Can an Automatic Feeder Handle Wet Cat Food?

Yes, but only certain types. Most automatic feeders are built for dry food, and putting wet food in them won't work. If your cat eats pouches or tins, you need a feeder designed for it.

Why most feeders are dry food only

The common hopper-style feeder stores kibble in a tall container and drops measured portions through a rotating mechanism. Wet food is soft, sticky and spoils, so it can't sit in a hopper or pass through that mechanism. If a listing doesn't clearly say it handles wet food, assume it doesn't.

How wet food feeders work

Feeders that take wet food usually use one of two designs:

• Rotating trays. A round feeder with several lidded compartments. You fill each one, and a timer turns the tray so one compartment opens at each meal time.
• Timed lids. One or two bowls under lids that spring open at a set time. These suit a single extra meal, for example breakfast while you sleep in.

Microchip feeders, which only open for a registered cat, also often take wet food. They control who eats rather than when.

Keeping wet food fresh

This is the main limit on how long a wet food feeder can cover. Some feeders have a slot for an ice pack under the tray to keep food cool. Even so:

• Follow the guidance on your cat food's packaging about how long it can be left out.
• Keep the feeder out of direct sunlight and away from radiators.
• Clean every compartment after each cycle, because leftover food quickly smells and attracts flies.

Mixing wet and dry

Many owners use a timed dry food feeder for most meals and serve wet food themselves when they're home. If your cat needs wet food for a medical reason, ask your vet how best to schedule it.

What to check before buying

• Does the listing clearly say it handles wet food?
• How many meals can it hold, and is there space for an ice pack?
• Do the compartments come out for washing, and are they dishwasher-safe?
• Will your cat be able to pry the lid open early?
• Does it run on batteries, and how will you know when they're low?

Browse automatic cat feeders, or read how to choose an automatic cat feeder for the wider picture.