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The short answer: To set up the PetSafe Simply Feed, place it on a flat surface, insert 4 D batteries (not included), press the power button, then use the digital display and control dial to set the current time and program up to 12 meals per day with specific portions (1/8 cup increments).
When you unbox the PetSafe Simply Feed, you’ll find the feeder base, a 5-cup capacity food hopper, a stainless steel bowl, and an instruction manual. Before you start, ensure you have 4 D-cell batteries (alkaline or rechargeable) and a clean, dry, level surface for the feeder, preferably near a wall outlet if you plan to use the optional AC adapter (sold separately).
To begin, remove the hopper from the base by lifting it straight up. Insert the batteries into the compartment on the underside of the base, matching the polarity symbols. Then, press the power button located on the back of the unit; the display will light up. Place the hopper back onto the base, ensuring it clicks into place. Finally, attach the stainless steel bowl to the front of the base until it snaps securely.
One important note: the feeder is designed to dispense food into the bowl, so make sure the bowl is properly attached before programming, or the food may spill onto the floor.
The control dial and display make programming straightforward. Start by turning the dial to the ‘SET CLOCK’ position. Use the ‘+’ and ‘ ‘ buttons to adjust the hour, then press the dial to confirm and move to minutes. Repeat to set the time, making sure AM/PM is correct (the display shows a small AM/PM indicator).
Once the clock is set, turn the dial to ‘SET MEAL’. You’ll see ‘MEAL 1’ on the display. Use ‘+’ and ‘ ‘ to set the hour and minutes for the first meal, pressing the dial to confirm each step. After setting the time, the display will show ‘PORTION’. Here, you can set how much food to dispense in 1/8 cup increments, from 1/8 to 4 cups. Use ‘+’ and ‘ ‘ to adjust, then press the dial to save. The feeder will return to ‘MEAL 1’, and you can turn the dial to ‘MEAL 2’ and repeat the process. You can program up to 12 meals per day.
After programming all desired meals, turn the dial to the ‘RUN’ position. The display will show the current time and a check mark next to the next scheduled meal. The feeder is now active and will dispense at the set times.
The PetSafe Simply Feed allows precise portion control, which is ideal for cats on a diet or those prone to overeating. The minimum portion is 1/8 cup, and the maximum is 4 cups per meal. To determine the right portion for your cat, consult your veterinarian; a typical adult cat eats about 1/2 cup of dry food per day, divided into two meals. You can also use the ‘Manual Feed’ function (press the button on the front) to dispense a small amount as a treat or to test the feeder.
For kittens or cats with special needs, you can adjust the number of meals and portions accordingly. The feeder also has a ‘Slow Feed’ option that dispenses the portion over several minutes, which can help cats who eat too quickly. To enable slow feed, hold the ‘Manual’ button for 5 seconds until the display shows ‘SLOW’.
Remember that the hopper holds up to 5 cups of dry food, so you may need to refill it regularly depending on your cat’s consumption. The feeder will sound a beep when the hopper is empty, but it’s best to check it daily.
Regular cleaning ensures the feeder works properly and your cat’s food stays fresh. Unplug the feeder and remove the hopper. Wash the hopper and stainless steel bowl with warm, soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Do not submerge the base in water; instead, wipe it with a damp cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could damage the plastic.
It’s also a good idea to check the auger (the rotating part inside the base) for any food debris that might clog it. Use a dry cloth or small brush to clean it carefully. Reassemble the feeder once all parts are dry.
Battery life varies, but with typical use, 4 D batteries can last several months. When the low battery indicator appears on the display, replace the batteries promptly to avoid missed meals.
If the feeder is not dispensing food at the set time, first verify that the clock is set correctly and the dial is in the ‘RUN’ position. Also, ensure the hopper is properly seated and the bowl is attached. If the feeder dispenses too much or too little food, recalibrate the portion settings by turning the dial to ‘SET MEAL’ and adjusting the portion size.
Another common issue is food jams, often caused by irregularly shaped kibble or moisture clumping. Use dry, uniform kibble and avoid filling the hopper above the ‘MAX’ line. If a jam occurs, remove the hopper, clear any blockages, and run a manual feed test.
If the display is blank, check the batteries and power connection. If the feeder beeps continuously, it may indicate a mechanical problem; consult the manual or contact PetSafe customer support.
Can I use the PetSafe Simply Feed for both cats and dogs? Yes, the feeder works for both, as long as the kibble size is appropriate for the auger. It’s most commonly used for cats but can be used for small to medium dogs.
Does the feeder work with wet food? No, the PetSafe Simply Feed is designed for dry food only. Wet food would spoil and could damage the mechanism.
What happens if the power goes out? The feeder has a battery backup, so it will continue to operate on battery power. When power is restored, the feeder will resume its normal schedule.
For a detailed comparison of top automatic feeders, including the PetSafe Simply Feed, check our comprehensive guide on Which Automatic Cat Feeder Is Best? PetSafe Simply Feed Wins.
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