While we've pointed out some of the possible flaws here, it's definitely worth noting that the overall reaction to the Cat Mate C500 is overwhelmingly positive. Should you buy the Cat Mate C500? Depending on use, quality alkaline batteries should last about 12 months. A low battery indicator will alert you when it’s time to change batteries. Rechargeable and 1.5 v lithium batteries can be used but the low battery indicator will only work correctly with standard alkaline batteries. When not in use you can turn the feeder off to save battery life and still keep the stored schedule. If you’re not going to use it for longer periods it is recommended to remove the batteries.

This automatic feeder is primarily designed for indoor use. You may be able to use it outdoors in a covered shaded area but it won’t be able to keep the food fresh for as long, plus it may attract other animals, critters and bugs.

Specifications

This automatic cat dispenser uses a digital timer with a LCD display to program feedings. Although there are 5 serving compartments, a maximum of 4 feedings can be scheduled each day. The first meal compartment is uncovered and available immediately. All 4 programmed feeds are displayed on the LCD display so you can easily see the day’s feeding schedule. Best feeder option for wet food– There aren’t many options for automatic feeders that can use wet food and this one is clearly the top of the list. The Cat Mate C500 can be used with dry and wet pet food. There are 5 meal compartments that can each store up to 11.5 ounces of dry or wet food. This is enough for for most small dogs or 2 cats. Food is easily added to the storage compartments by removing the dispenser lid. You’ll want to be careful to not overfill the compartments as it may jam the rotating bowl. Worthy of consideration if you need an automatic pet feeder that can be used with wet food. It really is the best option. If you don’t need 5 servings per day Cat Mate also makes a similar 3 Meal Pet Feeder and 2 Bowl Pet Feeder. The Cat Mate C500 is easy pretty easy to set up, but some owners get confused at first. So you may experience a slight learning curve when programing it the first time. I think some of this stems from there being 5 storage compartments, but you’re only able to schedule 4 feedings per day.

Other than the digital timer the Cat Mate C500 doesn’t really have any high tech features, but it doesn’t really need them. So there’s less to go wrong with it. Cleaning/Maintenance/Care

Rating

The majority of users love the timer, praising it for it simplicity, but some (conversely) found it slightly too complicated. No consensus there, then, but it does appear to work reliably. The mechanics, perhaps not so much, again depending on who you ask. A few users have found their C500s went a little rogue, rotating the platters incessantly or misaligning the food trays; some of these tales sound like user error more than any great fault with the hardware, but they should offer something to think about if you're planning to use this to feed your cats while you're away for a little while. You can feel comfortable knowing your cat will be feed when you’re working late or need a weekend getaway. It can also help supplement pet sitters by reducing the number of times they need to come.