I have a confession. Every time I prepare for a trip, whether for business or pleasure I feel like I’m abandoning my furry royalty. I’ve been a worrier since birth, and sometimes my mind goes to the weirdest places. Is Duke judging me for leaving? Will Duchess forget I exist after being gone for three days?*
But what if I told you there’s a way to travel guilt-free and still ensure your little diva (or divo) is well-fed, entertained, and pampered? Enter the world of cat tech—where gadgets and apps make life easier for busy people who love their cats but also enjoy things like, oh, I don’t know, sipping mai-tai’s in Hawaii?
I’ve scoured the earth (ok, the internet) for the best tech to automate cat feeding, hydrating, grooming, playing and monitoring so that you can enjoy your travels while Fluffy lives like a tech-savvy queen in your absence.
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1. Automated Feeding for the Gourmet Cat
Have you ever decided to hang out after work, and while in the middle of having a great time, realized the time and thought, “I gotta go home and feed Zeus.” You don’t ever have to experience that again. Automated cat feeders are here to save the day. These cat feeders schedule and portion out meals so that your kitty doesn’t get hangry.
- Features: This nifty little feeder can hold up to 4 liters of food and can be programmed for up to 6 meals a day. It even has voice recording, so you can call your cat to dinner remotely (not that she’ll listen, but it’s the thought that counts).
- Why Buy It: Perfect for travel because you can control portions and times, ensuring your cat stays on a healthy feeding schedule.
- Cons: Battery backup is good, but what if the battery dies? Slight panic may ensue.
- Features: It holds up to 6.5 liters of dry food and comes with app control, voice recording, and feeding schedules. Plus, it looks futuristic enough to belong on a spaceship.
- Why Buy It: Ideal for both long weekends and extended vacations. It’s like having your own digital butler—minus the British accent.
- Cons: The app can sometimes be glitchy. But hey, it’s still smarter than your cat.
2. Hydrating: Because Cats Have Standards
Is your cat too good for tap water? Do you feel like you’re in a toxic relationship with your cat’s water bowl? Then you need a tech-savvy water fountain that keeps your cat hydrated without giving you the side-eye for leaving stale water.
- Features: A whisper-quiet pump and a filter to keep the water fresh and clean. Your cat gets a steady stream of clean water, and you get fewer trips to the sink.
- Why Buy It: It keeps water moving, which encourages cats to drink more and helps prevent kidney issues.
- Cons: The filter needs replacing regularly, which means planning ahead when you’re packing for your trip.
- Features: A 2.8L capacity with a triple filtration system. It’s like a Brita for your cat, but better.
- Why Buy It: Your picky cat will love it, and so will your peace of mind. Fresh water, even while you’re sipping cocktails on the beach.
- Cons: Cats may turn into hydration snobs, refusing any other water source.
3. Self-Grooming: Keep Your Cat Fluffy Without Lifting a Finger
Cats are fairly independent when it comes to grooming, but that doesn’t mean they won’t appreciate a little help. Self-grooming tools can reduce shedding and keep your cat’s coat in tip-top shape while you’re away.
- Features: This wall-mounted self-grooming brush lets your cat scratch and groom themselves whenever the mood strikes. You can install it on corners or walls at their height.
- Why Buy It: It keeps loose fur at bay, reducing shedding and matting. Your cat gets a mini massage, and your furniture stays a little less hairy.
- Cons: Some cats need encouragement to use it—cue the catnip.
- Features: This cute, little version of a cat self-groomer features firm bristles that cats love rubbing against, and it’s also a catnip feeder.
- Why Buy It: Your cat gets to be a little more independent, and you won’t come home to fur-covered couches.
- Cons: Not all cats are immediate fans, but a little coaxing (with treats) usually works.
4. Playing: Because the Zoomies Don’t Take a Vacation
Even when you’re not home, your cat needs to stay entertained to avoid turning your home into a racetrack. Interactive toys can keep them physically and mentally stimulated, so you don’t come home to destroyed curtains.
- Features: This interactive toy moves unpredictably, with a feather attachment that mimics prey. It’s designed to keep your cat’s hunting instincts engaged.
- Why Buy It: Your cat will be entertained for hours, even if you’re not there to dangle the string toy. It’s like a workout and playtime in one.
- Cons: It needs to be charged, but it offers plenty of entertainment when fully powered.
PetSafe Cheese Interactive Electronic Cat Toy
- Features: This interactive cat toy appeals to your kitty’s natural hunting instinct with peekaboo mice.
- Why Buy It: It’s great for keeping your cat mentally engaged and active. Plus, the unpredictable nature of the toy will prevent boredom.
- Cons: Battery-operated, no rechargeable option.
5. Monitoring Your Cat: Because We’re All a Little Obsessed
Even though I love a sunny beach vacation, I do miss my cats and I want to check in (multiple times a day) to make sure they’re not overthrowing my household or planning world domination (Ha! When don’t they, you say?). Luckily, there are pet cameras for that!
Kasa Indoor Pan/Tilt Smart Security Camera
- Features: It offers 2K HD video, motion detection, and night vision. Plus, you can pan and tilt the camera to get a full view of the room.
- Why Buy It: You can monitor your cat in real-time, talk to them through the camera, and ease your mind while you’re on the go.
- Cons: Your cat may not respond to your voice, but at least you’ll know they’re safe.
Wansview Wireless Security Camera
- Features: 1080P HD, motion detection, and two-way audio. You can talk to your cat—or just quietly stalk them while they’re napping.
- Why Buy It: It’s affordable and gets the job done. You’ll feel like a secret agent watching your cat’s every move.
- Cons: Sometimes the app can be glitchy, but hey, it’s still a great way to spy on your fluffball.
Travel Guilt-Free With Cat Tech
Gone are the days of feeling like a terrible cat parent just because you want to enjoy life outside your home. With the right cat tech, both you and your cat can live your best lives. So go ahead—book that trip and get yourself some cat tech to handle the rest!