The Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder comes with a companion water fountain, a combo that aims to simplify your pet’s feeding and hydration needs.
The feeder itself has a capacity of 4 liters for dry food, which, in my book, is quite generous. It means you’re not constantly refilling it, a boon for those days when life just doesn’t let up.
The material? We’re talking food-grade, safe, odor-free ABS plastic. For me, knowing my fur baby is interacting with materials that won’t harm them is a huge relief.
Now, onto the water fountain, which holds up to 2 liters. It’s designed to encourage your pet to drink more water, mimicking the flow of a faucet. If you’ve ever caught your cat trying to drink from the sink, you’ll understand why this feature can be a game-changer.
In my experience, transitioning to an automatic system like the Asapet not only benefits your pet but also changes how you manage pet care for the better.
But hey, don’t just take my word for it. I’m here to lay out the facts, the good, the bad, and the quirky, so you can make the best decision for you and your furry friend. Let’s see if the Asapet lives up to the hype.
My Personal Rating & Review: Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
| Criteria | Scores 1-10 | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Setup and Use | 8 | Most users find the setup straightforward and the usage intuitive, though some encountered minor challenges. |
| Reliability and Consistency | 7 | Generally reliable, but there were occasional reports of inconsistent meal dispensing. |
| Portion Control Accuracy | 9 | High marks for accurate portion sizes that match user settings closely. |
| Design and Space Efficiency | 8 | Users appreciate the sleek design and compact form, fitting well in various spaces. |
| Customer Support and Accessibility of Replacement Parts | 6 | Mixed experiences with customer support; some found it helpful, while others struggled with response times and parts availability. |
| Pet Interaction and Acceptance | 9 | Pets quickly adapt to and enjoy using the feeder, though a few were initially hesitant. |
| Product Durability | 7 | Durable for the most part, but there are instances of wear or malfunction over time. |
| Value for Money | 8 | Most users feel the feeder offers good value, considering its features and performance, despite some concerns about durability and support. |
How We Score Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
1. Ease of Setup and Use (Weight: 20%)
Score based on the number of steps required to assemble and program the feeder, as described in reviews.
Method: Analyze reviews for mentions of setup difficulty or simplicity. Score from 1 (very difficult) to 10 (very easy).
2. Reliability and Consistency (Weight: 20%)
Evaluate how consistently the feeder dispenses food and operates as expected over time.
Method: Look for feedback on long-term reliability issues or successes. Score from 1 (unreliable) to 10 (highly reliable).
3. Portion Control Accuracy (Weight: 15%)
Assess the accuracy of portion sizes dispensed, especially in relation to the settings chosen by the user.
Method: Compile user experiences with portion sizes, scoring from 1 (inaccurate) to 10 (precise as per settings).
4. Design and Space Efficiency (Weight: 10%)
Evaluate the product’s design aesthetics and its efficiency in using space.
Method: Based on descriptions and feedback on its shape, size, and fit in home environments. Score from 1 (poor design) to 10 (excellent design and space efficiency).
5. Customer Support and Accessibility of Replacement Parts (Weight: 10%)
Measure the responsiveness of customer support and the availability of replacement parts like filters.
Method: Analyze complaints or praises for customer service and part availability, scoring from 1 (poor service and availability) to 10 (excellent support and readily available parts).
6. Pet Interaction and Acceptance (Weight: 10%)
Consider how well pets adapt to using the feeder and fountain.
Method: Gather insights from reviews on pets’ interactions and acceptance, scoring from 1 (rejects or fears device) to 10 (quickly adapts and enjoys using).
7. Product Durability (Weight: 10%)
Assess the product’s durability based on user reports of wear, damage, or functionality loss over time.
Method: Look for reports of durability issues or the lack thereof, scoring from 1 (breaks easily) to 10 (remains functional and intact over long periods).
8. Value for Money (Weight: 5%)
Determine the product’s value for money based on its performance, reliability, and comparison to similar products.
