Content
- Classic Cat Feeder
- Automatic Cat Feeder
- Interactive Cat Feeder
- Elevated Cat Feeder
- Anti-voracity feeder for cats
- Smart Cat Feeder
- How to choose the best feeder for your cat
Cat feeders are essential components in your home. In addition to the more traditional pans, which only differ in color, size or material, we currently find a considerable variety of these accessories on the market, as we will see in this article by PeritoAnimal.
Below, we review the different types of cat feeders and the most outstanding models, so you can choose the one that best suits your feline's needs.
Classic Cat Feeder
With this name we group the simpler cat feeders and acquaintances. With different colors and designs, for example, with drawings or figures in relief, today it is possible to choose those that best match the decoration of the house.
Materials also diversified. So we can find feeders plastic, steel or ceramic. Some have an eraser on the base to prevent slipping, and on some models it's removable. Others have a mat-like base that is also non-slip. As for appearance, you can find from the classic round to oval feeders, or in the shape of a cat's silhouette, or even in the shape of a footprint. The depth is also very variable, and you must adapt it to the characteristics of the cat.
Finally, we mention the feeders with dispensers, which allow you to leave a considerable amount of food within reach of the cat, which he will gradually have access to while you are not at home. They consist of a base plate and a container where food is stored, which is placed on the plate vertically and filled from above when opening the lid. They are usually made of plastic. Of course, keep in mind that it's not the most suitable feeder for a cat who tends to overeat.
Automatic Cat Feeder
Automatic feeders can be considered a modern version of dispensers. Therefore, they are also an important advantage if you leave your cat alone for a long period of time. Its mechanism is based on programmed opening with a timer, or a remote opening when defined. In addition, they keep food or water, if any, in perfect condition thanks to their airtight seal. In this way, they also avoid the presence of insects. On some models, you can even set the closing speed. Others are activated from the cell phone. Also see how many days you can leave your cat alone at home if you need to go out for a while.
In households with more than one cat, they offer the advantage that, by means of a microchip or pendant, the lid can only be opened when the corresponding cat is eating. For example, if one of them is forced to follow a special diet or eats too much, with the automatic feeder it is possible to ensure that there are no problems with eating. This type of feeder for cats also allows you to control the amount of food. They run on batteries or electricity and are made of plastic.
Interactive Cat Feeder
These types of cat feeders act as interactive toys. Thus, in addition to food, provide the cat with mental stimulation and physical activity, since he has to be able to get his food. It's also a way to make you eat more slowly.
They are designed as labyrinths arranged vertically, so that the cat must move the food with its paws, introducing it through the various holes until reaching the bottom, where there is a plate to hold it. There are several levels of difficulty, so the animal doesn't tend to get bored.
Elevated Cat Feeder
You can also find cat feeders with a base that raises them above the ground. Some have an ergonomic design that facilitates access to food and the adoption of a comfortable posture that can favor cats with mobility problems.
Another option to achieve elevation is a pan support, or pans that have a built-in silicone base, with the support in the center. This base gives them good stability and protects the floor from possible stains. They are usually made of ceramic or aluminum, although we also find them in wood. Check out the many advantages of elevated cat feeders in this other article.
On the other hand, you can also see how to make a cat feeder with the help of this video:
Anti-voracity feeder for cats
This type of cat feeder is very useful if you live with cats very anxious about the food. They are characterized by having a high surface, making it difficult for the cat to access food, and forcing it to eat slowly and in small quantities, as it takes time to retrieve the food from the peaks of different sizes that make up the feeder. Another type of these feeders fulfills the same function, but based on obstacles.
In addition, the cat needs to use all its ability to be able to eat, which serves as a stimulus. In this way, these pans also provide entertainment on a mental level. They are made of plastic or melamine.
Smart Cat Feeder
So-called smart cat feeders contain a scale that allows you to accurately weigh the amount of food that he must eat. Some models of these feeders for cats are made with antibacterial materials, maximizing hygiene, and have a smaller area, which facilitates the cat's access to food. Another detail that can be found in this feeder is that it is usually linked to a mobile application with which a detailed guide to the cat's diet can be made. They run on batteries.
How to choose the best feeder for your cat
First, it's important to focus on the material. The most popular is probably plastic, although it is increasingly being replaced by steel, ceramic or even bamboo. The material is important because plastic can cause allergic reactions in some cats.. In addition, it acquires odors and degrades over time. For these reasons, ceramic, stainless steel or bamboo are the most recommended options today.
When choosing the best feeder for cats, you should also consider the size and depth. So, if your cat has a flat Persian nose, it's a good idea to opt for a flat feeder with low edges, just like a kitten kitten. On the other hand, any cat will eat from a plate without any problems, but if you decide to choose a sophisticated feeder, it will likely take a learning period before your cat understands how it works. Another fact to remember is the weight of the feeder to prevent it from tipping over, especially if the cat is small or has the habit of using its paws to eat.
One last important observation: double feeders are not a good option. Cats prefer to have water separate from food and, in addition, they are more difficult to clean, replenish or empty. Also remember to keep the eating area or areas separate from areas intended for rest, leisure and, of course, hygiene.
So what is the best cat feeder? The one that best suits your specific needs. As we've said before, if your feline tends to show anxiety about food, the best option will be an anti-greedy feeder. If, on the other hand, he tends to get bored or doesn't have enough environmental enrichment, interactive feeders can help him stay mentally more active. Finally, if you notice that he is adopting awkward or uncomfortable postures while eating, try an elevated bowl and see if he starts to eat better.
The most important thing is to always know your pet to learn how to supply its needs, as not all cats are the same or need the same type of feeder.