Feeding time – SureFlap Microchip Pet Feeder
Think microchip-operated cat flaps are the height of kitty technology? SureFlap make a range of microchip-controlled mechanicals, including this pet feeder, which enables households with multiple four-legged family members to ensure each one gets their full share of grub (handy if one of your furry brood’s on a special diet, too). A lid keeps meals fresh too: simply follow the instructions to set it up, and it’ll open when the desired microchip-holder approaches.
Pet cam – Motorola SCOUT85 Connect HD Wi-Fi Pet Monitor
Aside from the endless entertainment and YouTube hit possibilities (I jest), if you want to check in with Puss while you’re out of the house, this RSPCA-endorsed hi-tech indoor camera lets you do just that. Link it up to your device with the free Hubble app, and you can watch live or review earlier footage, all in HD 720p quality. There’s an infrared night-vision mode too, and the camera can rotate to follow your feline around the room.
Tail spin – Hexbug Remote Control Mouse
Cats love chasing things. We all love a remote control toy. Everyone’s a winner with this mechanical mouse, which can spin around and shoot forwards and backwards. Don’t expect state-of-the art robotics, but it’s good fun and handy for when you want to slump on the sofa but kitty wants to play – and at this price, you can’t go wrong.
Real treat – Pawbo Wi-Fi Pet Camera and Treat Dispenser
Quality pet cam: tick. Link up and watch a live feed of Tinkerbell while you’re out and about: tick. But Pawbo’s capabilities go much further than that: you can also talk to your cat remotely, operate sound effects, and even play with them thanks to an in-built laser. Best of all though, you can operate the treat dispenser, all via the free Pawbo app. Now that really is the cat’s whiskers.
Laser quest – Ferplast Phantom Laser Cat Toy
Often, the simplest toys really do prove the biggest hit, and if you’ve ever kept your cat occupied with a basic laser pen, you’ll know how much they love chasing those darting beams around. This battery-operated gizmo will do all the arm-work for you. Simply switch it on, choose one of three speed settings, and watch Puss put those pouncing skills into action.
Merry go round – Cat’s Meow Cat Toy with Motorised Revolving Mouse Tail
In my experience, cats soon get bored of more hi-tech toys, but if your Puss can’t resist a bit of peek-a-boo, then this is definitely worth a go. Pop in some batteries (not included), and a motorised ‘mouse tail’ wand swings back and forth beneath the canvas cover. The speed and direction changes at random, to keep kitty on her toes, and it can be folded away for tidy keeping afterwards.
App of the week – Relax My Cat (App Store, Google Play)
Humans aren’t the only ones who can benefit from some soothing tunes, to lull them to sleep or calm chaotic nerves. So if you have a frazzled feline – whether they’re spooked by thunder storms, prone to anxiety or just a bit stressed – the music on this app is specially composed by the in-house team of producers, based on feline vocal communications and naturally appealing environmental sounds (all recorded on traditional instruments and with the human voice). There are playlists for specific scenarios too, such as the ‘Separation Anxiety Playlist’ and ‘New Kitten Playlist’.