Cat feeders are fundamental components of your domestic trousseau. In addition to the more traditional feeders, which hardly 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 on our site.
Below, we review the different types of cat feeders and the most outstanding models so that you can choose the one that best meets the needs of your feline.
Classic Cat Feeders
Using this denomination we group together the feeders for cats that are simpler and more well-known. Of different colors and designs, for example, with drawings or figures in relief, nowadays it is possible to choose the ones that best combine with the decoration of the home.
The materials have also diversified. Thus, we can find plastic, steel or ceramic feeders Some have a rubber base to prevent them from slipping and in certain models this is removable. Others have a mat-like base that is also non-slip. As for the appearance, we will find from the classic round feeders to the oval ones or in the shape of a cat or footprint silhouette. The depth is also very variable and we must adapt it to the characteristics of the cat.
Lastly, we mention the hoppers, which allow the cat to leave a considerable amount of food within the reach of the cat, which it will access little by little while we are not at home. They consist of a base plate and a container where the food is stored, which is placed vertically embedded on the plate and filled from the top, opening the lid. They are usually plastic. Of course, keep in mind that it is not the most suitable bowl for a cat that eats excessively.
Automatic cat feeders
Automatic feeders can be considered a modern version of the hopper. Therefore, they are also an important advantage when leaving the cat alone for a long period of time. Its mechanism is based on the programmed opening with a timer or remotely when we set. In addition, they keep the food or, if applicable, the water in perfect condition thanks to its hermetic 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 mobile phone. Check how many days you can leave your cat home alone if you need to go out for a while.
In homes with more than one cat, they offer the added bonus that, through a microchip or pendant, the lid can only be opened when the corresponding cat is going to eat. For example, if someone is forced to follow a special diet or goes overboard with food, with the automatic feeder it is possible to guarantee that there are no feeding problems. This type of cat feeder also allows you to control the amount of food. They work with batteries or electricity and are made of plastic.
Interactive Cat Feeders
This type of cat feeder acts as an interactive toy. In this way, in addition to food, they offer the cat mental stimulation and physical activity, since he has to manage to catch his food. It's also a way for you to eat more slowly.
Some are designed as mazes arranged vertically, so that the cat has to move the food with its paws, inserting it through the different holes until it reaches the bottom, where there is a plate that contains. There are several levels of difficulty, so the animal does not tend to get bored.
Raised Cat Feeders
We can also find cat feeders with a base, which makes them rise 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 support for feeders or feeders that incorporate a silicone base with the support in the center. This base provides them with good stability and protects the floor from stains. They are usually made of ceramic or aluminum, although we also find them made of wood. Check the different advantages of elevated cat feeders in this other article.
On the other hand, you can make your own raised feeder with this video.
Anti-voracity feeders for cats
This type of feeder for cats is very useful when we live with felines that are very anxious about food They are characterized by having a relief surface, so that the cat finds it difficult to reach the food, being forced to eat slowly and in small quantities because it takes time to rescue it from among the different sized peaks that make up the feeder. Another type of these feeders fulfill the same function based on obstacles.
On the other hand, the cat must display all its ability to get to eat, which serves as a stimulus. In this way, these feeders also offer entertainment on a mental level. They are made of plastic or melamine.
Smart Cat Feeders
The so-called smart feeders for cats contain a scale that allows you to accurately weigh the amount of food that you should eat. Some models of these cat feeders are made with antibacterial materials, maximizing hygiene, and have a lower 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 kept. They work with batteries.
How to choose the best feeder for your cat?
First of all, it is important to look at the material. Probably the most popular is plastic, although it is increasingly being replaced by steel, ceramic or even bamboo. The material is relevant, as 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 more recommended options.
When choosing the best cat feeder you must also take into account size and depth Thus, if our cat It has a flattened Persian type nose. It is convenient to opt for a flat feeder with low edges. The same as if it is a small kitten. On the other hand, any cat eats without problems from a bowl, but if we decide on sophisticated feeders, it is likely that we need a period of learning until our feline is done with its operation. Another thing to keep in mind 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 legs to eat.
One last, important note: Double feeders are not a good optionCats prefer to have their water separated from their food and, furthermore, it is more complicated to clean, replace or empty them. Also remember to keep the eating area or areas separate from the areas intended for rest, play and, of course, hygiene.
So what is the best cat feeder? The one that best suits your particular needs. As we say, if your feline tends to show anxiety about food, the best option will be an anti-voracity feeder. If, on the other hand, you tend to get bored or don't have enough environmental enrichment, interactive feeders can help you stay more mentally active. Lastly, if you notice that he adopts awkward or awkward positions to eat, try a raised feeder and see if he eats better.
The most important thing is always to get to know our animal to learn how to meet its needs, since not all cats are the same or need the same type of feeder.
