--- title: "Pet technology for the modern pet parent" id: "7975" type: "post" slug: "pet-technology-for-the-modern-pet-parent" published_at: "2026-11-06T09:56:12+00:00" modified_at: "2026-11-06T10:52:42+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/pet-technology-for-the-modern-pet-parent/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/pet-technology-for-the-modern-pet-parent.md" excerpt: "We track our steps, automate our homes and video-call our loved ones, so it's no surprise that technology has come for the pet world too. These days there's a clever gadget for almost everything, from feeding and tracking to keeping..." taxonomy_category: - "Facts & fun" --- [Pet Talk](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/) [Facts & fun](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/category/facts-and-fun/) Pet technology for the modern pet parent Facts & fun # Pet technology for the modern pet parent Written by our RSPCA Pet Insurance Team 6 Nov, 2026 - 6 min read *This article provides general information only and doesn’t take into account your individual circumstances. Terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions apply. Please read the relevant PDS. Accurate as at 6 November 2026.* *This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised veterinary advice. Always speak with your vet about your pet’s individual health needs. Accurate as at 6 November 2026.* We track our steps, automate our homes and video-call our loved ones, so it’s no surprise that technology has come for the pet world too. These days there’s a clever gadget for almost everything, from feeding and tracking to keeping an eye on your pet while you’re at work. Used appropriately, pet tech can make some aspects of pet care easier and help support your pet’s individual needs. But it works best as a helping hand, not a replacement for good old-fashioned care. Here’s a friendly guide to the pet technology worth knowing about, and how to use it with your pet’s needs and welfare in mind. **Table of contents** - [First, the non-negotiable: microchipping](#first-the-non-negotiable-microchipping) - [GPS trackers](#gps-trackers) - [Pet cameras](#pet-cameras) - [Automatic feeders](#automatic-feeders) - [Puzzle and interactive toys](#puzzle-and-interactive-toys) - [Other smart gadgets](#other-smart-gadgets) - [The golden rule: tech supports, it doesn’t replace](#the-golden-rule-tech-supports-it-doesnt-replace) - [How pet insurance can help](#how-pet-insurance-can-help) ## First, the non-negotiable: microchipping Before we get to the fun gadgets, let’s start with something different: microchipping is an essential part of responsible ownership, rather than an optional piece of tech. A microchip is a permanent form of identification, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted just under your pet’s skin. Each one has a unique number linked to your contact details on a registry. If your pet ever gets lost, a vet, shelter or council can scan the chip and reunite you. You’re far more likely to get your pet back if they’re microchipped, and in most states and territories it’s a legal requirement for cats and dogs. The crucial catch: keep your contact details up to date on the registry so you can be contacted if your pet is found. ## GPS trackers A GPS tracker is a small device, usually attached to your pet’s collar, that lets you see their live location on your phone. For pets who tend to wander or are at risk of getting lost, it can offer reassurance and help you find them if they go missing. One important note: a GPS tracker is a useful extra, but it’s not a substitute for microchipping (which doesn’t rely on batteries or signal) or for keeping your pet safely contained. Think of it as a helpful add-on, not your primary safety net. ## Pet cameras Pet cameras let you check in on your pet while you’re out, and many include two-way audio so you can talk to (and hear) them, with some even dispensing treats. They can be a useful way to see what your pet’s up to, while you’re out. Here’s the welfare caveat, though: a camera should never be used as an excuse to leave your pet on their own for too long. Seeing your dog on a screen isn’t the same as being there, and it should not be treated as a replacement for appropriate social interaction. Use a camera to stay connected, not to stretch the time your pet spends alone. ## Automatic feeders Automatic feeders dispense food at set times, which can help keep your pet’s meals on schedule, handy if you’re occasionally held up. Some even let you record a voice message to call your pet to dinner. They’re a useful tool, but they don’t replace appropriate hands-on care and monitoring, including their eating habits. It’s also important to make sure you’re feeding an appropriate amount for your individual pet and regularly check that your automatic feeder is working properly to make sure your pet isn’t skipping meals or getting too much food. ## Puzzle and interactive toys This is where tech and good welfare really align. