Wi-Fi outage protection: For smart feeders, I turned off the Wi-Fi connection in my home to see if each one still dispensed the programmed feedings without a signal.ĭispenser feeders are great if you have a pet that doesn't need strict portion control, and if you like the idea of filling the dispenser only every few weeks.Power outage protection: I connected dispensers that required a power adapter to a surge protector, and then turned off the surge protector to see which feeders retained their programmed settings.The fresh test: I added wet and semi-moist food to the dispensers that supported them and observed how fresh they kept the food over 24 hours.Ease of cleaning: I followed the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and noted any challenges associated with cleaning each dispenser.

I tested four dry-kibble labels, two semi-moist varieties, and one wet-food brand: Meow Mix Original Choice, Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused, Pedigree Adult, Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care, Purina Moist & Meaty, Purina Beneful Healthy Weight, and Fancy Feast Medleys, respectively. Kibble compatibility and dispensing accuracy: I tested how easily and accurately each model dispensed pet food of different sizes, shapes, and moisture content.Stability: I took a 10-pound bag of rice and banged it against each feeder to see if it would stay upright when attacked by a hungry pet.I also tried breaking into them myself by using my fingers and various kitchen utensils. Pet-proofing: After filling each feeder with kibble, I unleashed my cat and dog on them to see if they could easily steal kibble from the hopper or spout.Ease of use: I followed the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble and program each feeder, and I noted how intuitive each system was.

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