Automatic Cat Feeder: what to look for when buying

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Automatic Cat Feeder: What to Look For?

Founder Prime AnimalZ · 19 January 2026 · 7 min read

Quick answer

When choosing an automatic cat feeder, focus on four points: capacity (4 L for a weekend, 6 to 7 L for holidays), camera (remote viewing via app), schedule (up to 15 meals per day) and battery backup in the event of a power cut.

✓ Capacity: 4 L = 3 to 7 days, 6 to 7 L = 1 to 2 weeks
✓ Camera: HD image, including at night
✓ App: set a schedule per day
✓ Battery backup: works even during a power cut

Many cat owners buy an automatic cat feeder because they want to go away for a few days. That is a good reason. But once you have one, you quickly discover it does more than just serve as a holiday solution. Regular feeding times are healthier for the cat, portion control helps prevent weight gain, and being able to check in via the camera gives a reassuring feeling while you are at the office.

The question then becomes: which one do you choose? I will explain honestly what to look out for, without getting lost in the specifications.

Why an automatic cat feeder?

Cats are creatures of habit. They prefer to eat at set times, in several small meals throughout the day. Free feeding (bowl always full) leads to overeating and weight gain in many cats. An automatic cat feeder delivers the right portion at the agreed time, even when you are not there.

Portion control is the easiest way to monitor weight without any fuss. Set the schedule in the app and the feeder does the rest. Every day, even if you have a long day or are away for a night.

Capacity: what size do you need?

The capacity determines how long you can go without refilling. A rough guideline:

Situation	Recommended capacity
Single weekday trip out	4 L
Long weekend (3 days)	4 L to 6 L
One-week holiday	6 L or 7 L
Two cats or large dog	7 L or 2 separate units

A cat eats an average of 50 to 80 grams of dry food per day. A 4 L hopper (approx. 2 kg) lasts a typical cat roughly 25 to 40 days with normal use. Slightly less in holiday use, where you want a larger reserve.

Camera, app and schedule

Not every feeder has the same camera quality. Look out for the following:

Resolution: at least 720P for a recognisable image. An HD camera (1080P) gives a sharp picture, even at night.
Two-way audio: you can let your voice be heard and hear whether your cat is meowing at the bowl.
Schedule: set how many meals per day, at what times, and how large the portion is. Up to 15 meals per day is standard and sufficient.
Wi-Fi: all Prime AnimalZ models work via a 2.4 GHz network. No subscription required.

Tip: Start with the same times as you currently feed manually. This way the cat barely notices the difference and fully adapts to the new system within a few days.

How do you set up an automatic cat feeder?

Download the app Free for iOS and Android. Create an account and follow the steps.
Connect via Wi-Fi Make sure you are on a 2.4 GHz network (not 5 GHz). On most routers this is the second network option.
Set up a name and schedule Give your cat a name in the app, set the meal times and the portion per meal (on average 6 to 7 grams).
Place next to the existing bowl Leave the feeder next to the old bowl for a week. This gives the cat time to get used to the device at its own pace.
Remove the old bowl After the transition period, remove the old bowl. The cat will then feed entirely from the automatic feeder.

Which model suits your situation?

Compact model

Standard Feeder 4L

4 L · HD camera · App schedule

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Frequently asked questions

Does an automatic cat feeder work with wet food?

No. Wet food spoils within a few hours outside the fridge. An automatic cat feeder is suitable for dry food only. If you want to give wet food, combine it with a manual portion at a set time.

What happens during a power cut?

All Prime AnimalZ models have a battery backup running on 3 AA batteries. The cat will eat at the scheduled time even if the power goes out. The camera does not work without electricity, but the schedule continues on the batteries.

My cat is too clever and prises the bowl open. Will this work?

The lid has a lock that is resistant to resourceful cats. Most cats quickly learn that tapping gets them nowhere. Some particularly persistent cats try for a few days, then give up.

How large is a portion?

On average 6 to 7 grams of dry food per meal. An adult cat weighing 4 kg needs roughly 60 grams per day, divided across 3 meals. Adjust this based on your vet's advice and the specific food you use.

Can I use the feeder for a dog as well?

Yes, for small and medium-sized dogs. For large dogs with a higher daily food requirement we recommend a larger model. The 7 L is suitable for dogs up to approximately 20 kg at a normal activity level.

Conclusion

For most cat owners the 6 L is the right model: enough capacity for a short holiday, compact dimensions and all the features you need. If you have a large cat, two cats, or want to refill less frequently, go for the 7 L Premium.

Browse the full range at Prime AnimalZ feeders and compare the models side by side.

Combine with a drinking fountain

The feeder takes care of the food, the drinking fountain takes care of the water. Together you ensure your cat has everything it needs, even when you are not around.

View drinking fountains →