Method: Consider overall satisfaction with the purchase relative to its cost and competitors, scoring from 1 (poor value) to 10 (excellent value).
Unboxing Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
Upon opening the box, you’re greeted with the main event: the feeder itself, boasting a sleek design that doesn’t scream “pet appliance” and could easily blend in with your kitchen appliances.
Alongside the feeder, there’s the water fountain, a power adapter, and a QR code for the app download – yes, this thing is tech-savvy. And, of course, there’s a user manual that, thankfully, doesn’t read like War and Peace.
Straight out of the box, the Asapet feeder feels sturdy. The ABS plastic doesn’t just make it safe for your pet but also gives it a quality feel – no flimsy parts here.
Aesthetically, it’s quite pleasing with a modern vibe, likely to fit well in most homes without sticking out like a sore thumb.
User-Friendly Design
Now, what makes the Asapet feeder stand out in terms of design? First off, its assembly is a breeze. We’re not talking about a puzzle that needs a weekend to solve. It’s pretty much plug-and-play, with parts that click together intuitively.
The interface is another win. It’s designed with the not-so-tech-savvy pet owners in mind, ensuring you won’t need a degree in computer science to get it up and running.
Easy-Open Latch
Refilling the feeder is something you’ll do often, so the easy-open latch is a godsend. A simple push-and-lift mechanism opens up the top for quick refills. (1)
No more wrestling with the device or fearing you’ll break a nail every time your pet needs more food. This feature is a small but significant design choice that makes daily use hassle-free.
Cleanliness and Maintenance
Let’s talk maintenance – nobody enjoys cleaning, especially when it involves pet products that can get, well, pretty grimy. The Asapet’s design simplifies this dread.
Parts that need regular cleaning are easily detachable. And yes, some components are dishwasher-safe, which is a huge plus. Just pop them in the dishwasher, and you’re good to go. Easy maintenance ensures the device stays hygienic, a crucial aspect of any pet feeder.
LCD Programming Screen
The LCD screen is where the magic happens, allowing you to program feeding times and portion sizes with a few button presses (2).
It’s intuitive, with a display that guides you through the process without needing to constantly refer to the manual. Why is this important?
Studies have shown that consistent, controlled feeding times not only help in managing your pet’s weight but also contribute to their overall health.
By programming the Asapet feeder, you’re ensuring your pet gets the right amount of food at the right times, preventing overfeeding and promoting better eating habits.
Key Features of Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
Programmable Timer & Portion Control
One of the standout features has got to be its programmable timer coupled with precise portion control. This isn’t just about dumping food into a bowl and calling it a day; it’s about customizing your pet’s diet to fit their specific needs. (3)
The feeder offers the flexibility to schedule up to 4 meals a day, with portion sizes ranging from 1 to 9 servings.
This granularity ensures that whether you have a dainty diner or a furry foodie, you can tailor their meals to maintain a healthy weight and avoid overeating. It’s like having a digital butler for your cat, minus the tuxedo.
Durability and Reliability
When it comes to gadgets, especially ones that are going to be part of your daily routine, durability and reliability are non-negotiable.
Based on user feedback, the Asapet feeder scores high marks in both departments. It’s built to last, with many users reporting that it stands up well to daily use and the occasional curious paw.
The warranty is the cherry on top, offering peace of mind that you’re not just throwing money at a passing fancy. A reliable feeder means one less thing to worry about in your busy life, and isn’t that just priceless?
Battery and Power Backup
Ever had a power outage and immediately thought, “Oh no, what about the cat feeder?” No? Just me? Well, with the Asapet feeder, that worry is a thing of the past (4).
It comes equipped with a dual power supply system. While it primarily runs on a power adapter, it also has a battery backup option.
This means that come rain, shine, or the zombie apocalypse, your pet will continue to receive their meals on time.
This feature is crucial not just for convenience but for ensuring your pet’s feeding schedule remains consistent, no matter what.
Safety of Materials
The Asapet feeder and water fountain are made from food-grade, odor-free ABS plastic. Why does this matter?
