A new player in the pet tech industry is setting its sights on a growing problem among city-dwelling felines: obesity. Late 2024, Bay Area startup Sphinx is launching an AI-powered automatic cat feeder that could revolutionize how urban pet owners care for their indoor cats. With 61% of cats nationwide facing weight issues, the problem is particularly acute in cities where pets spend most of their time indoors. Sphinx founder Grant Barnekow explains, “Urban cat owners face unique challenges. Limited space and busy lifestyles can lead to overfeeding and lack of activity for pets.” The Sphinx feeder uses AI to address these challenges head-on. Its precise portion control system is designed to prevent overfeeding, a common issue in multi-cat households or when owners are away for long hours. This feature works in tandem with customizable feeding schedules that mimic cats’ natural grazing behaviors, potentially reducing anxiety and overeating in indoor cats. Food freshness, often a concern with automatic feeders, is tackled through built-in cooling and warming functions. “Our system keeps wet food at a safe temperature until it’s time to eat, then warms it to increase palatability,” told LA Weekly. This approach not only maintains food safety but also caters to the preferences of picky eaters, a common trait among indoor cats. Perhaps most innovative is the feeder’s consumption tracking capability. This feature allows pet owners to monitor their cat’s eating habits over time, potentially catching health issues early. According to Barnekow, “it’s like having a nutritionist for your cat. You can spot patterns and adjust accordingly, all through an easy-to-use app.” “Our goal is to make it easier for busy urban pet owners to provide optimal nutrition for their cats,” said Barnekow. “It’s about using technology to enhance the bond between pets and their owners, not replace it.” As cities like Los Angeles continue to see a rise in pet ownership, especially in apartments and condos, solutions like Sphinx could play a crucial role in maintaining feline health. The post Tech Startup Aims to Solve Urban Cat Obesity Crisis appeared first on LA Weekly.