Month: February 2016

Buying an Automatic Cat Litter Box? Read The Guide First

Buying an Automatic Cat Litter Box? Read This Guide First!

Owning a cat has numerous psychological and even physiological benefits for humans. But cleaning up cat poop surely isn’t one of them. That’s why you might want to invest in an automatic cat litter box.

It is scientifcally proven that cat owners have lower blood pressure and fewer chances to become depressed. Also, scientists have discovered that cats purr at the frequency around 25 Hz which stimulates bone and tissue regeneration. Plus, kitties are super cute, so it is guaranteed that they will put a smile on your face after a stressful day at work. As soon as they start rubbing against your legs and exposing their fluffy belly, you will forget about all your problems. Except one. The dirty litter box waiting for you.

Nobody likes cleaning litter. We are all aware that there are many harmful bacteria around and in the litter box, so feline experts, veterinarians, and designers joined their forces to make your life much easier. They developed self-cleaning litter boxes that will do this unpleasant daily task for you.

Reasons to Buy an Automatic Cat Litter Box

First of all, even if you are not squeamish by nature, automatic cat litter box will keep your home odor free while you are away from home. You will be carefree, knowing that your cat is not thinking outside of the box. Kitties are very tidy, so if they notice that their “toilet” is smelly, they will do their thing elsewhere. You can’t blame them, basic hygiene is necessary for felines as well as for humans.

Secondly, there are many different dangerous microorganisms crawling around your cats’ litter box. This can be especially harmful to pregnant women and small children, due to their weak immune system. Toxoplasmosis and similar parasitic diseases can be easily avoided just by staying away from the feline’s feces. Let the machine do the dirty work to keep you safe from this kind of infections.

Knowing that there are so many different models of automatic litter boxes on the market, you can pamper yourself and your cat(s) with this innovative way of taking care of the litter. Using a scoop to pick the clumps and feces would be similar to manually washing the laundry or dishes. If you know that there is a way to automatize this boring daily activity, there is no a single reason to continue in an old fashion manner.

Picking the Right Automatic Cat Litter Box

Automatic litter boxes come with many different features.  Picking the right one can be a little bit tricky. There are numerous factors that can influence your decision like size, shape, noise level, type of litter, warranty, price etc. Some models are very simple and easy to program while others offer more complex solutions. Most of them have built-in kitty sensors that will automatically start the cleaning cycle several minutes after your cat leaves the unit. Kitties’ size and preferences can also be a limitation because some models are not suitable for larger cats. If your household has multiple cats, their number should also be taken into a consideration.

Here is a list of questions that will help you decide what kind of automatic cat litter box to buy:

  • How big is your apartment?
  • Is your cat already accustomed to a certain type of litter?
  • How old is your cat?
  • Is your cat healthy?
  • Is your cat large or small?
  • How many cats do you have?

The Size of Your Apartment

If you have a huge house or a very large apartment, you can skip this part. Any type of automatic cat litter box will do the trick. However, if you live in a studio, or in one bedroom apartment that can be a limiting factor when picking a perfect solution for your cats’ needs.

Look for a silent option that is not bulky in size, like ScoopFree Ultra Automatic Cat Litter Box. It has a short cleaning cycle that lasts less than one minute. It also comes with a privacy hood, so you will not have to watch your cat while doing her thing. Some automatic litter boxes have a sleep mode that delays the cleaning cycle, to make sure that you will not be disturbed during the night.

Different Types of Cat Litter

The CatGenie automatic litterbox features re-usable, washable litter. It's a complete hands-off solution as the litterbox does all the cleaning for you.
The CatGenie features re-usable, washable litter. It’s a complete hands-off solution as the litterbox does all the cleaning for you.

There are three main options when it comes to the cat litter: clumping, non-clumping and silica gel (also known as the crystal litter). If you know your cats’ preferences, it can make the transition to automatic cat litter box so much easier. You can also choose the innovative CatGenie Self Washing Self Flushing Cat Box that uses washable granules instead of the standard cat litter. This is the first cat ‘toilet’ on the market. Granules are long lasting so you will not have to buy, carry or change the litter ever again.

 

Want to know more? Read our full CatGenie Review here

 

Cats’ age and health condition

Cats usually hunt in the dark so they have a very good night vision. But as they age, this function weakens and they might need some help when orienting during the night. If you own an older cat, buy an automatic cat litter box with the night light built-in, to make sure that she can find it in the dark before it’s too late. This will prevent her from pooping and urinating somewhere else.

scoopfree automatic litter box 2
The ScoopFree keeps track of your cat’s health too.