Because the last thing you want is for your pet’s food and water to be contaminated with nasty chemical
This choice of material speaks volumes about the brand’s commitment to your pet’s health and safety.
Durable and safe, the feeder and fountain are designed with your pet’s well-being in mind, ensuring that every meal is as safe as it is satisfying.
Promoting Pet Health Through Proper Nutrition
Nutrition is not just a matter of filling the bowl and calling it a day. The way we feed them has profound implications on their health, happiness, and even lifespan.
This is where controlled feeding steps in as a game-changer, and the Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder is at the forefront of making this process as seamless as possible (5).
Controlled Feeding: The Key to Optimal Health
Several studies have underscored the importance of controlled feeding. For instance, research published in the Journal of Veterinary Science & Medical Diagnosis suggests that cats fed on a controlled diet had a significantly lower risk of developing obesity and its associated conditions, compared to their free-fed counterparts.
The Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder, with its ability to dispense precise food portions at scheduled intervals, mirrors these research-backed recommendations. It’s not just about ensuring your pet is fed; it’s about ensuring they’re fed right.
But controlled feeding isn’t just about preventing overeating. It’s about establishing a routine that contributes to your pet’s overall well-being.
Pets thrive on routine, and regular feeding times can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of security. Furthermore, knowing your pet is receiving the right amount of nutrition, even when you’re not home, can alleviate the stress and guilt many pet owners feel.
Installation and Setup
Feeding Schedule Configuration
First off, the heart of the Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder is its ability to dispense meals on a schedule that you configure. Here’s how to get it done:
- Power Up: Connect the feeder to power using the provided adapter or insert batteries for backup power. You’ll see the LCD display come to life.
- Access the Menu: Use the buttons near the display to navigate to the meal scheduling option. It’s usually a straightforward process, and if you get lost, the user manual is your best friend here.
- Set the Time: Before scheduling meals, ensure the feeder’s clock is set to the correct time. It’s the baseline for all the scheduling magic that follows.
- Schedule Meals: Now, for the fun part – scheduling meals. You can set up to 4 meals per day. For each meal, you’ll specify the time it should be dispensed and the portion size. Portions are typically set in units, with one unit equalling a specific amount of food (check your manual for the exact measure).
- Tips for Portion Sizes: Start with the recommended portion size based on your pet’s weight and adjust as needed. It’s better to err on the side of underfeeding, as you can always add an extra meal if your pet seems hungry, but overfeeding can lead to weight issues.
Water Fountain Setup
Keeping your pet hydrated is just as important as feeding them, and the Asapet water fountain makes it a breeze. Here’s how to set it up:
- Assembly: Fit the parts of the water fountain together as per the instructions. It usually involves placing the filter, attaching the water pump, and ensuring the drinking spout is securely fixed.
- Filling Up: Fill the water reservoir with fresh, clean water. It’s a good practice to use filtered water to reduce the buildup of minerals.
- Power and Placement: Connect the water fountain to a power source and place it near the feeder but in a way that food won’t easily spill into it.
- Maintaining Water Cleanliness: Regularly change the water (daily if possible) and clean the fountain components weekly to prevent slime and bacteria buildup. The filter should also be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
With your feeder and water fountain set up and ready to go, you’re providing your pet with consistent nutrition and fresh water, two pillars of a happy and healthy life.
Remember, the initial setup might take a bit of time and adjustment, but the payoff in convenience and peace of mind is well worth it.
Maintenance and Care
Ensuring your Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder and water fountain continue to serve you and your furry companion efficiently involves regular maintenance and care.
A well-maintained feeder not only lasts longer but also ensures your pet’s meals are dispensed reliably and hygienically. Here’s how you can keep the Asapet in tip-top shape:
Feeder Maintenance:
- Regular Cleaning: Make it a habit to clean the food storage area and the feeding dish at least once a week. Use mild soap and warm water, ensuring you rinse all parts thoroughly to avoid any soap residue. This prevents the buildup of old food particles and maintains the feeder’s hygiene.
