7 Weird Pet Products That Actually Work
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Pet gear gets delightfully strange—and sometimes shockingly useful. These are the quirky picks that earned a permanent spot in our pet corner, with notes on who they’re best for. We’ve included pros/cons and a quick buyer’s guide to help you choose.
Smart Treat Dispenser
Schedules treat tosses and lets you toss one from your phone to reward calm behavior. Great for separation training and mid-day enrichment. Look for models with 2-way audio. Smart treat dispenser
Pros
- Remote training and enrichment
- Handy for separation anxiety routines
- Night vision and activity alerts on many models
Cons
- Needs stable Wi‑Fi and an outlet
- Treat size and shape compatibility varies
Cat Puzzle Feeder
Turns dinner into a hunting game to slow scarfers and curb boredom. Adjustable difficulty keeps it fresh, and the non-slip base saves you from scatter feeding. Cat puzzle feeder
Pros
- Slows fast eaters and aids digestion
- Mental stimulation reduces boredom behaviors
- Easy to clean and adjust
Cons
- Some cats need a short learning period
- Not ideal for wet food without trays
LED Night Collar
Bright, USB-rechargeable glow so your pup stands out on late walks and at the dog park. Pick a trim-to-fit model and water-resistant housing. LED night collar
Pros
- Visibility for night walks and parks
- Rechargeable with long runtimes
- Trim-to-fit for various neck sizes
Cons
- Not a replacement for reflective leashes
- Check water rating before puddle season
Window-Mounted Cat Perch
Suction-cup hammock that sticks to glass so cats can soak in sun and bird TV. Choose one with large cups and a washable cover for easy cleaning.
Pros
- Sun and stimulation without floor space
- Washable covers
- Most support 20–40 lb combined weight
Cons
- Requires very clean glass for best adhesion
- Periodic cup checks to maintain suction
Portable Paw Washer Cup
Soft silicone bristles scrub mud and sand off paws at the door—twist, rinse, and you’re done. Keep one by the back step and another in the car for trails.
Pros
- Fast cleanup for muddy days
- Gentle silicone bristles
- Great for trail runs and beaches
Cons
- Needs water/soap nearby
- Choose size carefully for giant breeds
Automatic Ball Launcher
Great for fetch-obsessed pups who never run out of zoomies. Use supervised and set a short distance indoors; pair with low-bounce balls for safety.
Pros
- Burns energy for high-drive dogs
- Adjustable distance settings
- Works with standard mini balls (varies by model)
Cons
- Must supervise to avoid overexertion
- Some dogs try to load from wrong side—train a cue
Pet Camera with Treat Toss
Two-way audio, night vision, and a treat flinger so you can check in and reward calm behavior from anywhere. Handy for vocal dogs and destructive chewers.
Pros
- Real-time check-ins and alerts
- Reinforce calm behaviors remotely
- Night vision for low-light rooms
Cons
- Subscription fees for advanced features
- Treat size compatibility varies
See also: Odd Pet Products You Can Buy and Strangest Kitchen Gadgets.
FAQ
Are these pet gadgets safe?
Look for BPA-free plastics, supervised-use labels, and size guidance. When in doubt, start with short sessions and observe.
Which weird pet product should I buy first?
Start with an LED collar for visibility and a puzzle feeder for enrichment—both offer daily benefits for most pets.
How to Choose Weird Pet Products
- Safety first: Look for BPA-free plastics, chew-resistant materials, and size guidance.
- Fit for species and size: Cat vs dog products differ; check weight limits on perches and harnesses.
- Supervision level: Some gadgets (ball launchers, cameras) require supervision or training.
- Cleanup ease: Dishwasher-safe parts and washable covers save time.
- Power and Wi‑Fi: Smart devices need stable Wi‑Fi and outlets where you’ll place them.
Build your starter set with a puzzle feeder, LED collar, and paw washer. For connected options, pair a pet cam with a Smart Treat Dispenser and add structured quiet-time training.
Tips for Training and Use
- Introductions: Let pets sniff new gadgets while they’re off. Pair first use with treats for a positive association.
- Short sessions: Start with 3–5 minutes on puzzle feeders or lick mats and build up.
- Safety checks: Inspect suction cups, straps, and cables weekly for wear.
- Quiet mode: For cameras and dispensers, reduce notifications and sounds that might startle nervous pets.
- Hygiene: Wash food-contact parts daily; sanitize fabrics on a schedule (especially for allergy-prone animals).
Care and Maintenance
- Plastics and silicone: Top-rack dishwasher unless the manual says hand-wash.
- Fabrics: Use gentle cycles; air-dry bolsters to preserve shape.
- Electronics: Unplug before cleaning; wipe with microfiber and mild soap.
Quick Picks
- Best for anxious starters: LED Night Collar + soothing night walks.
- Best for mental work: Cat Puzzle Feeder with adjustable difficulty.
- Best for check-ins: Pet Camera with Treat Toss to reinforce calm.
- Best for muddy seasons: Portable Paw Washer Cup staged by the door.
Safety Checklist
- Match size/weight limits on perches and backpacks.
- Supervise during first week of use for any new gadget.
- Secure cables, chargers, and dangling straps out of reach.
- Replace worn suction cups and fraying fabrics promptly.
Budget and Value
Spend more on daily-use items (bowls, collars) and buy once, cry once. For novelty gadgets, look for strong return policies so you can see if your pet actually enjoys the experience before committing.