If you are concerned about your kitties’ health, choose an electronic litter box with so-called health counter that tracks the frequency of usage, like ScoopFree Ultra Automatic Cat Litter Box, for example. This will help you notice any changes in your cats’ metabolism and inform the vet timely. Early symptoms of certain health conditions can easily go unnoticed until severe complications start to appear. This is why it is very important to keep track of your cats’ daily routine.

Want tot know more? Read our ScoopFree Review

Size does Matter

 

The Litter Robot III Open Air Automatic Cat Litter Box is a good option if you have large and/or overweight cats.
The Litter Robot III Open Air – Good option for overweight & large cats.

If your cat is larger than the standard size, some automatic litter boxes just might not fit. On the other hand, there are certain models, like the Litter-Robot III Open-Air automatic cat box, that are suitable even for felines that weigh up to 20 pounds. If you own a small kitty lighter than the 5 pounds, you should choose the electronic cat box with the manual start option because she might not be heavy or tall enough to activate the cat sensors. Some models have cat sensors that detect kitties’ eyes while others are triggered by the weight change after the cat leaves the box.

Want to know more? Read our Litter Robot III Open Air Review

Helping Your Cat with a Transition to an Automatic Cat Litter Box

Cats are creatures of habits, so it might take some time and patience for your kitty to become accustomed to her new gadget. Here are a few tips and tricks to help her accept the self-cleaning litter box:

 

  • Use cat treats to award your cat after she goes to the new litter box for the first time.
  • Don’t throw away her old tray until she accepts the new automatic version.
  • Instead, put them close to each other to let the cat now that this part of the room is her toilet area.
  • Put the electric litter box away from your cats’ food and water.
  • Some kitties are timid, so consider placing her new litter box away from the front door. She might get frightened if a strange person enters the room while she does her thing. It can make her reject the automated litter box and start defecating elsewhere.

Almost every reliable manufacturer offers 90 days money back guarantee just in case that you and your kitty are not satisfied with the product. You have nothing to lose. Find an adequate automatic cat litter box and give it a shot. You will be amazed after you discover how fun and easy cat ownership can be now that you don’t have to scoop the poop and smell the used litter. The machine will do everything for you.

ScoopFree Litter Box Review

Save time and stop cleaning the cat litter box. What? Yes. Really! The ScoopFree automatic litter box does all the work for you.

ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter Box Review

scoopfree automatic litter box 2
Click here to see price on Amazon

If you have a cat, you are probably putting your nose and hands near your cat’s toilet at least once a day. Harmful bacteria and the litter dust are flying around the house every time the cat starts digging before she uses the litter box. To make sure that you will never have to go through this routine again, experts and feline lovers educated at MIT created the miraculous ScoopFree Ultra Self-Cleaning Litter Box.

This revolutionary auto litter box will also be your little helper while you are away from home, making sure that your house or apartment stays odor-free and preventing the litter dust from spilling around.

Product Description

scoopfree electric litter box
Click here to see price on Amazon

The ScoopFree is fully automated, super simple and easy to use. Its bottom part is actually a removable tray cartridge filled with Premium Blue Crystal Litter. This crystal litter will immediately absorb the urine and successfully control the odor. Solid waste will be eliminated by built-in rake and locked into a special covered trap to prevent the unpleasant smell. The self-cleaning mechanism has an adjustable rake delay and it can be set to activate 5, 10 or 15 minutes after the cat has left the unit. The cleaning cycle is very short and it lasts less than one minute. Every 20-30 days you will have to change the cartridge by pulling the tray out and replacing with the new one.

The ScoopFree has several innovative features that will help both you and your cat. It comes with a privacy hood, so your cat can feel isolated and more comfortable while doing her thing. It also has a very useful health counter that tracks the frequency of use. Many feline health conditions are related to excessive urinating and defecating. This counter will help you notice changes in your cats’ daily routine, so you will be able to consult with a vet and prevent or treat the condition timely.

scoopfree automatic litter box
Click here to see price on Amazon

You will not need tools or manuals to assemble the ScoopFree litter box.

Even a little girl can do it. Just take the unit out of the box, put it on top of the cartridge, gently press to click and plug it in. After you set the rake delay, this automatic litter box will be ready for your cat to use.

