From robot ball-throwers to hamster wheels integrated with smart home systems, humans have always been fascinated by the potential of technology to enhance the lives of their furry friends. And it’s not just cats and dogs that are benefiting from these innovative solutions – a wide range of animals, from fish to iguanas and even wilder creatures, are being helped by clever humans who want to see what kind of projects they can come up with.
Whether it’s a clever hack to keep your pet safe, a fun gadget to make them happy, or a system to make them more autonomous, the possibilities are endless. And to celebrate this creativity, the makers at Hackaday have launched a contest called Pet Hacks, where you can share your own innovative solutions and win a $150 gift certificate from DigiKey.
So, what kind of pet hacks are we looking for? Here are some examples of the types of projects that are eligible for entry:
- Pet Safety: Hacks that help keep your pet safe from harm, such as automatic doors that prevent escape or devices that detect health problems early.
- Playful Pets: Hacks that bring joy and entertainment to your pet, such as interactive toys or games that challenge their minds.
- Cyborg Pets: Hacks that enhance your pet’s physical abilities or provide them with new sensory experiences, such as custom prosthetics or LED lights.
- Home Alone: Hacks that make your pet more independent and autonomous, such as automated feeders or devices that monitor their health.
We’re excited to see what kind of innovative solutions you come up with, and we’re already seeing some amazing examples from our community. Here are a few of our favorites:
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“We’ve seen an amazing number of pet hacks here at Hackaday, from simple to wildly overkill. And we love them all!” – Hackaday Team
From simple aquariums with automated lighting and temperature control to cat elevators and sun-tracking chairs, there’s no shortage of creativity in the pet hacking community.
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Example 1: Blue Blade Fish Aquarium
This project features a 15-video series that showcases a system with multiple light setups, temperature control, water level sensing, and more. It’s a testament to the creativity and innovation that can be achieved with even the simplest of pet hacks.
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Example 2: Cat-o-Matic 3000
This automated feeder for indoor cats is designed to keep track of who has been fed and ensure that each cat gets the right amount of food. It’s a great example of a hack that makes life easier for both the cat and its owner.
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Example 3: Audible Go-Fetch Toy for Lucy
This project was inspired by a dog who lost her vision but still wanted to play fetch. The creators designed an audible go-fetch toy that uses audio cues to help the dog play even when she can’t see.
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Example 4: Chicken McMansion
This massive chicken coop is designed to provide a safe and healthy environment for chickens. It’s a great example of a hack that goes beyond just keeping the chicken safe – it provides a whole ecosystem for the birds to thrive in.
We’re excited to see what kind of innovative solutions you come up with, and we’re already seeing some amazing examples from our community. Whether you’re a seasoned hacker or just starting out, we encourage you to share your pet hacks with us and join the conversation.
| Category | Project | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pet Safety | Automatic Door | A device that detects when a pet is trying to escape and closes the door to prevent it. |
| Playful Pets | Interactive Toy | A toy that challenges a pet’s mind and provides hours of entertainment. |
| Cyborg Pets | Custom Prosthetics | A prosthetic limb that enhances a pet’s physical abilities. |
| Home Alone | Automatic Feeder | A device that monitors a pet’s food intake and ensures that it gets the right amount of food. |
We’re looking forward to seeing what kind of innovative solutions you come up with, and we’re already seeing some amazing examples from our community.
