Automatic pet feeders are a game-changer for busy pet owners. They keep your furry friend on a consistent schedule, prevent overfeeding, and give you peace of mind when you’re away. But if your dog or cat keeps tipping it over, that convenience quickly turns into frustration—and a big mess.
The good news? With the right placement, securing methods, and feeder choice, you can stop the tipping habit for good. This guide will walk you through how to secure your automatic feeder, reduce mealtime chaos, and choose the right model for your pet’s needs.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose the Right Location for Stability
The first and easiest fix is strategic placement. Position your feeder in a corner so it’s backed by two walls. This setup limits the directions your pet can push it and makes it harder to topple.
Corners also have a behavioral benefit: they create a single point of entry. This reduces the chance of multiple pets crowding the feeder from different sides, which can cause tipping during mealtime excitement.
If you can, place the feeder on a flat, non-slippery surface like tile or hardwood with a rubber mat underneath for extra grip.
Step 2: Secure the Feeder with Velcro or Adhesive
Even in a corner, determined pets can still nudge a feeder enough to spill food. That’s where Velcro tape or double-sided adhesive strips come in.
Here’s how to do it:
- Clean the underside of the feeder and the floor area where it will sit.
- Apply heavy-duty Velcro or adhesive strips to the feeder base.
- Press firmly into place so it bonds securely.
This creates a strong hold that keeps the feeder stable while still allowing you to detach it for cleaning or refilling.
Step 3: Reduce Mealtime Chaos for Multiple Pets
If you have more than one pet, feeding time can get competitive—and that’s when feeders are most at risk of being knocked over. To prevent this:
- Separate feeding stations in different rooms so pets aren’t competing for the same spot.
- Elevate cat feeders to counters or shelves where dogs can’t reach.
- Stagger feeding times using programmable settings so pets eat in shifts instead of all at once.
This not only reduces tipping but also helps prevent food guarding and stress between pets.
Step 4: Match the Feeder to Your Pet’s Needs
Not all feeders are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a big difference:
- For food-guarding pets – Use a microchip feeder that only opens for the assigned pet’s RFID tag.
- For wet food – Pick a model with an ice pack or built-in refrigeration to keep food fresh.
- For dual feeding – Choose a two-bowl feeder designed for side-by-side eating without crowding.
Investing in the right type of feeder can solve multiple problems at once—from tipping to food theft.
Step 5: Always Have a Backup Feeding Plan
Even the best feeder can fail—whether from a jam, battery issue, or power outage. If you’ll be away for more than 24 hours, arrange for a friend, neighbor, or pet sitter to check in.
This ensures your pet gets fed, stays hydrated, and doesn’t feel lonely while you’re gone. As a rule of thumb, never rely 100% on an automatic feeder for extended absences without human backup.
FAQ: Automatic Feeders for Dogs and Cats
Do cats like automatic feeders?
Most cats enjoy them once they get used to the sound. They quickly learn to associate the noise with mealtime.
How long can you leave a cat with an automatic feeder?
It’s best not to leave a cat alone for more than a day without someone checking in, even if the feeder is working.
Can you put wet food in an automatic feeder?
Yes, if the feeder is designed for it and has a cooling system.
How many times a day should I schedule meals?
For most adult cats, two meals a day is ideal, but follow your vet’s advice for portion sizes.
How long can cats go without food if the feeder breaks?
Cats can survive up to two weeks without food but only about three days without water. This is why backup care is essential.
Can two cats share an automatic feeder?
Yes—if neither is aggressive about food. Otherwise, use a microchip feeder.
How do you pet-proof a feeding station?
Secure the feeder with Velcro, place it in a corner, and separate feeding areas for multiple pets.
How do you keep dogs and cats from eating each other’s food?
Feed them in different locations or use a microchip feeder for the cat.
What is a microchip feeder?
A feeder that uses an RFID chip to open only for the assigned pet, keeping other animals out.
My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks.
I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.
