You can now use AI to monitor your cat’s litterbox habits

Petivity is designed to analyze feline behavior for health conditions.

Cats are purring their way into the AI world with a litterbox monitor connected to a smartphone app.

Nestle Purina Petcare has launched the Petivity Smart Litterbox System, which analyzes the behavior of cats and sends alerts to owners to help them with cat care. Customers can purchase the equipment for $199.99 for their furry friends.

The AI-enabled system helps monitor a cat’s frequency, waste type, weight, and elimination cycle, along with each feline’s litterbox behavior. Cats get their own personal insights report, which can aid owners with preventative care.  

"While the device is not intended to diagnose, treat, mitigate, or cure any conditions, it can help detect changes that can be early signs of health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, urinary tract infections, and obesity, allowing cat owners to proactively seek out veterinary care earlier and unlock better outcomes," said Dr. Avi Shaprut, a Purina veterinarian who helped develop the AI system.

Figure 1:

Changes in feline routines and patterns can indicate a possible health issue that may drive owners to visit a veterinarian. The data is automatically sent to the Petivity smartphone app, which can be used on Android and iPhone devices.

Pet owners who want to constantly monitor their cat’s health would benefit from the AI system. If an owner is concerned about an underlying health condition, they could keep regular tabs on a cat’s weight gain or loss with the system’s weight management program. Cat owners would be connected to their animal's behavior with a simple check on their smartphone.

Up to three cats can be monitored with the Petivity Litterbox System. The device can be outfitted to standard litterbox sizes and litter. The software can send email notifications, along with alerts through the app. Owners can get frequent personal insights reports, as well as tips and explanations for maintaining their cat’s health and well-being.