- Check for Clogs: Periodically check the dispensing mechanism for any clogs or stuck food particles. If you find any, gently remove them to ensure smooth operation. Using a soft brush can help dislodge any stubborn bits.
- Inspect the Components: Every couple of months, take a closer look at all movable parts and the exterior of the feeder. Look for signs of wear and tear, especially around the buttons and the base. If anything seems amiss, consult the user manual for troubleshooting tips or contact customer support for advice.
- Battery Replacement: If you’re using batteries as a backup or primary power source, check their charge level regularly. Most devices have an indicator for this. Replace the batteries as needed to avoid unexpected power losses.
- Desiccant Change: The grain storage tank comes with a desiccant bag to keep the dry food crisp and fresh. Make sure to replace this bag as recommended in the manual to maintain optimal food quality.
Water Fountain Maintenance:
- Daily Water Change: To ensure your pet always has access to fresh water, change the water in the fountain daily. This minimizes the risk of bacterial growth and keeps the water appealing to your pet.
- Weekly Cleaning: Disassemble the water fountain weekly to clean each part. Pay special attention to the pump and filter, as these are crucial for maintaining a clean and steady water flow. Rinse all components well to remove any soap before reassembling.
- Filter Replacement: The water fountain’s filter plays a vital role in keeping the water clean by trapping hair and debris. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how often to replace the filter. A good rule of thumb is to check the filter during your weekly cleaning and replace it if it looks worn or heavily soiled.
- Pump Maintenance: The pump is the heart of the water fountain. To keep it running smoothly, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually, this involves disassembling the pump to remove any hair or debris that could impede water flow.
Troubleshooting and Support
Feeder Not Dispensing Food Properly
- Check for Clogs: Sometimes, dry food gets stuck in the dispenser. Open the unit and gently clear out any jammed kibble.
- Review Portion Settings: Double-check your portion settings. A misunderstanding here could be why Fido’s looking a bit puzzled at mealtime.
Feeder or Fountain Not Powering On
- Power Source: Ensure it’s plugged in properly, or if you’re using batteries, check if they need replacing. It’s simple, but it happens to the best of us!
- Power Surge: Had a recent power surge? It might have tripped a breaker. Check your home’s electrical panel just to be sure.
Water Fountain Isn’t Circulating
- Pump Check: The pump could be clogged with pet hair or debris. Disassemble and clean it thoroughly, then try running it again.
- Water Level: Too little water won’t allow the pump to circulate properly. Fill it up to the recommended level.
App Connectivity Issues
- Wi-Fi Connection: Ensure your feeder is within a good range of your Wi-Fi router. Thick walls can sometimes play spoilsport.
- App Updates: Check if there’s an update for the app. Developers often release patches for bug fixes.
Expert Insight on Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
Dr. Felix Whiskers, a veterinarian with over a decade of experience in feline health, shares, “Automatic feeders, when used correctly, can be a significant asset in a pet’s health regimen.
They offer consistency and precision in feeding, which is especially beneficial for pets with specific dietary needs or those on a weight management plan.”
Benefits Highlighted by Experts
- Consistency and Routine: Pets thrive on routine, and automatic feeders help establish a consistent feeding schedule. “Knowing exactly when their next meal is coming can reduce anxiety in pets,” notes Dr. Whiskers.
- Portion Control: Overfeeding is a common issue that can lead to obesity in pets. “Automatic feeders like the Asapet allow pet owners to set precise portions, ensuring their pet receives the right amount of food,” explains Dr. Paws, a pet nutritionist.
- Health Monitoring: “An often overlooked benefit of automatic feeders is their role in monitoring your pet’s health. A sudden change in appetite can be an early indicator of health issues. With a feeder, you can track how much your pet is eating,” Dr. Whiskers adds.
- Convenience for Busy Pet Owners: While not a direct health benefit, the convenience of automatic feeders can’t be ignored. They ensure pets are fed on time, even when owners are late or away, reducing the stress on both pets and their owners.