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys and interactive gadgets can engage your pet’s mind, and tap into natural behaviours like foraging and problem-solving. When choosing any toy, safety and suitability should be the top priority. Pick durable, appropriately sized products with no small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed, supervise your pet (especially with anything new), and consider rotating toys to keep things interesting. Used appropriately, puzzles and interactive toys can be a great addition to your pet’s life. ## Other smart gadgets The pet-tech world keeps growing, with self-cleaning litter trays, smart water fountains, activity monitors and more. Some may be genuinely useful, a water fountain may encourage a cat to drink more, for example. As with any gadget, the test is simple: is it safe and suitable for your pet, does it support their individual needs and support natural behaviours, has it been adequately tested and does it meet the required safety standards? If yes, it may be a worthwhile addition, but remember that these gadgets are optional rather than essential. ## The golden rule: tech supports, it doesn’t replace If there’s one thing to take away, it’s this: pet technology is at its best when it supports your care, not when it stands in for it. No camera, automatic feeder, or gadget can replace hands-on care or meet your pet’s individual needs. Technology also doesn’t replace quality time with you or where appropriate, social interactions with other animals. Regular interaction with your pet also gives you opportunities to notice changes in their behaviour, appetite or health. So by all means, embrace the gadgets that make life easier and enrich your pet’s world. Just keep your pet’s individual needs, your relationship with them and good old-fashioned hands-on care firmly at the centre. That’s something no technology can replace. ## How pet insurance can help For all the clever gadgets available, one of the most practical things a modern pet parent can do is plan for the unexpected. Accidents and illnesses can happen to any pet, and pet insurance can help cover some of those vet costs, so you can focus on your pet’s health. With [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , you can customise your dog’s or cat’s cover to suit your needs and budget. And every policy also contributes to vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , including rescue, rehab and rehoming for animals in need. To learn more, visit the [RSPCA Pet Insurance website](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , or fetch a commitment-free quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### **Disclaimer** As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. **References** [1] RSPCA Australia. *Why is it important to ensure my pet is microchipped?* Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/pet-ownership/why-is-it-important-to-ensure-my-pet-is-microchipped](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/pet-ownership/why-is-it-important-to-ensure-my-pet-is-microchipped) [2] RSPCA Australia. *Why is enrichment important for dogs?* Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/why-is-enrichment-important-for-dogs](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/why-is-enrichment-important-for-dogs) [3] RSPCA Australia. *What should I feed my cat?* Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/cats/caring-for-my-cat/what-should-i-feed-my-cat](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/cats/caring-for-my-cat/what-should-i-feed-my-cat) [4] FOUR PAWS International. *The pet technology revolution.* Available from: [https://www.four-paws.org/our-stories/publications-guides/pet-technology-revolution](https://www.four-paws.org/our-stories/publications-guides/pet-technology-revolution) ## FAQs ### What types of pet technology are available? There’s a growing range, including GPS trackers for locating pets, pet cameras for checking in (often with two-way audio), automatic feeders for scheduled meals, self-cleaning litter trays, and interactive or puzzle toys for enrichment. The best choice depends on your individual pet’s needs and your lifestyle. ### Is a GPS tracker the same as a microchip? No, and it’s an important distinction. A microchip is a permanent form of identification that can help a vet, shelter or council reunite a found pet with their owner. Microchipping is an essential part of responsible pet ownership and is mandatory for cats and dogs in most Australian states and territories. A GPS tracker is a wearable device that can show you your pet’s live location, which can be handy, but it isn’t a replacement for microchipping. ### Can a pet camera replace spending time with my pet? No. A pet camera is a useful way to check in, monitor and even talk to your pet while you’re out, but it should never be used as an excuse to leave them alone for too long or a replacement for appropriate social interaction. Technology such as a pet camera can be a helpful supplement to hands-on care, not a substitute for it. ### Are automatic feeders and interactive toys safe for pets? They can be great tools when chosen carefully. Automatic feeders help keep meals on schedule, while puzzle feeders and interactive toys provide valuable enrichment. The key is to prioritise safety and your pet’s individual needs: choose durable, adequately tested and appropriately sized products with no small parts that could be swallowed, and supervise your pet with any new item. [See more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/faqs/) ## Related blogs [Cat toys and enrichment: how to keep playtime fun, stimulating, and safe Jul 2026 - 8 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/cat-toys-and-enrichment/) [Lost your pet on a road trip? Here’s what to do Oct 2026 - 10 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/lost-your-pet-on-a-road-trip-heres-what-to-do/) [Separation anxiety in dogs: Symptoms, causes, and proven ways to help Feb 2026 - 7 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/separation-anxiety-in-dogs/)