 

 

Scoopfree official video

Click here to see price on Amazon

Features

  • Self-cleaning and fully automated electronic litter box
  • Easy to assemble
  • Disposable tray filled with Premium Blue Crystal Litter
  • Adjustable cleaning delay
  • Comes with privacy hood for the comfort of your cat
  • User-friendly control panel
  • Health counter to help you track the frequency of use
  • Locked compartment for solid waste
  • Dimensions without the hood: 19” H x 27-3/8” L x 7” H
  • Height with the hood included is 16-3/4”
  • Litter area surface is 14” x 14” square

Warranty

The ScoopFree comes with 90 days money back guarantee and 1-year product replacement guarantee. If your cat can’t adjust to crystal litter in three months, just return the product.

The Good

  • No need to touch and scoop the litter
  • Disposable trays are easy to change
  • Trays should be changed only ones in 20-30 days if you have one cat
  • Premium Blue Crystal Litter absorbs the urine quickly and controls the odor
  • Health counter will inform you how often a cat used the auto litter box
  • There will be much less litter dust around the unit
  • Cleaning cycle lasts under the one minute
  • Rake is carefully designed and have a cat-safe shape
  • Long power cable

The Bad

  • If you have more than two cats, it is recommended to have more than one box
  • Cats like to dig and create piles, so it can stop the rake from functioning properly
  • The litter area can be a bit small for larger cats
  • If the cats are used to classic litter, it might take some time for them to accommodate to the crystal litter
  • Softer waste can sometimes get stuck in the rake

 

Conclusion

scoopfree litter box
Click here to see price on Amazon

Cleaning the litter box has never been easier. The ScoopFree will change your unpleasant daily task into an easy monthly routine. Plus, you will not have to touch the dirty litter and scoop the clumps and waste. Once in 20-30 days, when it’s time to change the tray, lift the upper part of the unit, remove the cartridge, cover it and throw it away. Then slide under another tray with fresh crystal and that’s it. You will be able to forget about your cats’ litter box during next few weeks, except when you check the health counter. Just set the rake delay to 5, 10 or 15 minutes, and fully automated cleaning cycle will take care of everything. No more odor, litter dust and dirty work in your house.

CatGenie Self-Cleaing & Self Flushing Litter Box Review

If you own a cat, you probably spend at least several minutes a day on scooping the clumps and poop from the litter box. Plus, you have to clean the dust and dirt kicked out to the floor.

Save time and avoid smelly odors by investing in a fully automated solution, like the CatGenie Automatic Litter Box.

CatGenie Self-Washing Self-Flushing Cat Box Review

 

The Catgenie is an electric, fully automated toilet for your kittens. You can check it out on www.smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/
Check for price on Amazon

The CatGenie Self-Washing Self-Flushing Cat Box will remove all litter-related things
from your to-do list. It is the best automatic cat litter box which flushes like a toilet and removes the waste directly to the drain.

It is the best automatic cat litter box which flushes like a toilet and removes the waste directly to the drain.

You will not have to touch, clean, smell or buy the cat litter as long as you have this revolutionary auto cat litter box.

Product description

The CatGenie litter box is filled with special washable plastic granules that imitate the real cat litter. When your cat does uses the littter box, the liquid will instantly drain down into the reservoir at the bottom of the box. At same time, the waste will be removed into the hopper with a built-in scoop. After the flushing, the urine and poop will be mixed with the SaniSolution and flushed out of your home. One cartridge can hold enough SaniSolution for at least 120 flushes. Finally, the granules will be automatically dried with a hot air and ready for the next use. There will be no unpleasant smells and bacteria all over the house.
The cleaning cycle can be activated in three different ways. You can set a “Cat Start” using cat sensors which will detect cats’ eyes and start the cycle ten minutes after she leaves the box. You will make significant savings in SaniSolution in this mode. One cartage will be enough for even 240 flushes. Another option is to choose an “Auto Start” and set it to clean the box from one to four times per day. The CatGenie Self-Washing Self-Flushing litter box doesn’t have a clock built in, so you will have to set up this option in a particular moment of time. For example, if you want the cleaning cycle to start every day at noon, you will have to activate it at noon for the first time. After that, it will be done automatically every 24 hours. To start the cleaning cycle manually, just choose “Push Start” and the auto litter box will be flushed only when you push the button.

catgenie set up
Check for price on Amazon

The CatGenie litter box comes with a hose adapter so it can be easily connected to a cold water line.  The sewer hose will have to be placed on the toilet rim or into the laundry waste drain, so it can remove the waste down the sewer line. You will not need any tools to set up this amazing non-litter cat box, but for your comfort you can use a pair of pliers or a wrench.

