> At a Glance
> – Swiss startup AI-Tails unveiled a $199-$299 AI-powered feeder at CES 2026
> – Cameras and sensors track food intake, water consumption, temperature, and facial expressions
> – Optional app costs $21/month after a six-month trial
> – Why it matters: Catches early illness signs, potentially sparing owners costly emergency visits
Pet illnesses hit hearts and wallets-AI-Tails’ smart station aims to flag problems early while your cat snacks.
How the Feeder Works
A dual-bowl station snaps pics and logs vitals every time your cat approaches. Algorithms compare fresh data to baseline patterns, pinging your phone if anything drifts.
- Tracks food and water consumption to the gram and milliliter
- Infrared temperature sensor spots fevers (adds $100)
- Facial-expression analysis watches for pain or stress cues
- Cloud engine decides whether the cat is “healthy” or “needs attention”
From Personal Loss to Product
Creator Angelica De Riggi began the project after her own cat died from an illness caught too late. She teamed with Swiss researchers to build the data set powering the AI.
> “With AI, we have more ways to monitor health, especially we as humans monitor everything with smart watches. I think AI is also ready to do the same now for our pets.”
Pricing and Availability
| Version | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $199 | Food/water/expression tracking |
| Plus | $299 | Adds temperature sensor |
| App | $21/mo | After six free months |
Pre-orders are open now; global shipments start Q4 2026.
Key Takeaways
- AI-Tails feeder turns mealtime into a daily health check
- Optional temperature model costs $100 extra
- Monthly app subscription begins after a six-month grace period
- Dog version is on the drawing board for 2028
Early warning could mean fewer surprise vet bills-and more healthy years with furry companions.
