Can You Put Wet Cat Food in an Automatic Feeder? Answered!

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If you’re a cat parent, you might think of ways to make feeding your feline friend more convenient.

Automatic feeders are a go-to solution for many.

But what if your cat is more inclined towards wet food? Can you still use an automatic feeder?

Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Understanding Automatic Feeders

To get started, let’s understand the mechanics behind automatic feeders.

So, how do automatic feeders work?

These devices are designed to release food portions at specified intervals, ensuring your cat receives its meals even when you’re not home.

However, not all feeders are made equal.

Some are tailored for dry kibbles, while others can handle wet food.

Dry vs. Wet Food Automatic Feeders

The difference between dry and wet automatic feeders lies mainly in their design.

Dry feeders typically have a gravity dispensing mechanism suitable for kibbles, ensuring they don’t jam. At the preset interval, the mechanism usually rotates, letting a portion of food fall into the bowl below.

Read More: Can Dry Cat Food Go Bad In Heat?

On the other hand, wet food feeders are constructed to keep the food fresh and prevent it from drying out. These often come with features like ice packs or refrigeration units.

They are often designed for each portion to rotate to an open section for your pet to be able to eat it, whilst keeping the remainder fresh.

Pros and Cons of Automatic Feeders

Using an automatic feeder has its ups and downs:

Pros:

  • Convenience: This is especially helpful if you have irregular schedules or are away for a short trip.
  • Controlled Portions: Helps in maintaining a healthy diet and prevents overeating.

Cons:

  • Battery Dependency: If your feeder is not mains-powered, there’s always a risk of batteries dying.
  • Maintenance: Wet food feeders need regular cleaning to ensure hygiene and prevent mould growth.

Using Wet Food in Automatic Feeders

Given the design considerations, can you put wet cat food in an automatic feeder?

You can, but ensure the feeder is designed for wet food.

Using wet food in a feeder intended for dry kibbles can result in malfunctioning, and the food might dry out or become less appetizing for your feline friend.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Refrigeration: Opt for models that can keep the wet food chilled, ensuring it stays fresh until its feeding time.
  • Timers: A precise timer is essential to maintain your cat’s feeding routine.
  • Hygiene: Clean the feeder regularly to prevent any bacterial growth.

If you’ve been pondering about shifting to automatic feeding, weighing the pros and cons is essential.

Assess your cat’s needs, your lifestyle, and then make an informed decision.

Remember, the ultimate goal is to keep your cat healthy, happy, and well-fed.

Product Options

There are lots of dry food dispenser options available for all price points.

For wet food feeders, the choice is more limited.

We have selected a variety of potential options.


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