• Food Type: Dry
• Capacity: 24 cups or one 6-lb. bag
• Controls: Smartphone App, Amazon Alexa
• Power Source: Wall adapter; optional battery backup (4 D batteries not included)

The Smart Feed from PetSafe is packed with thoughtful features, yet it’s not too complex to use or to set up. It’s controlled through the free PetSafe app, which requires you to connect to your home’s Wifi. Using the app, you can schedule up to 12 meals per day. If you want to give your pet an impromptu snack, just press the button on the top of the feeder (it can be disabled if your pet finds it!), go through the app, or simply say, “Alexa, give my pet a snack,” if you have it linked to an Amazon Echo.

Key Specs

• Food Type: Dry
• Capacity: 28 cups or 7.5 lb.
• Controls: Manual
• Power Source: USB power supply and Micro USB plug with wall adapter; optional battery backup (4 AA batteries not included)

The Gamma 2 Nano Feeder may not have any smartphone or virtual assistant–compatible options, but it still offers modern, convenient features that make mealtimes easier. The LCD display may remind you of an alarm clock, with manual buttons to schedule mealtimes, set portion sizes, or give your pet a quick snack. You can even set it to “slow feeding mode,” in which it dispenses small amounts of food over 15 minutes to quell gulpers.