Programmable 12-meal feeder with slow feed mode for cats and small dogs
PetSafe Simply Feed: The most flexible meal scheduler with a useful slow-feed mode
The PetSafe Simply Feed at $50 offers more meal scheduling slots than most automatic feeders — up to 12 meals per day — and adds a slow feed mode that dispenses food in small increments over 15 minutes rather than all at once. For cats and small dogs that eat too fast or pets on strictly controlled meal timing, these features justify the choice over simpler feeders.
What works
Twelve daily meal slots is the most scheduling flexibility available in this price range. Most feeders offer 4–6 meals. For pets on a veterinarian-prescribed feeding schedule that requires frequent small portions, or for owners who want to spread feeding across the full day, 12 slots provide room that competitors don't.
The slow feed mode is genuinely useful for fast eaters. Instead of dumping the full portion at once, the feeder dispenses it gradually over 15 minutes, reducing the speed of eating without requiring a separate slow-feed bowl. For pets prone to vomiting after eating too quickly, this can make a real difference.
The dishwasher-safe bowl is a practical detail — feeder bowls need regular cleaning to prevent bacteria buildup, and being able to run it through the dishwasher simplifies maintenance.
What doesn't
The conveyor belt dispensing mechanism can jam with certain kibble sizes and shapes. Larger, irregularly shaped treats or kibble are more likely to get stuck than standard round or cross-cut pieces. This isn't a universal failure mode, but it's a known limitation worth testing with your specific food brand.
No wifi connectivity is a gap for traveling pet owners who want remote scheduling adjustments.
Who should buy this
The pet owner whose cat or dog eats too quickly and needs portion control over time, or any pet whose veterinarian recommends frequent small meals throughout the day. The combination of 12 meal slots and slow feed mode is unique in this price range.
Who should look elsewhere
For microchip-selective feeding in a multi-pet household, the SureFeed ($140) is purpose-built. For large-capacity feeding of a big cat or multiple pets, the WOPET 6L ($55) has more hopper volume.