 

 

 

Features

  • Dimensions: 17” wide in the back, 19” wide in the front, 24” deep and 21” high
  • Weight: about 25 pounds
  • Delivered with sanitizer cartridge and washable granules
  • Dome and sidewalls option (additional), to prevent the granules from spilling around the house
  • Suitable for cats older than six months of age
  • Not suitable for large cats
  • Cleaning cycle lasts for 34 minutes – 17 for flushing and 17 for drying
  • It comes with a “Cat Acclimation Guide” that can help your kitty get used to this product
  • Not recommended if you have more than 2 cats

Warranty

The CatGenie Self-Washing Self-Flushing Litter Box has a 90 days money back guarantee, just in case you are not satisfied with a product. It also has a two years guarantee on parts and labor. Well-educated cat lovers from the CatGenie customer support team will promptly answer all your questions.

Well-educated cat lovers from the CatGenie customer support team will promptly answer all your questions.

The Good

  • Fully automated cat “toilet”
  • Easy to set up. Comes with an instruction manual.
  • Easy to program; cleaning cycles can be programmed in three different ways
  • Sleep time for 10 hours
  • Washable plastic granules that have the texture similar to a real litter, so the cat can enjoy in digging and covering
  • Non-absorbent and hypoallergenic permanent granules that never need changing
  • Environment-friendly and safe for cats
  • Both SaniSolution and granules are bio-degradable
  • The waste goes directly to the sewer line
  • Reliable high-quality product

The Bad

  • Not fully assembled when delivered
  • It is a bit loud, so it’s the best to keep it in the bathroom
  • Not appropriate for large cats and kitties younger than six months of age
  • Doesn’t have a built-in clock, so you will have to set it in a certain moment of time
  • You might need additional parts if your hook up system is not standard
  • Doesn’t work well if your pet has diarrhea

Conclusion

Check for price on Amazon

When you decide to buy the CatGenie Self Washing Self Flushing Cat Box you will never have to carry the heavy litter home and clean the litter box mess again.

This innovative auto cat litter box cleans, disinfects and dries itself, so you will be carefree when it comes to this formerly unpleasant task.

The CatGenie is a full-stop solution to cat toilet needs. Washable granules are a dust-free alternative to cat litter and they will not need to be changed.

SaniSolution is totally safe for felines and approved by vets.

Plus, everything is biodegradable and environment-friendly.

CatGenie Self Washing Self Flushing Cat Box will make cat ownership more hands-off than ever.

Buying an Scratch Post for Your Cat? Read This Guide First!

A scratch post for your feline is your friend. Especially when you have expensive furniture. In this guide to scratch posts, we´ll discuss the ins and outs. This way you can decide which one you should buy.

Guide to Buying a Cat Scratch Post

Maybe you wonder why you need a designated scratch post for Mr(s). Mittens.  It seems like such a simple item. Yet, having one (or a couple) of these items around the house can save you big time. There are a couple of reasons why you should invest in  designated scratching areas.

The Benefits of a Cat Scratching Post

 

  • For your pet’s health. Scratching things is how cats keep their nails in top shape. And not only that, scratching is also a great exercise for your kitty, and a way to reduce stress. Make sure your pet has somewhere to scratch without worry. It reduces the stress levels of both you and your feline.
  • For the sake of your furniture, drapes, and upholstery. (And your stress levels). The way most newbie cat owners discover scratching items are quite essential. Cats love to scratch, and will scratch anything. That includes your leather couch. Setting up proper scratching areas can help divert the cat’s claws from your furniture, to his furniture. Simply setting it up might not be enough. Train your pet to use the scratch post. You can do so by putting catnip on it. Kitten treats at the top of the scratch post can also help correct this behavior problem.
  • If you have a newly adopted cat or kittens: A scratch post provides a wondrous activity to help kittens get rid of their excess energy. It also gives them something in  your home to attach themselves too. This makes it easier for the kitten(s) to adjust to their new surroundings. It also helps deal with any behavioral problems that might arise with being in a new environment. Tip: Hang extra items for the kittens to play with from the scratch post. This will encourage the kittens to play with it even more.
  • They fulfill a cat’s social need If you own multiple cats, or better said, if multiple cats own you, a scratch post will provide a social meeting point. The felines will start hanging around the scratching item for interaction and play. It’s  a great way to bring all your kitties together,

What to Look For When Buying A Cat Scratch Post?

