7 Pet Tech Upgrades Worth the Splurge (For Dogs and Cats Alike)
Whether you're a busy dog parent, a doting cat lover, or somewhere in between, modern pet tech is making life easier for both pets and their humans. From automatic feeders to smart health monitors, there are gadgets out there that genuinely earn their price tag. Here's a curated list of pet tech upgrades that are absolutely worth it—especially if you're short on time but big on love.
1. Smart Feeders with App Control
Never miss a feeding again—even if you’re stuck at work. Smart feeders for dogs and cats like the PetSafe Smart Feed let you control portions and timing from your phone. Some even send alerts when your pet has eaten.
2. Pet Cameras with Treat Tossers
Keep an eye on your pet and even toss them a treat! The Furbo 360 is perfect for dogs, and Petcube Bites 2 works great for cats. You'll get motion alerts, two-way audio, and live video feeds right to your phone.
3. GPS + Activity Trackers
Track your pet’s location and activity in real time. The Whistle GO Explore is ideal for adventurous dogs, while indoor cats can benefit from lightweight Bluetooth-enabled tags that alert you if they sneak out a door.
4. Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes
If you’ve got a cat, a self-cleaning litter box like the Litter-Robot 4 can be a total game changer. It scoops for you, controls odor, and even monitors your cat’s bathroom habits for signs of health issues.
5. Pet Air Purifiers
Air purifiers with HEPA filters can reduce pet dander, hair, and odors. Great for multi-pet homes or allergy-prone families. Look for units like the Levoit Core 400S that are quiet, efficient, and app-controlled.
6. Temperature-Sensing Beds
For both cats and dogs, temperature-adaptive beds like the Kando Cooling Memory Foam Bed provide year-round comfort. Some models even connect to apps to track usage and temperature preferences.
7. Smart Doors and Flaps
These programmable flaps only unlock for your pet’s collar tag, helping prevent raccoons or stray animals from sneaking in. Models like the PetSafe Electronic SmartDoor work great for both cats and dogs.
Conclusion
Some tech upgrades are pure fluff, but these deliver serious benefits for your pets’ comfort and your peace of mind. Whether it’s automating your day or giving you better ways to bond, these gadgets are a worthy investment for any busy pet parent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are smart pet gadgets really worth it?
Yes—when used properly, they can save time, reduce stress, and even improve your pet’s health and safety.
Can cats use most of the same gadgets as dogs?
Many gadgets are designed for both species or have cat-specific versions. Always check size and behavioral suitability.
What’s the best first tech item to invest in?
Start with a smart feeder or pet camera—these offer daily convenience and emotional connection while you're away.
Are there subscription fees?
Some GPS and camera apps have monthly fees. Be sure to check if a product requires ongoing payments before you buy.
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