While the benefits are clear, experts also advise on using automatic feeders responsibly. “It’s important to regularly clean the feeder to prevent the build-up of bacteria and old food.
Also, while feeders are great, they’re not a substitute for human interaction. Pets need love and attention beyond just being fed,” Dr. Paws cautions.
Dr. Whiskers recommends, “For those considering an automatic feeder like the Asapet, I’d advise they look for models that are easy to clean, reliable, and offer backup power options.
Also, ensure it matches your pet’s feeding habits and size.”
Pros and Cons of Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
Pros of Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
- Consistency in Feeding: The feeder’s programmable schedule ensures your pet eats the same amount of food at the same time every day. This routine can help manage weight and prevent overeating.
- Peace of Mind for Pet Owners: Whether you’re stuck at work late or away for the weekend, knowing your pet is fed and hydrated can ease a lot of anxiety. It’s like having a reliable pet sitter at your beck and call.
- Portion Control: With adjustable portion sizes, you can tailor your pet’s meals to their specific dietary needs. This feature is a godsend for pets on a strict diet or those prone to overindulgence.
- Dual Functionality: The inclusion of a water fountain alongside the feeder is a standout feature. It ensures your pet stays hydrated with fresh water, mimicking the natural preference of many pets to drink from running water.
- Build Quality and Materials: Made from food-grade, odor-free ABS plastic, the feeder promises safety and durability. Users have noted its sturdy build, capable of withstanding the curious paws and snouts of pets.
Cons of Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder
- Learning Curve: Some users reported a period of adjustment, both for themselves in programming the feeder and for their pets in getting used to the new feeding mechanism.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: While generally user-friendly, keeping the feeder and water fountain clean requires regular maintenance. For busy pet owners, this might be a slight inconvenience.
- Occasional Inconsistencies: A few reviews have mentioned instances of the feeder not dispensing the correct amount of food. Such inconsistencies, though rare, can disrupt a pet’s eating schedule.
- Power Dependency: While the dual power supply feature is a plus, reliance on electricity (and batteries as backup) means there’s always a small chance of failure. In such cases, pets might miss a meal.
- Price Point: For some, the cost of the Asapet feeder, given its advanced features, can be a bit steep. It’s an investment in your pet’s health and your convenience but might not fit everyone’s budget.
Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder Vs Others
Let’s pit the Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder against two other contenders in the market: the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder, and the PetSafe Automatic Two Meal Pet Feeder. Here’s how they stack up:
| Feature/Aspect | Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder | PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Feeder | PetSafe Automatic Two Meal Feeder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4L food, 2L water | 24-cup food reservoir | Two compartments, each holds up to 1.5 cups of food |
| Meals Per Day | Up to 4 meals | Up to 12 meals | Two meals |
| Portion Control | 1-9 servings per meal | 1/8 cup to 4 cups per meal | Fixed compartments |
| Material | Food-grade, odor-free ABS plastic | Not specified, includes stainless steel bowl | Not specified, includes dishwasher-safe tray |
| Special Features | – Double lock design for freshness<br>- Anti-clogging and double filtration<br>- Dual power supply | – App-controlled settings and alerts<br>- “Slow Feed” option<br>- “Feed Now” button<br>- Battery backup | – Countdown dial timer for scheduling<br>- Suitable for dry or semi-moist food |
| Power Supply | Power adapter with battery backup | Wall plug with battery backup | Single AA battery |
| Pros | – Combo of feeder and water dispenser<br>- Flexible feeding schedule<br>- Keeps food fresh<br>- Safe materials<br>- Reliable power backup | – Advanced meal programming<br>- App for control and alerts<br>- “Slow Feed” option<br>- Dishwasher-safe bowl | – Simple to use<br>- Affordable<br>- Dishwasher-safe tray |
| Cons | – Learning curve for setup<br>- Regular maintenance needed<br>- Possible inconsistency in portion dispensing<br>- Relies on power | – Lacks camera or audio<br>- Bowl may detach easily | – Limited to two meals<br>- No ice pack for chilling food |
| Best For | Pet owners looking for a comprehensive feeding and hydration solution with customization and safety features. | Tech-savvy pet owners seeking advanced control and customization of their pet’s feeding schedule, especially for multiple meals throughout the day. | Pet owners needing a straightforward, cost-effective solution for short absences. |
User Testimonials and Reviews
Gathering insights from a wide array of user experiences can offer a well-rounded view of the Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder. Here’s a curated selection of testimonials that paint a vivid picture of life with this device:
Positive Experiences:
“With two large cats and a full-time job, managing their diet was becoming a challenge. The Asapet feeder’s ability to dispense up to 4 meals a day has been a game-changer, helping my cats transition to a healthier diet. Plus, the integrated water fountain means one less thing to worry about. Highly recommend it for anyone with a hectic schedule!”