Scratch solutions come in a few varieties. These things come in so many different varieties. So many different sizes, shapes, and materials. When choosing an essential accessory like this, it’s best to think like a feline. We’ll point out valuable tips and advice so you can decide which scratch post best suits your needs.

Height

Make sure you buy a scratching item that is large enough for your feline. When a cat starts to scratch, he/she reaches upwards and then pulls down against the post. The post should be roughly 1.5 times the size of your feline. This will allow him/her to stretch out. The taller and sturdier a scratch post is, the more chance you have of your pet picking the designated scratching item over your couch or chair.

Sturdiness & Stability

The sturdiness and stability of a piece of scratching furniture, matter more to a cat, than the material of construction. It is very important for the item to be stable and sturdy. If the designated scratcher doesn’t stay upright, the cat can’t scratch to his or her’s desire. This will leave Mittens looking for better scratching options.

Wooden or sisal solutions must be thoroughly attached to a strong and sturdy base. The base has to be big and heavy enough, so it won’t wobble when kitty starts using the item. If you have a wobbly post, it’s usually an easy fix: just nail it onto a larger base. This provides more stability.

Cardboard solutions that lie flat on the floor have to be large enough. Your pet has to be able stand on the post and scratch at the same time.

 

How to Choose a Scratching Post

“omnomnom, sisal”

Materials For Cat Scratchers

Natural Materials (Wood)

Felines that spent a lot of time outdoors usually use wooden fence posts, trees or tree stumps to sharpen their front claws. If you let your cat roam free outside, or your he/she has previously spent a while outside, he or she might want a scratching post from wood. You can either pick up some logs or firewood stumps yourself, or invest in an ready-build scratching solution from natural logs.

Pro’s

  • Natural materials make for happy cats
  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Sturdy
  • Durable

Cons

  • When buying a ready made solution, can be slightly expensive
  • When bring in wood from outdoors, check thoroughly for insects & other unwanted guests.
  • DIY is not for everyone

Cardboard

Petfusion Corrugated Cardboard Scratcher is not only pleasing to the eyes, it's also made with non-toxic glues. The curved design invites the cat to scratch the post.
This corrugated cardboard scratcher won the 2014 Fancy Cat Magazine #1 prize. Kitties love it and you can buy it on Amazon.

Economical and practical, while (usually) not the most aesthetically pleasing, these scratching posts made from corrugated cardboard appeal to many cats. And they’re easy to replace. The higher quality ones often come with a toy of some sort, to encourage your cat to scratch at the pole. Cardboard scratchers are usually the first choice for new cat owners. They’re  cheap and easily replaceable, but might not be the prettiest solution when it comes to cat furniture. They usually need replacing within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on usage of course.

Pro’s

  • Cheap

Con’s

  • Ugly
  • Might not be heavy & sturdy enough.
  • Not very durable

Sisal Rope

The best post there is? The Smartcat Ultimate is the #1 Best Seller on Amazon with over 4k reviews.
SmartCat Ultimate. Click the image to check on Amazon

Another popular option constitutes of posts covered with rough sisal rope. Sisal covers the same purpose as tree bark would do outside. The sisal provides good grip for the front claws. The cat pulls downward and releases the sheath. This exposes the new claw underneath. These scratchers are slightly more expensive than cardboard ones. But they’re also far more durable and can last for years, before needing replacing. Cats love using these posts covered in sisal. Make sure you get a non-painted one. The paint can be toxic to your pets. If the sisal begins to look messy, trim it with scissors to make it look nice again.

In this category, we recommend the Smartcat Ultimate Scratcher. It’s the #1 best seller on Amazon with over 4.000 positive reviews.

Pro’s

  • Long lasting
  • Durable
  • Relatively cheap.
  • Good price – durability

Cons

  • Ugly
  • Needs retrimming after a while of intense usage

 

Carpet

Half Carpet Half Sisal Tall Post for your kitten to scratch at, and lie on. Molly and Friends is a very popular options with an average user rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Amazon.Carpet is another favorite of the pet supply industry. We, on the other hand, don’t think this is a good idea. While carpet does serve the same purpose as sisal, it can resemble carpeting found on staircases or floors. Not all felines may take notion of the difference between their scratch post or your staircase carpet. Many won’t actually. If you want your felines to to stop wrecking your stairs and floors, it’s best to switch over to a different material. But if you do not have any carpet in the house, these scratchers are a viable option. They’re sturdy and durable, like sisal covered ones, but can be more pleasing to the eyes.

If you do want a carpet solution, we recommend going half carpet/half sisal, like this one from Molly & Friends.

