Automatic Feeders

An automatic feeder solves three separate problems, and most people buy one for just the first: the animal that has decided breakfast is at six, the evening you get home two hours later than planned, and the weekend away that would otherwise mean asking a neighbour.

There's a fourth that matters more than people expect — portion control. A timed feeder gives the same amount at the same hour, which is most of the work in keeping a cat or dog at a sensible weight.

The feeders here range from a six-tray timer that needs no app or account, to units with a camera so you can see the bowl from your phone. The water fountains are here for the same reason: cats drink more from moving water than from a still bowl, and most drink less than they should.

Two things we'd say before you buy any of them. Check your kibble size against the product page — pieces that are too large can bridge over the outlet. And run it for two or three days while you're at home before you rely on it for a trip.