Got a Pet Problem? We've Got 6 Smart Pet Tech Remedies
When I talked to Alexa Neskin, Cofounder and CTO of pet gadget brand Petcube, he mentioned how he likes focusing on technology that address pet health and happiness -- because both our lives are fleeting. "You know, some people get a dog and then won't let it on the couch or even kiss them. And I always think: dude, you've got 10, maybe 15 years with your dog -- tops," he told me. "One day they'll be gone, and all you'll wish for is one more moment with them, one more chance to kiss that cold nose. That's why my main focus now is using technology to catch health issues early."
Now that we're all crying a bit, here are common pet problems and the pet tech solutions we've found that can help. Always talk to your vet about what your pet is going through, but give these high-tech options a look, too.
Read more: 11 Home Security Myths People Still Believe (But Shouldn't)
If your pet is stressed out a lot
Furbo's cam lets you soothe anxious pets or award them treats.
Leaving an anxious pet at home isn't fun, but you can reach out with a pet cam that includes two-way audio, like this Furbo cam for $54 or this 360-degree panning cam from Petcube ($38). Both include AI alerts that can give you clues about what your pet is doing and help you calm them down.
Another trick that works for many pets is a heartbeat toy like this Weok model ($26) which simulates a mother's soothing heartbeat.
If your pet needs to go on a diet
PetSafe's feeder allows for complex meal scheduling right on your phone.
If your vet has advised your pet to lose a few pounds, one of the most effective methods (besides laying off the treats) is setting up an rigorous feeding schedule for them. That's hard to manage on your own, but a smart feeder like this PetSafe 6-liter model ($130) or this version with a built-in camera from Petlibro ($106) can offer customizable, automated feeding times. You can control and change them via app wherever you are.
If your pet gets a little destructive
A little techie distraction could be just what your pup needs.
Petgeek
A pet cam like Furbo's $54 model can use AI alerts (with a subscription) to give you an idea if your pet has entered a danger zone, like jumping up on a sofa before chewing cushions, or carrying a show with ill intent. That can give you a chance to use the two-way audio and warn them off before damage occurs.
It's also a good idea to distract your pet, like with this clever Woof Pupsicle ($16), a dishwasher-safe toy with a hidden treat inside that will help your pup forget everything else for a while. Or you can try this motion-activated toy bone ($30)that ensures a distraction as long as its rechargeable battery lasts (about two hours of play).
If your pet isn't eating or drinking like they should
Petcube's Water Fountain includes motion sensing and app alerts.
Petcube
We like Petlibro's pet feeder ($105)for this issue, because the camera and two-way audio let's you keep an eye and ear on pet eating habits for important clues as well as encouragement. And if you don't already have one, we suggest getting a water fountain like this dishwasher-ready model from PetSafe ($25) or this wireless fountain from Petlibro ($57). A lot of animals feel more comfortable drinking fresh, moving water like they'd find in nature.
If you lose track of your pet too often
Petcube's tracker is positioned to be an affordable collar upgrade -- if you don't mind a $5 monthly subscription.
Tyler Lacoma/CNET
Some pets have an eye for the horizon, and that can be difficult to manage if a leash isn't involved. Fortunately, you have other options, like this collar tracker from Petcube ($40). We tested it and really like how compact it is, and how it glows in the dark for easy tracking when a pet is hiding or running out at night. You may also want to consider this PetSafe smart collar and digital fence ($250), which allows you to set geolocation boundaries and give warnings with vibration, noise and more.
If your pet has excess energy
Ball launchers and other tricks can help pets get rid of pent-up energy.
PetSafe
When your pet can't stop moving and has more than enough energy to burn off in the day (looking at you, border collie parents), you can help out with the right devices. This useful automatic ball launcher from PetSafe ($170) that can keep the fun going even when you have to be elsewhere. Or to make sure that your pet has plenty of yard time, this high-tech pet door ($420) works with an accompanying collar to open up whenever pets approach without letting in drafts -- and you can change settings to control access whenever you want.
For more info, check out our guide on if a dog can really improve your home security, the best indoor cameras overall, and secret tips for cleaning out every part of your home.
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