Why does my pet feeder food stay damp or clump together?

Modified on Tue, 25 Aug at 8:32 AM

If the food is sticking together or feeling damp, the feeder may struggle to dispense it evenly. The safest first step is to stop the feed cycle, remove the wet food and dry the feeder components before trying again. If the food chamber or dispensing area shows moisture inside, stop using the product and contact the retailer or store where it was purchased.

Check the food condition

  1. Remove the hopper contents and inspect whether the food has absorbed moisture or become sticky.
  2. Replace it with fresh dry food within the stated size range.
  3. Check the storage area around the feeder for condensation, spills or humidity.

If fresh dry food dispenses properly, the original food batch was likely the cause.

Check the feeder parts

  1. Wipe the hopper, bowl and outlet with a dry cloth before refilling.
  2. Make sure no cleaning water is left in the unit before switching it back on.
  3. Confirm the feeder is on a dry, level surface away from bowls of water or splashing.

If clumping stops after cleaning and refilling, moisture was probably affecting the flow. Do not use damp food again, because it can cause repeated jams.

When to stop using it

Stop using the feeder if you see water inside the housing, if the feed mechanism sounds strained, or if food continues to stick after you have checked the hopper and surface. If the issue remains unresolved or safe use is uncertain, contact the retailer or store where the product was purchased.

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