By Ethan BrooksUpdated November 2026
Shopping for a petmate automatic pet feeder usually comes down to one question: which model fits how your pets eat and how your household runs? Some people need a gravity feeder that keeps a bowl topped up for a few days. Others want a timed unit that dispenses measured meals while they are at work. This guide compares five Petmate options against the criteria that matter most in daily use: meal capacity, how food is delivered, bowl design and cleaning, suitability for dogs versus cats, and how straightforward the setup is. The picks are based on manufacturer specifications, brand reputation and patterns in owner feedback. None of the units were tested in a lab or by the author.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallPetmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat FeederView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for large dogsPetmate Replendish Automatic Dog FeederView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for multi-pet homesPetmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog FeederView on Amazon - 4
Best for timed mealsCat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet FeederView on Amazon - 5
Best budget pickPetmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with MicrobanView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder | Households with dogs and cats that want a larger reservoir | 12 lb capacity, made in USA |
| Petmate Replendish Automatic Dog Feeder | Larger dogs and owners who want fewer refills | Gravity-fed stainless steel bowl with Microban protection |
| Petmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder | Multi-pet homes needing a bigger food supply | 10 lb capacity, made in USA |
| Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder | Cats and small dogs on a timed schedule | Two meals per day with 48-hour timers and ice pack |
| Petmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with Microban | Owners who want a simple, low-cost gravity feeder | Compact 2 lb capacity with antimicrobial protection |
Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder
Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder Pearl Tan, 12 lb, Made in USA
Best for: Households with dogs and cats that want a larger reservoir
This gravity-style feeder suits homes where food needs to last several days between refills, especially if more than one pet shares the same station. Its larger capacity reduces how often you need to top it up.
Key specs
- Capacity: 12 lb (per listing)
- Made in USA (per listing)
- Gravity-fed dispensing from a sealed reservoir
Pros
- Large food reserve for multi-day gaps between refills
- Works for both dog and cat kibble sizes
- Keeps food sealed from humidity and pests
Cons
- Bulky footprint compared with compact gravity feeders
- Not a timed feeder, so portions are controlled by the pet’s access, not a schedule
Bottom line: A good first choice for owners who want a large, low-maintenance food supply for dogs and cats together.
View on AmazonPetmate Replendish Automatic Dog Feeder
Petmate Replendish Automatic Dog Feeder, Microban Protection, 2lbs | Gravity Fed Feeder with Rust Resistant Stainless Steel Bowl, Wide Mouth Opening for Easy Cleaning
Best for: Larger dogs and owners who want fewer refills
This gravity-fed model is built around a stainless steel bowl and a wide mouth opening, which makes filling and cleaning easier. It is aimed at dog owners who want the bowl to refill itself as the dog eats.
Key specs
- Capacity: 2 lb (per listing)
- Rust-resistant stainless steel bowl (per listing)
- Microban protection (per listing)
- Wide mouth opening for cleaning (per listing)
Pros
- Stainless steel bowl resists rust and is easy to wipe clean
- Wide opening simplifies refilling and scrubbing
- Antimicrobial treatment is a plus for hygiene-minded owners
Cons
- Small 2 lb reservoir means more frequent refills for big eaters
- Gravity feeding gives no portion control if the dog grazes
Bottom line: Best for dog owners who prioritize an easy-clean bowl and steady refill, provided the dog is not a heavy eater.
View on AmazonPetmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder
Petmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder, Pearl Peacock Blue, 10lb | Made in USA
Best for: Multi-pet homes needing a bigger food supply
This larger Replendish model targets households feeding both cats and dogs from one unit. The bigger reservoir suits owners who prefer to fill the feeder less often.
Key specs
- Capacity: 10 lb (per listing)
- Made in USA (per listing)
- Gravity-fed Replendish design
Pros
- Substantial 10 lb capacity for multi-day coverage
- Suitable for both cats and dogs
- Gravity design needs no batteries or programming
Cons
- Larger footprint needs more counter or floor space
- No scheduled dispensing, so it does not control meal timing
Bottom line: A practical pick for mixed-pet households that want a large reserve without electronics.
View on AmazonCat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder
Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder, for Cats & Small Dogs, 800g / 1.78 lb | 48-Hour Quartz Analogue Timers, 400g Bowls, Ice Pack, No Apps or WiFi, Easy to Set Up, Dishwaser-Safe
Best for: Cats and small dogs on a timed schedule
Unlike the gravity models above, this feeder dispenses measured meals on a timer. It suits owners who want predictable portions, especially for cats prone to overeating or for small dogs on a set schedule.
Key specs
- Capacity: 800 g / 1.78 lb (per listing)
- Two-meal programming with 48-hour quartz analogue timers (per listing)
- 400 g bowls (per listing)
- Ice pack for food freshness (per listing)
- No apps or WiFi; dishwasher-safe parts (per listing)
Pros
- Timed portions help manage calorie intake
- No app or WiFi setup needed
- Dishwasher-safe bowls simplify cleaning
Cons
- Small capacity suits only one or two meals per day for light eaters
- Analogue timers offer less flexibility than app-based feeders
Bottom line: The right choice for owners who want portion discipline on a schedule for cats or small dogs.