Pro’s

  • Cheap
  • Durable

Cons

  • Cats might not understand the difference between the carpet on their scratching item and the carpet in your house.
  • Can be toxic if painted.
  • Ugly

Where to place the scratch post?

 

Where you decide to put the scratch post, plays a big part in your pet’s acceptance of his new designated scratching area. When a felines scratches something, he/she leaves marks for other cats. These territory markers are both visual (the scratches) and scented. Other felines are now aware they’re in someone’s territory.

For this same reason, many cats choose a prominent chair or table to scratch. This is how they let other felines know immediately whose territory they are in.

That’s why it is important to place the designated scratching item in a prominent, often-used, location in the house.

Sometimes it will even help to put the designated scratch item directly in front of the piece of furniture your feline has chosen to be it’s scratchers. Put a little catnip or toy on the scratchers to encourage Mr. Mittens to start scratching at his new piece of furniture.

 

Automatic Cat Litter Box: Litter-Robot III Open-Air Review

Automatic Cat Litter Box: Litter-Robot III Open-Air Review

 http://smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/litter-robot-iii-open-air-review Litter Robot III Open Air Review
Click to see details on Amazon

 

The Litter-Robot III Open-Air is innovative self-cleaning, automatic litter box which will bring the ease of cat ownership to a whole new level.

If you own a cat and you don’t like to put your hands in the dirty litter or if you are often away from home, Litter-Robot III Open-Air will take care of this unpleasant task for you.

There will be no more unpleasant odors and harmful bacteria in your house.

Product Description

 Check for the full article: http://smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/litter-robot-iii-open-air-reviewThe Litter-Robot III Open-Air is the latest top-notch product based on the successful Litter-Robot platform. This self-cleaning litter box is comfortable even for large cats. It has modern design and many simple but useful features which will make the litter routine easier for you and your cat.

Customer reviews of previous versions of the Litter-Robot (like the Litter Robot LRII) were taken into a consideration when this improved model was made.  The Litter-Robot III Open-Air has a large entry which will give your cat an open-air comfort, without the ability to spill the litter all around the room.

When a cat enters the large ergonomic globe, sensors on the floor will be activated and a few minutes after she leaves the electronic litter box, cleaning cycle will start. The Litter-Robot III has an adjustable timer which will postpone the cleaning cycle for 3, 5, or 7 minutes. This way the dirty litter has enough time to form strong clumps.

After, the globe will start rotating to separate the waste that will fall down into the special drawer from the clean litter which will stay in the globe. When the litter is clean, the globe will return to its normal position, so the cat will be able to use it again.

 Check for the full article: http://smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/litter-robot-iii-open-air-review
Click to see on Amazon

If your kitty weighs less than 5 pounds, you will need to start the cleaning cycle manually, by pressing a button.

After a few days, when the plastic bag in the waste drawer gets full, the sensors will activate. This triggers a blinking light as a signal for you to change the bag.

Even if you own an older cat, it will be easy for her to use the Litter-Robot III Open-Air because it has a night light built in. Your pet will be able to find it in the dark.

Although it is very quiet when compared to other automatic litter boxes, it also comes with an 8-hour sleep mode option.

It also has a control lock function, so your cat will not be able to accidently press any buttons. With this amazing product, you will never have to scoop the poop again.

Features

  • Fully automated and self-cleaning litter box
  • Dimensions: 29.2” H x 24.1” W x 26.7” D
  • Suitable for cats weighing from 5 to 20 pounds
  • Large ergonomic globe for the comfort of big cats
  • Open-air oval entry size: 15.2” H x 10.7” W
  • Cat sensors on the floor activate when the cat enters the globe
  • Cleaning cycle wait-timer that can be set for 3, 5 or 7 minutes after the cat leaves the globe
  • ON/OFF button
  • “Lock controls” option so the cat can’t accidently press buttons while jumping around
  • Night light to navigate older cats in the dark
  • 8-hour sleep mode
  • Waste fullness light indicator that lets you know when to replace the bag
  • Odor filter on the waste drawer
  • Rubber mat on the entry which will catch the litter, preventing it from falling on the floor
  • Color: Bisque
 Check for the full article: http://smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/litter-robot-iii-open-air-review
The night light in action. Click to see details on Amazon

Warranty & Guarantee

When you buy Litter-Robot III Open-Air automatic cat box it comes with a full 90 days money back warranty. If you are not satisfied with this amazing product within the 90 days you will get a money refund from the manufacturer.

