The rise of pet tech: gadgets pet parents should know about

Technology isn't just reserved for humans anymore – it’s also making waves in our pets’ lives! With the rapid development of pet tech gadgets, caring for your pets has become both easier and more exciting. From tracking their every move to making mealtimes more efficient, there’s plenty on offer for pet parents wanting to make life better for their beloved companions.

But before you start filling your cart with all the latest tech innovations, it’s important to understand how these gadgets work and why safety should always come first. With expert advice from Dr. Rosalind Holland (BVSc, MVM, MANZCVS), we’ll explore the most popular pet tech gadgets and discuss how to use them responsibly to keep your pets safe and happy.

Popular tech gadgets for pet parents 

Pet tracking collars and GPS tech 

Is your adventurous cat secretly a neighbourhood explorer? Or do you worry every time your dog takes off during an off-leash walk? GPS tracking collars are an incredibly useful tool for monitoring your pet’s location and ensuring their safety.

“Tracking devices, often in collars for cats, can be great if you have an outdoor cat who tends to wander,” says Dr. Holland. “It can be quite scary to find out just how far your cat goes!” 

These devices often come with dedicated apps that allow you to see your pet’s real-time location or check their activity levels.

While SPCA encourages people to keep their cats at home or within secure outdoor enclosures to keep them safe from harm and protect wildlife, GPS collars can be a helpful tool for monitoring cats that already roam outdoors, giving owners valuable insights into their movements. 

There are trackers that can even send an alert if your cat or dog leaves your property, so you can act as soon as possible to ensure their safety.

Some tracking collars – like those for dogs – can also double as activity monitors, such as for tracking their sleep patterns. This information provides insights that can help you care for your pet’s health more effectively.

Automatic feeders 

For pet owners with unpredictable schedules, automatic pet feeders have become a lifesaver. These devices dispense pre-portioned meals or snacks, ensuring your companions never miss dinnertime – even if you’re running late. Automated scheduled meals can also be great if your pet tries to wake you up earlier and earlier for their breakfast. They can also provide smaller, more regular meals to help animals on weight loss programmes feel satiated.

What makes these gadgets even better is how they can address specific dietary needs. “Microchip-enabled feeders are a fantastic tool for multi-pet households,” explains Dr. Holland. They can restrict food access to certain pets based on their microchip ID, ensuring that every pet eats exactly what they’re supposed to – whether that’s a prescription diet or a smaller meal size for weight management.

Electronic pet toys 

Want to keep your dog entertained while you’re stuck working from home? Or maybe your cat isn’t as impressed with that old threadbare mouse toy anymore. Some of the latest pet toys include balls that roll and change direction on their own, or chase toys that flick a feather back and forth to keep our cats well-exercised and stimulated at home.

These smart toys are great for mental stimulation and physical exercise, especially if your pet tends to get bored. But just like with any new gadget, proper supervision is key to keeping playtime safe. It’s also a good idea to steer clear of laser pointer toys to avoid frustration and stress in your pet.

Pet cameras 

Have you ever wondered what your pet gets up to while you’re out of the house? Pet cameras with two-way audio and treat dispensers are quickly becoming a hit with pet parents. A pet camera can allow you to watch your pet, talk to them, and even toss treats to keep them entertained. 

Risks of buying knock-off pet tech gadgets 

While pet tech offers countless benefits, it’s essential to approach these gadgets with safety in mind. Knock-off or low-quality products may be cheaper, but they can come with major risks for your pet. 

Dr. Holland shares a sombre example: “There have been sad cases where animals have been killed by malfunctioning gadgets such as self-cleaning litter trays. It’s not worth taking the risk.” This is why you should only invest in gadgets that are fully safety tested and come with clear instructions.

How to protect your pet 

Here are Dr. Holland’s top tips for using pet tech gadgets safely and responsibly: 

• Always go for brands that clearly demonstrate industry-standard safety testing. They may cost more upfront, but the peace of mind is priceless. 
• Every gadget will have specific guidelines for safe use – don’t skip them; read the guidelines thoroughly.
• Any new tech should be introduced under supervision to ensure your pet uses it correctly and comfortably. 
• For adjustable gadgets like collars, ensure they’re well-fitted and equipped with safety features like breakaway clips. Test the gadget’s performance thoroughly before leaving your pet alone with it. 
• Use common sense. If something seems unsafe or poorly designed, trust your gut and avoid using it altogether. 

Pet tech should enhance your pet’s life, not create unnecessary risks. Taking that extra step to validate a product’s quality can make all the difference. 

While you're investing in tech to keep your pet happy and safe, don’t forget to consider safeguarding their health, too. SPCA Pet Insurance can help cover unexpected vet bills, giving you peace of mind regarding your pet’s well-being. Whether it’s an accident or illness, you’ll be prepared for whatever comes your way.