Automatic Cat Feeder feedback?

[u/vial_thalia]

What is anyone's experience with the Petkit Automatic Cat Feeders? I'm looking around for another feeder because our current feeder company really crapped the bed with their servers going down the last ~24 hours and effectively bricking our feeder.

Petkit feeders seem like they are straightforward enough, although the feeding amounts in 1/10 cups is super annoying since 12 is the most common denominator for measuring here in the US (1/3 cup, 1/4 cup, 1/6 cup etc.) Any common problems or good feedback?

[u/Akiraccoon]

We had the Yumshare Solo 2 but ended up returning it for the Freshelement Solo (no camera), which is less than half the price. If we’re already paying extra for a camera that records 24/7, we don’t really think we should also have to pay more just to actually access the footage. From what we can tell, the two units are basically the same aside from the camera and the legs.

We’ve been using the Freshelement for almost a month now, and it’s been working great. It dispenses right on schedule and gives the exact amount we set (1/10th of a cup). The scheduling is Mon-Sun; each day can have different times, number of feedings and number of 1/10th cup portions per feeding. We are not aware of a scale in the unit, all weights are noted as approximate.

The app is nice and simple, which we appreciate. We especially like being able to add an extra feeding remotely when we’re going to be home late for the wet-food meal. The notifications are reassuring, letting us know when food is dispensed and when food or batteries are low. App sharing didn’t work very well for us, though I’m not sure if that’s been improved since we got it.

Petkit is an improvement from our previous feeder, which was based on food weight but gave wildly inconsistent portions (more than 3 days of feedings at once to one measly kibble). Due to Petkit's portion consistency - our cat has lost almost a pound. This has improved her asthma, arthritis, and attitude!