The Litter-Robot III Open-Air also comes with an 18-month full guarantee and the possibility to extend this period to 36 months. In the rare case, it does break down. It is a very reliable product, made in the USA.

 Check for the full article on this self cleaning litterbox : http://smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/litter-robot-iii-open-air-review
Click to see details on Amazon

The Good

  • It comes to your door fully assembled. Take it out of the box, plug it in and it is ready to use.
  • Very user-friendly and easy to program. You can also lock the buttons, to prevent your cat from interfering with the program.
  • Saves you 50% on cat litter!
  • Nightlight will help the elderly cats in the dark
  • Very quiet for an auto litter box, plus it has a sleep mode which will prevent the cleaning cycle from starting during the night
  • Can be cleaned manually by pressing a button, if needed
  • Special lining will keep the inside of the globe extra clean
  • Waste drawer has built in sensors which will inform you when it’s time to change the bag
  • Odor filters prevent the bad smells from spreading around the house
  • Great solution if you have multiple cats
  • Comes with money back guarantee, 18 months warranty and a very clear user manual
 Check for the full review on this self cleaning http://smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/litter-robot-iii-open-air-review
No more unpleasant litter box odors. Click to see on Amazon

The Bad

  • It is a bit large, so it will need a lot of space in your home. However, it has a nice modern design making it easy to fit into the ambient of any room.
  • Suitable only for cats heavier than 5 pounds. If your cat is too small you will have to start the cleaning cycle manually.
  • The night light is too bright, so you might want to keep this electric litter box out of your bedroom
  • It works only with clumping litter. If your cat is used to another type of litter, it might take some time for her to adjust (we recommend this one, #1 best seller on Amazon for a reason).
  • You will need to put in the exact amount of the litter in order to make it work properly. However, there is an indicator line inside the globe
  • It’s a bit expensive. But it is also long lasting and very reliable. Remember, you get what you pay for!

 

Conclusion

 

 Check for the full article on this modern self cleaning litterbox : http://smrodcats.com/litter/automatic-litter-box/litter-robot-iii-open-air-review
Click to see on Amazon

Cats are very clean animals, so if you don’t clean their litterbox regularly, they will do their thing elsewhere.

On the other hand, you would probably like to avoid touching the waste and dirty litter.

The best solution is to let the revolutionary Litter-Robot III Open-Air auto litter box do the dirty work for you while you can enjoy other more pleasant activities with your cat.

Your house will be clean, without any litter dust and waste dirt on the floor, and your cat will enjoy the open-air feeling.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buying an Automatic Cat Feeder? Read This Guide First!

The Smrodcat’s Guide To Buying An Automatic Cat Feeder

 

Imagine this: you are currently planning to make a perfect out-of-town getaway for a weekend, let me describe you one of the several possible scenarios. You will reserve your favorite spa retreat, pack your finest lingerie, wax your legs, do your nails, pack all your necessities and then finally – cancel the trip.

I’m guessing you don’t like the direction in which this is going.

But, you can’t just let your cat starve while you enjoy yourself in a luxury hotel. It would be heartless and cruel. So, if you don’t solve this cat feeding issue, no more relaxing weekends for you.

Fortunately for you, there are a few ways to prevent this worst case scenario:

  1. You can always ask an old neighbor to feed your feline beauty. She would probably be glad to help. Of course, you will have to return the favor and feed the old lady when she gets sick. That is too much of a price to pay just for one weekend.
  2. You can take your cat to a boarding cattery. This can be a really traumatic experience for your pampered beauty. Cats are very territorial, so she might wind up meowing all night because she is away from her familiar environment. This can also cost you a good amount of money, especially if you have more than one cat. Plus, this is not a permanent solution, so it can get costly if you travel frequently.
  3. Finally, you can buy an automatic cat feeder. This will be the one time cost and you will not have to return the favor to anyone. For now, an automatic cat feeder sounds like the most reasonable solution.

There are of course many more reasons why to use an automatic cat feeder. Some cats are too skinny and require extra feeding. Others eat too much and need to be put on special diets.

Benefits of Using an Automatic Cat Feeder

 

Amazon Automatic Pet Food DispenserCSF-3
The CSF-3 is one of the highest rated automatic cat food dispensers available and comes with all options. Click on the image for more details.

There are different types of an automatic cat feeders on the market. Timed cat feeders are very practical because they will allow you to control not just daily, but hourly calorie intake of your four-legged friend.

Control of Caloric Intake

This is very important because cats are prone to binge eating, and when you leave too much food for them, some of them will literally eat to death.

