Are Smart Cat Gadgets Really Smart? Popular Cat Gadgets That Could Harm Your Cat

It’s 2025, and technology is everywhere, even in pet care. With so many automated cat gadgets on the market, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking they’ll make life easier. But not all smart devices are as safe as they seem. 

Some can pose serious risks to your cat’s health and well-being, from physical injuries to stress and anxiety. Before you invest in the latest high-tech pet gear, take a closer look at these 7 popular cat gadgets that could harm your cat.

7 Popular Smart Cat Gadgets That Could Be Dangerous

These gadgets can make life easier for you and your cat, but some can do more harm than good. While some are amazing, others can hurt your cat or make them stressed and unhappy. Picking the right one guarantees your cat's safety, health, and happiness.

Closed self-cleaning litter boxes

Cats can get really stressed if their litter box isn’t cleaned often enough. An automated one would solve that problem in an instant. 

But a closed automated litter box could only make things worse.

Why they're risky:

• They trap ammonia from urine, which can make it harder for cats to breathe.
• If the automatic scooper moves while your cat is inside, it can scare or even hurt them.
• Some models overheat, which could burn your cat.
• The motion-activated door could malfunction and close on the cat’s neck.

Better option

If you want an automatic litter box, choose an open one. You could make sure it has quiet operation, motion sensors, and a manual setting to prevent accidents.

Shock collars for meowing 

Cats have evolved to meow to communicate with humans. Yet, some cat owners get easily overwhelmed by constant meowing and would try to control it with shock therapy.

Why they’re risky:

• The shocks can burn their skin.
• A tight or heavy collar can cause neck injuries.
• Shocks may even affect their heart rhythm.

How it affects cats:

• They might become anxious and stop trusting you.
• Some cats become sad and withdrawn.
• Others might lash out in confusion.

Better option 

Instead of punishment, figure out why your cat is meowing. They could be hungry, bored, or just want attention. 

Address the real issue with positive reinforcement.

Laser pointers 

These fun little toys are entertaining for both you and your cat. Plus, playing together is a great way to bond. 

But not all lasers are cat-friendly because some produce an extremely bright ray.  

Why they’re risky:

• Direct exposure can harm their eyes.
• The endless chase with no real "catch" can stress them out.
• Some cats develop obsessive behaviours, like chasing lights all the time.

Better option

If you use a laser toy, always end the game by pointing it at a treat or toy they can physically catch.

GPS collars with shock or vibration 

If you let your cat outside, you'd normally like to know where they are in case they’re gone for too long. But some GPS collars include shocks and vibrations which could be harmful to your cat while it’s outdoors.

Why they’re risky:

• The shock and vibrations can scare or confuse them.
• Some collars are too heavy, making it hard for cats to move comfortably.
• If the collar gets caught on something, it could choke them.

Better option

Use a lightweight GPS tracker with a breakaway design, so they can escape if it gets stuck.

Automatic treat dispensers 

Wouldn’t it be lovely to be able to give your cat a treat even when you’re not home? It will keep them excited and occupied. 

But some automated treat dispensers have a mind of their own if you don’t regulate it closely.

Why they're risky:

• If it malfunctions, it could give too many treats, leading to obesity.
• If the treats are too big or come out too fast, they could choke.

How it affects cats:

• Some cats get obsessed with the machine, waiting by it all day.
• If they rely on a machine for food instead of you, it weakens your bond.

Better option

Use a dispenser with portion control, but still hand-feed your cat sometimes to keep the bond strong.

Water fountains with bad filtration 

Cats refuse to drink water that’s dirty or has been sitting out for too long. 

So instead of worrying about the water bowl every day, you could get a water fountain so your cat has fresh and clean water all the time, right? 

Yes, but only if you choose one with a good filter.

Why they’re risky:

• If the filter isn’t cleaned often, bacteria and mold can grow.
• Some fountains stop working randomly, leaving your cat without water.

How it affects cats:

• Noisy fountains might scare them away from drinking water.
• If they don’t drink enough, they could get dehydrated.

Better option

Choose a quiet, well-filtered fountain, and always keep a backup water bowl.

Smart doors with low-quality sensors 

If you have a yard, you probably let your cat outside. But you can’t keep getting up to open and close the door. So a cat door would be the ideal solution.

That’s a great idea, as long as the cat door isn’t automated. 

Why they’re risky:

• If the door closes too fast, it can hurt their paws or tail.
• If it malfunctions, your cat could get locked out.

How it affects cats:

• If they get scared by the door, they might refuse to use it.
• Being locked out too long could cause anxiety.

Better option

Get a door with a slow-close feature and test it often. Always have another way for your cat to get inside.

Final Thoughts

We live fast lives. You might always be busy, have something to do and somewhere to be. But you also want to be the best cat parent you could be. Investing in smart cat gadgets is a smart move. 

But before you invest in the latest high-tech pet gear, take a closer look and inform yourself about the product. Convenience should never come at the cost of your cat’s safety.