The PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder is a versatile and smart solution for feeding your pets. With features like programmable mealtimes and compatibility with Alexa, Apple, and Android, it’s designed to ensure your pet is fed on time, every time.
This feeder is perfect for cat and dog owners who need a reliable feeding solution, especially during power outages, thanks to its backup battery feature. Let’s dive into the details and see if this feeder lives up to its reputation.
Having used the PetSafe Smart Feed for a few months, I can confidently say it has made feeding my pets much easier. The 24-cup capacity is more than sufficient for my two cats, and the ability to schedule up to 12 meals a day through the app is incredibly convenient.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the slow feed option, which dispenses food gradually to prevent my pets from eating too quickly. The app notifications are also a plus, as they keep me informed about food levels and any potential issues with the feeder.
Innovative Award-Winning Design
The PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder has garnered accolades for its innovative design, winning the 2020 Pet Innovation Award for Electronic Feeders/Waterers Product of the Year. This recognition highlights its capability to ensure your pet is fed on time, every time. Users appreciate the feeder’s reliability and advanced features that make pet feeding a seamless process. The innovative design also takes into account the diverse needs of pet owners, ensuring convenience and peace of mind.
Smartphone Connectivity and Controls
One of the standout features of the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder is its compatibility with smartphones via the My PetSafe app. This app allows users to monitor and control feeding schedules remotely, which is particularly useful for pet owners with busy lifestyles or those who travel frequently. The app is compatible with both iPhone and Android devices, ensuring a wide range of users can benefit from its functionalities. Additionally, the feeder sends notifications to your smartphone when the food is running low or if there is an error, keeping you informed at all times.
Alexa Integration for Convenience
The PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to feed their pets a snack using voice commands. This feature is particularly useful for those who already use Alexa in their smart home ecosystem. However, it’s worth noting that while Alexa can be used to give treats, the full feeding schedule must be managed through the app. This integration adds an extra layer of convenience for pet owners who prefer hands-free control over their pet’s feeding times.
Flexible Portion Control
The feeder offers flexible portion control, allowing you to schedule up to 12 meals daily with portions ranging from 1/8 cup to 4 cups. This flexibility is beneficial for pet owners who need to manage their pet’s diet meticulously, whether it’s for weight management or specific dietary requirements. The Slow Feed setting is another useful feature, dispensing meals larger than 1/8 cup in small amounts over 15 minutes to prevent pets from eating too quickly, which can help reduce the risk of digestive issues.
Backup Battery System
One of the key concerns for automatic feeders is ensuring that pets are fed during power outages. The PetSafe Smart Feed addresses this with a backup battery system that uses four D-cell batteries. This feature ensures that your pet’s feeding schedule remains uninterrupted even during power outages, providing peace of mind to pet owners. The feeder’s dual power options make it a reliable choice for those who live in areas prone to frequent power disruptions.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder is straightforward, thanks to its top-rack dishwasher-safe components. The lid, hopper, bowl, and bowl holder can all be easily removed and cleaned in the dishwasher, making maintenance hassle-free. This ease of cleaning ensures that the feeder remains hygienic for your pets, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup and ensuring that your pet’s food is always dispensed from a clean container.
Durable Construction
The PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder is built with durability in mind. Users have praised its sturdy construction, noting that it feels more solid and well-built compared to previous models. The feeder’s robust design includes secure latches that prevent pets from prying the lid open, ensuring that the food remains safely stored inside. This durability is particularly important for households with curious pets who might otherwise tamper with their food source.
User-Friendly App Interface
The My PetSafe app that accompanies the feeder is user-friendly and intuitive. Setting up feeding schedules, adjusting portion sizes, and monitoring your pet’s feeding activity can be done with just a few taps. The app’s interface is designed to be accessible to users of all tech levels, ensuring that even those who are not tech-savvy can easily manage their pet’s feeding routine. Users have found the app to be a significant improvement over previous versions, with fewer issues and a more seamless experience overall.
Noise Levels and Pet Adjustment
One aspect that some users have noted is the noise level of the feeder when dispensing food. The sound of the motor and the kibble hitting the stainless steel bowl can be quite loud, which may startle some pets initially. However, most pets tend to adjust to the noise over time with positive reinforcement and patience. For pets particularly sensitive to noise, placing a mat or pot holder under the bowl can help dampen the sound, making the feeding experience more comfortable for them.
Portability and Travel Convenience
The PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder is also designed with portability in mind. Its compact size and battery backup option make it a convenient choice for those who travel with their pets. You can easily take the feeder along on trips, ensuring that your pet’s feeding schedule remains consistent even when away from home. This feature is particularly useful for pet owners who frequently travel or relocate, providing assurance that their pets will always have access to their meals.
Pros:
- Programmable mealtimes with flexible portions
- Compatible with Alexa, Apple, and Android devices
- Backup batteries ensure meal delivery during power outages
Cons:
- Loud noise when food dispenses
- Short power cord
- High price point compared to other options
Conclusion
Overall, the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Cat Feeder is a solid investment for pet owners looking for a reliable and convenient feeding solution. Its smart features and ease of use make it a standout product in its category.
While it may be a bit noisy and the power cord could be longer, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks. I highly recommend this feeder to anyone in need of an automated feeding system for their pets.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Can this feeder be used for both cats and dogs?
Answer: Yes, the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Feeder is suitable for both cats and small to medium-sized dogs.
Question: Is the feeder easy to clean?
Answer: Yes, the lid, hopper, bowl, and bowl holder are top-rack dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning.
Question: Can I control the feeder remotely?
Answer: Yes, you can use the My PetSafe app to monitor and adjust your pet’s meals remotely.
