How We Test

We design our protocols around the realities of multi-cat and small-space living. Each product category—bowls, slow feeders, elevated stands, mats, fountains, storage, and travel kits—runs through objective measurements plus behavior-aware observations. We test multiple units when possible and validate results across different kibble sizes and feeding styles (dry, moist, mixed).

Environment and tools

Rooms: quiet apartment kitchen and typical living area; ambient noise profiled before each session.
Sound: calibrated sound level meter (A-weighting, slow response). We measure idle, dispense, and alert tones at 1 m and 3 m, report dBA, and note tonal spikes.
Accuracy: laboratory scale (0.1 g resolution) for portioning tests; we run 30+ dispenses per setting, compute mean absolute error and drift after 1,000 cycles.
Jam resistance: mixed kibble sizes/shapes; log misfeeds, clogs, and auto-recover behavior.
Tip resistance: force gauge records newton force to tip; we also run “cat bump” tests to simulate nudges.
Spill control: standardized scatter tests using fixed quantities of kibble and dyed water; we quantify recovery area and cleanup time.
Whisker clearance and geometry: measure bowl radius/depth; assess contact points during eating and observed splaying.
Footprint and cable management: measure overall footprint, wall clearance, and cord path; note trip and chew risk.
Cleanability: time-to-clean trials, part count, seam/fastener count, dishwasher cycles, and residue inspection under light.
Materials and safety: verify stated materials (e.g., 304/316 stainless, BPA/BPS-free plastics), check edges, gaskets, and surface finish.
Water systems: flow noise, aerosolization, filter media performance, and cost per month over 24 months.

Scoring and weights We score categories on a 0–10 scale with weights tuned to real-life outcomes:

Quiet operation and alerts: 20%
Portion accuracy and consistency: 20%
Fairness and access control (where applicable): 15%
Spill/splash control and cleanability: 20%
Footprint, cable management, and aesthetics: 10%
Durability, repairability, and parts availability: 10%
Ongoing cost predictability: 5% We publish category-specific weights when they differ (e.g., fountains emphasize hygiene; slow feeders emphasize pace and vomit reduction).

Procedures and replication Each product goes through setup, calibration (if available), and a burn-in period. We log failures, firmware updates, and app connectivity over at least two weeks, longer for complex devices. We retest after cleaning cycles and simulate travel with battery backups and offline failsafes. If results are sensitive to environment, we note the conditions and give configuration tips.

Cost of ownership We model total cost over 24 months: filters, batteries, proprietary parts, and reasonable wear. Where third-party consumables are viable, we test them as well and show the impact on noise, flow, or accuracy.

Transparency and updates We share our raw measures (summarized), key photos, and the trade-offs behind every pick. When products change, we add editor’s notes and retest critical metrics. Reader reports of recurring issues may trigger an accelerated recheck.

Ethics and welfare We design tests to reduce stress: gradual introductions, access to alternatives, and observation for signs of anxiety. Behavior evaluations focus on fairness at meals—preventing theft, slowing fast eaters, and minimizing conflict—while supporting healthy intake.

Reproducibility If you are a manufacturer or researcher, contact us for protocol details. We welcome replication and will correct or clarify any measure that doesn’t reproduce under comparable conditions.