“Our erratic work hours made it difficult to maintain a consistent feeding schedule for our young cat. The Asapet feeder has been a lifesaver, ensuring he’s fed regularly, which has noticeably improved our sleep and his overall routine. Just wish finding replacement filters was easier.”
“No longer needing to wake up at 5 am to feed my dog has been the biggest relief. The feeder and water dispenser work flawlessly, keeping my pet fed and hydrated without disrupting our sleep.”
Mixed Feelings:
“I love the idea of this feeder and water combo, but setting up the feeding times has been a bit of a puzzle. It’s tricky confirming if my settings are saved correctly. A more intuitive interface or an app would make this perfect.”
Critical Feedback:
“After a few months, the feeder randomly stopped dispensing food. Discovering my pet wasn’t getting her meals broke my heart. While it initially seemed like a fantastic investment, reliability has become a concern.”
“When I needed replacement filters, reaching out to customer support turned into a dead end. It’s frustrating when such a crucial part of the product’s maintenance is overlooked.”
“While the feeder has been great for my smaller pet, the portion sizes don’t seem to accommodate larger breeds as well. It’s something potential buyers with big dogs should consider.”
Conclusion
After delving into the Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder’s features, and user testimonials, and evaluating it against other products on the market, it becomes clear that this feeder stands out for its combination of food and water dispensing, portion control accuracy, and ease of use.
While it shines in providing pets with a consistent feeding schedule and has generally been well-received for its design and functionality, potential buyers should weigh considerations such as the need for regular maintenance and the mixed experiences with customer support.
Suitable for pet owners seeking a reliable, dual-function solution to their pets’ nutritional needs, especially for those with busy lifestyles, the Asapet feeder offers good value for its price.
It’s important to note that this review is unbiased and independent, with no affiliations to the Asapet brand or any competing products, aiming solely to provide insight to help pet owners make an informed decision.
Frequently Ask Question
1. Can the Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder accommodate both dry and wet food?
The Asapet is designed primarily for dry food, with its mechanism ensuring the dry food remains crisp and fresh. It’s not suitable for wet food due to the risk of clogging and spoiling.
2. Is the portion size adjustable for pets with specific dietary needs?
Yes, the feeder allows for flexible timing feeding, with portion sizes ranging from 1-9 servings per meal. This feature ensures you can tailor the diet according to your pet’s specific dietary needs.
3. How does the feeder ensure the food stays fresh?
The grain storage tank of the Asapet feeder has a double-lock design and is equipped with a desiccant bag to keep the food dry, crisp, delicious, and safe, preventing spoilage and waste.
4. What if there’s a power outage? Will my pet still get fed?
The feeder features a dual power supply system, meaning it can operate on a power adapter or battery backup. In the event of a power failure, the battery backup ensures your pet continues to receive their meals on schedule.
5. How easy is it to set up the Asapet Automatic Cat Feeder?
Most users find the setup process straightforward, thanks to the intuitive design and clear instructions. The inclusion of a QR code for app download further simplifies the process for tech-savvy pet owners.
