Cat Water & Food Feeders

Self-feeders can be a real convenience for people who live with cats.

From cat fountains and battery-operated dishes to simple food and water dispensers, self-waterers and feeders can be a real convenience for people living with cats. But no self-feeder or waterer is completely maintenance-free. At the very least, all require monitoring to make sure they're working properly.

Fountains Need Cleaning

All cat fountains and self-waterers need regular cleaning. Cat hair can clog the pumps of fountains and the water receptacles become moldy if not cleaned often.

Self-Feeder Caution

Large pieces of dry food can get stuck in self-feeders, preventing food from dropping into the bowl.

Read the Reviews

Some fountains and battery-operated dishes can be difficult to set up and maintain. Reading customer reviews online will help you decide which to buy.

Chin Acne

Some cats develop painful chin acne from eating or drinking from plastic bowls. Automatic feeders and waterers are not suitable for these cats.

Not a Cat Sitter

Leaving a cat alone for more than 24 hours is risky for many reasons. Since so many things can go wrong, self-feeders and waterers should never replace a pet sitter when you're out of town.

References

• Web Vet: Feline Chin Acne; John A. Bukowski, DVM, MPH, PhD and Susan E. Aiello, DVM, ELS