View on AmazonPetmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with Microban
Petmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with Microban, Pearl Peacock Blue, 2lbs | Made in USA
Best for: Owners who want a simple, low-cost gravity feeder
This compact gravity model offers a no-frills way to keep a bowl filled. It works well as a secondary feeder, a travel-friendly unit, or a starter option for a single small pet.
Key specs
- Capacity: 2 lb (per listing)
- Microban protection (per listing)
- Made in USA (per listing)
Pros
- Compact footprint fits small spaces
- Simple design with no electronics to fail
- Antimicrobial treatment supports hygiene
Cons
- Small reservoir needs frequent refills
- No portion control or scheduling
Bottom line: A sensible pick for one small pet or as a backup feeder, not for households needing long gaps between refills.
View on AmazonBuying Guide
Capacity and refill interval
Estimate how much food your pets eat per day, then divide your feeder’s capacity by that number. A 2 lb reservoir may last only a day or two for a medium dog, while a 10 lb or 12 lb unit can cover several days. Match capacity to how often you can realistically refill. For reference on pet food storage and handling, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidance on pet food.
Good picks for this: Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder, Petmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder
Gravity feeding versus timed dispensing
Gravity feeders release food as the bowl empties, which suits pets that eat steadily. Timed feeders dispense set portions at scheduled times, which helps with weight management. Decide whether you need portion control or simply a steady supply.
Good picks for this: Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder, Petmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with Microban
Pet size and kibble fit
Check that the bowl and dispensing opening suit your pet’s size and your kibble’s shape. Large kibble can jam narrow openings, and small pets may struggle to reach into a deep bowl. Look at the listed bowl dimensions before buying.
Good picks for this: Petmate Replendish Automatic Dog Feeder, Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder
Bowl material and hygiene
Stainless steel bowls resist odors and are easier to sanitize than many plastics. Antimicrobial treatments are a useful extra, but they do not replace regular washing. Choose a wide opening for easier scrubbing.
Good picks for this: Petmate Replendish Automatic Dog Feeder, Petmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with Microban
Multi-pet households
If several animals share one feeder, a larger reservoir reduces refill chores. Consider whether one feeder can serve all pets without one animal monopolizing it. Separate stations may be needed for pets with different diets.
Good picks for this: Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder, Petmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder
Durability and build
Look for sealed reservoirs that keep out moisture and pests, and sturdy bases that do not tip. Made-in-USA labeling is a specification you can verify from the listing, but it does not by itself indicate durability.
Good picks for this: Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder, Petmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder
Setup and maintenance
Simple mechanical feeders need only cleaning and refilling. Timed models require programming and battery or power checks. Dishwasher-safe parts shorten cleaning time. Plan a routine of washing bowls at least weekly and checking for food spoilage.
Good picks for this: Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder, Petmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with Microban
FAQ
Is a petmate automatic pet feeder safe for cats?
Yes, several Petmate models are designed for cats as well as dogs, including the Petmate Replendish Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder. Choose a bowl and opening that suit your cat’s size, and monitor eating habits. If your cat has a medical condition affecting appetite or weight, consult a veterinarian before changing feeding routines.
Can a gravity feeder control portions?
Not precisely. Gravity feeders release food as the bowl empties, so the pet decides how much to eat. If you need measured meals, a timed model such as the Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder is a better fit.
How often should I clean an automatic pet feeder?
Wash bowls and reservoirs at least once a week, and more often in warm or humid conditions. Discard old food regularly, since moisture and oils can encourage bacterial growth. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for each part.
Are Petmate feeders dishwasher safe?
Some parts of certain models are dishwasher-safe, as noted for the Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder. Check the product listing and manual for the specific model before placing parts in a dishwasher.
How much food should I put in the reservoir?
Fill the reservoir to its listed capacity, but only with food your pet eats within a safe window after opening. Keep the reservoir sealed to limit moisture and pests. Confirm your pet’s daily intake with your veterinarian.
Do I need Wi-Fi for these feeders?
Not for the models in this list. The Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder explicitly has no apps or Wi-Fi, and the Petmate gravity feeders are mechanical. This can be an advantage if you prefer simple, offline devices.
Which Petmate feeder is best for a first-time owner?
The Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder offers a large, low-maintenance reservoir and is straightforward to use. Beginners with cats or small dogs who need portion control may prefer the timed Cat Mate 2-Meal model.
Conclusion
For a large, low-maintenance food supply covering dogs and cats, the Petmate Pet Cafe Feeder Dog and Cat Feeder is the most versatile pick here. Dog owners who value an easy-clean stainless bowl should look at the Petmate Replendish Automatic Dog Feeder. Multi-pet homes will find the bigger Replendish Cat and Dog Feeder useful. If portion control matters, the Cat Mate 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder is the only timed option in this list. The Petmate Replendish Gravity Feeder with Microban suits a single small pet or a backup role. Match your choice to your pets’ eating habits and how often you can refill.
Sources
- Guidance on pet food safety, storage and labeling (fda.gov)
- Veterinary guidance on feeding routines and pet nutrition (avma.org)
- Pet care resources on feeding, hydration and kibble handling (aspca.org)
Related reading
- Petmate Automatic Pet Feeder Manual: A Practical Guide (2026)
- Yuposl Mushroom Automatic Pet Feeder: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
- Yakry Automatic Pet Feeder: 5 Best Picks Compared (2026)
About Ethan Brooks
Ethan Brooks is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our everyday pet gear guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
