How to Make a Pet Feeder

Feeding pets can become difficult while working long days or otherwise being out of the house for extended periods of time. A homemade pet feeder can help provide a fresh supply of food to your dog, cat, pig or otherwise mobile animal that eats dry food. However, it's important to remember that pet feeder devices should only be used for animals who are capable of regulating their food intake. There is no specific portion control with this type of feeder and young, or hungry, animals may overindulge.

Things You'll Need

  • Five-gallon bucket
  • Cookie sheet
  • Permanent marker
  • Jigsaw
  • Double-sided tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Trace a half moon shape onto the bottom of a clean 5-gallon bucket on one side only. Estimate the height of the arch so that it is approximately one inch from the bottom of the bucket at its highest point. Cut out the arched shape using a jigsaw or other sharp tool. Be sure to only cut from the side of the bucket, as the bottom should remain totally intact.

    • 2

      Place a clean cookie sheet in a corner near where the animal is used to receiving his meals. Secure the bucket onto the back of the cookie sheet, with the cut out facing forward, using double-sided tape. Using a cookie sheet with tall sides will help prevent food from being knocked out of the tray during meal time.

    • 3

      Fill the bucket with food while covering the cut out opening with your hand. Remove your hand once the bucket is full and allow food to flow out onto the cookie sheet. As the animal eats food from the tray, space will be created and allow additional food to come out of the bucket.

    • 4

      Cover the top of the bucket with a lid so that your pet does not bypass the controlled flow mechanism to help himself to food straight from the top of the bucket.