PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder

Dad

I saw this one online and thought it looked good. What's your first reaction?

Boldo

It's a machine. That's the whole thing. Machines don't smell like dinner, so I was unimpressed at first. But then I realized it probably holds kibble, so I reconsidered my position slightly.

Dad

Okay, you've been staring at it for ten minutes. What's the verdict on smell?

Boldo

Mostly plastic, like I said. But underneath there's definitely kibble in there—I can pick up the chicken. The metal bowl smells neutral, which is fine. It's not offensive, just not interesting. Is that turkey I smell from the kitchen? No? Okay, never mind.

Dad

Now that you've actually used it for a week—what do you think?

Boldo

The motor is loud when it opens. Startled me the first time. But the portion is consistent, and I know exactly when to expect food, which I respect. The stainless steel doesn't hold smell, so my bowl stays cleaner than when you feed me by hand. I'll admit that's useful.

Dad

The cat hasn't touched it. Does that mean something?

Boldo

The cat won't eat from anything that isn't a dish you hand-placed in front of her. She's impossible. But this feeder is set for my height, and the cat couldn't reach it anyway. That's actually a bonus—I don't have to watch her eat my portion. She's sitting on the couch right now, probably judging something.

Dad

Rate it. One to five. You know what the ones are.

Boldo

Four. It does what it promises. The app works fine if you care about that. Noise is annoying but I've adjusted. The bowl is easy to clean. Could it be smarter about portion sizes? Maybe. But it's consistent, and you've saved money because you're not overfeeding me, which I actually benefit from. I don't love it. I just respect it.