Even without this catastrophic outcome, the idea that your kitty looks and acts like Garfield can be a bit disturbing. If you set an automatic cat feeder to certain time intervals and portions, you will know that your furry family member has the right amount of food all the time.

From the medical point of view, obesity in cats can be a huge problem. It can lead to serious health issues like arthritis, joint pain, fatty liver, heart problems and it can also put an additional pressure on the lungs and blood vessels.  Pet obesity is the #1 killer right now. It can shorten your pet’s life expectancy by up to 2.5 years!

If you notice that your cat should go on a diet, get an automatic cat feeder and ask a vet to recommend the right amount of food per meal.

You can program an automatic cat feeder to provide certain portions in planned time intervals.

Besides the calorie restriction, your kitty will need an increase in physical activity in order to lose weight or keep the perfect figure and stay healthy. Cat toys can be a great way to engage your feline beauty into her daily fitness routine.

Sleep Longer

There is one more problem which you can solve if you buy high-quality automatic cat feeder.

I can give you a hint.

Does meowing for food at 5 AM sound familiar to you and your neighbors?  While cats are nocturnal animals, humans like to seize the day. You can easily overcome that difference in bio-rhythms by setting an automatic cat feeder to your cats’ favorite feeding time.

Cats like to stick to their habits, so it will be easy for you to choose a perfect timing and set the automatic cat feeder. This will kill two birds with one stone. You will be able to sleep like a baby and your cat will be well fed and content.

 

Things to Look for When Choosing an Automatic Cat Feeder

 

Before you pick the right automatic cat feeder for your pet, take several things into a consideration:

  • An automatic cat feeder should be heavy enough. If it is too light, it might wind up turned over during your kitty’s desperate attempts to take the food out. So choose an automatic cat feeder which is cat proof.
  • Pay attention to the noise level. If an automatic cat feeder is too noisy it might scare the kitty in the beginning, so it will be harder for her to become accustomed to the new feeding routine.
  • Check for the option of recording a short personal message which will be played when it’s time for a meal. If your cat has suppressed appetite, this kind of an automatic cat feeder might do the trick. Your voice can trigger the digestive glands to produce saliva and increase the feeling of hunger. You have probably heard of Pavlov’s theory of the conditioned reflex.
  • Check if you can use  wet and/or dry food. Some models allow just one type of food. Others have theability to dispense treats as well.
  • Does it come with a backup battery for power outages? This is especially important if your cats will be alone for a prolonged period of time.
  • Is it easy to clean? Remember, you’re dealing with food here. It can get stuck and start to rot. Regular cleaning is important. Look for automated dispensers with removable parts. If they are dishwasher safe, even better.
  • Does it have internet access? Some cat food dispensers have applications so you can take control over what to feed, when to feed and how to feed. Simpler models you have to program first.
  • Also, stay away from DIY timed cat feeders since they are not safe enough. If they jam, your kitty will starve. Instead, go for a top-of-the-notch automatic cat feeder from a well-trusted manufacturer.
  • And finally, if you care about the look of your personal space, find an automatic cat feeder with modern design.
This automatic pet food dispenser you can control with your smartphone. Stay in control while you're away. Click for more information.
This automatic pet food dispenser you can control with your smartphone. Stay in control while you’re away. Click on the image for more information.

Feline Psychology and Automatic Cat Food Dispensers

 

If you are a real cat person, you already know that every feline has a mind of its own.

Some cats are timid while others like to be the center of attention. Some are lapcats, some are like to run around.

Regardless to individual character, all kitties have the one thing in common: they like to be loved.

Remember that no automatic cat feeder can be a replacement for the precious moments you spend together.

Your cat sees the feeding ritual as a kind of bonding between the two of you, so it would be recommended to give her, at least, one meal in an old fashion way.

It will show her that you are still willing to provide her food (and clean her litter box). She will thank you with content purring and rubbing against your legs. And occasionally a gift from a hunting trip.

 

Extra tips to help you with an automatic cat feeder

I hope that by now you already know what kind of an automatic cat feeder you want to buy.

  • To make sure that your kitty stays healthy, clean the bowl with a dishwashing detergent on a regular basis, at least every other day.
  • Don’t forget to check the batteries regularly, if your automatic cat feeder doesn’t have an AC power cord. Make sure that everything works properly before you decide to leave the house. Or just get one with a build-in back-up battery, so you’ll always be safe.

Fur the sake of your kitty! Then you can be carefree, knowing that she is well-fed and happy.