Setting up an automatic cat feeder via the app is simpler than it sounds. In this guide we walk step by step through the installation, setting up a feeding schedule and the most frequently asked questions about using the feeder.

What do you need for installation?

Before you start, check three things. First: a Wi-Fi network at 2.4 GHz. Most routers support this automatically, but some routers separate 2.4 and 5 GHz under different network names. Make sure you choose the correct one.

Second: the app, available to download on the App Store or Google Play. Search for the brand name of your feeder. Third: the serial number of the feeder, found on the device or in the packaging.

Step by step: connecting the feeder via the app

How do you set up the ideal feeding schedule?

How many meals per day?

Adult cats eat best with 2 to 3 meals per day. Kittens 3 to 4. For cats with a sensitive stomach or cats that eat quickly, 3 to 5 small meals work better than 2 large ones.

Which times work best?

Link meal times to your daily routine and your cat's. Many owners choose: morning (7:00), midday (13:00) and evening (18:00). Cats are also active in the evening, so an evening meal gives them energy for their nocturnal activities.

Avoid meals just before bedtime if you want your cat to be settled at night. Food makes cats active, not the reverse.

Portion size

Divide the daily portion across the number of meals. For a 4 kg cat, the daily portion is roughly 80 to 100 grams of dry food. With 3 meals that is approximately 28 to 33 grams per meal. Set this per meal in the app.

Setting up the feeder for holidays

For holidays you do not need to adjust the schedule: the feeder will continue following the same plan. Check via the app whether the hopper is sufficiently full. A 6 L hopper with a 4 kg cat eating 3 meals of 30 grams will last roughly 60 to 70 meals, about 20 days.

If you want an emergency alert, set up push notifications for when the hopper is nearly empty, so you can ask someone to top it up in good time.

Troubleshooting

Feeder will not connect to Wi-Fi

Check you are on the 2.4 GHz network, not 5 GHz. Move the router closer to the feeder, or temporarily move the feeder closer to the router for the initial pairing. After the first connection, the signal works at normal distances.

The feeder does not dispense food at the set time

Check whether the schedule has been saved correctly in the app. Also check whether the feeder is sufficiently full: when the hopper is empty the feeder sends a notification in the app but skips the meal. Refill the hopper and the schedule will resume at the next planned meal.

Portion is larger or smaller than expected

The portion setting is in units, which can vary depending on kibble size. At first setup, test by starting a meal manually and weighing the result. Adjust the portion setting until the actual portion matches the desired amount.

Our feeders with app control

Frequently asked questions

Does the feeder still work if Wi-Fi goes down?+

Yes. The feeding schedule is stored locally on the feeder. During a Wi-Fi outage meals continue at the set times. You temporarily lose the camera, notifications and app control, but feeding is not interrupted.

Can I manage multiple feeders via one app?+

Yes. Simply add a second device to the same account. You manage each device separately under its own name. Ideal if you have 2 cats that each use their own feeder.

Can I adjust the schedule while away from home?+

Yes, as long as your phone has internet and the feeder is connected to Wi-Fi. Change the times or portions in the app and the feeder adjusts immediately. Handy if you expect to arrive home later than planned.

How do I know whether my cat actually ate?+

Via the camera in the app. Open the live feed around meal time and you can see whether your cat visits the feeder. Most models also save a log entry for each dispensed meal, visible in the timeline in the app.

How do I reset the feeder?+

Hold the reset button on the device for 5 seconds until you hear a beep. After a reset the Wi-Fi connection is removed and you must pair the device again via the app. You will then need to set up your schedule again.

Does the feeder work during a power cut?+

During a power cut the feeder stops. Most models offer a battery backup option. Check the specifications of your model. Once power is restored the feeder resumes the schedule based on the internal clock, which retains the time after a brief outage.

Conclusion

Setting up an automatic cat feeder via the app takes around 10 minutes, just once. After that the schedule runs automatically, even without internet and even when you are away. Adjust the schedule when needed, add a second feeder if it suits you, and check via the camera whether your cat actually ate.

Browse the feeder collection or read the complete guide to automatic cat feeders for more information.