What is a Pet Camera?

A pet camera is a device that allows you to monitor your pets when you are not at home. They are especially useful for checking up on pets that are left alone for extended periods, helping to monitor their behaviour and well-being.

Many pet cameras feature different capabilities, from strictly live video streaming to include additional features such as treat dispensers, two-way audio communication, night vision, and motion detection.

Some pet cameras give an overview of the entire room with features like a 165-degree field-of-view like the Owlet Home Pet Camera.

Pet cameras not only allow you to observe your pet, but some also enable you to interact with your pet. You can capture adorable moments of your pet's life or discover and address any possible separation anxiety issues.

Note that there are specialized pet cameras, while some recommend specific indoor security cameras that can also function effectively as pet cameras, and therefore act as part of your wider Home Security System.

Considering the variety and features present amongst pet cameras, it's essential to choose one based on your specific needs and your pet's behaviour.

Are pet cameras wireless?

Many pet cameras are wireless, providing an easy and convenient way to monitor your pets without the need for excessive cables. Wireless pet cameras usually connect to your home's Wi-Fi and can be accessed through a smartphone app, allowing you to keep an eye on your pets remotely. 

Are indoor pet cameras for the home worth it?

Indoor pet cameras for the home can be a worthwhile investment for many pet owners, and their value stems from several factors.

Firstly, pet cameras allow you to monitor your pets 24/7. This constant surveillance is beneficial for pet owners who leave pets at home for extended periods. You can check on their feeding, behaviour, and safety, mitigating any anxiety about your pet's well-being when you're not home.

Certain pet cameras come with treat dispensers and enable two-way communication, which can be useful for training and interacting with your pets remotely. Some specific models for dogs, like the Furbo 360-Degree Dog Camera, or for active pets like the Skymee Owl Robo, can offer specialized features to meet different needs.

A good pet camera for the home can make your time away painless, offering first-hand reassurance that your pet is happy and safe. 

Although indoor pet cameras for the home offer several advantages - ease of mind, promote better care for pets, and even the possibility of treating and interacting with them - it's crucial to consider factors like your pet's needs, camera cost, feature quality, and your time away from home when deciding if they're worthwhile for you.

Do pet cameras help pets with separation anxiety 

Pet cameras can be an integral part of the approach to managing and treating a dog's separation anxiety. They allow pet owners to observe their pets in real time and assess their behaviour when left alone, which is the first step in understanding the severity and triggers of their anxiety. By using pet cameras, you can recognize symptoms of distress, such as pacing, vocalizing, or destructive behaviour, and the degree to which these behaviours occur.

However, while pet cameras can assist in the diagnosis and management of separation anxiety, they do not directly alleviate the condition. Instead, they serve as a tool for pet parents to use as part of a broader treatment plan, which may include behaviour modification, environmental enrichment, and, in some cases, medication prescribed by a veterinarian. Additionally, pet cameras with two-way audio allow owners to interact with their pets, potentially providing comfort from their voice.

How much do pet cameras cost?

The cost of pet cameras varies significantly depending on the features, brand, and where you buy them.

For instance, a basic model such as the Blink Mini Indoor Wi-Fi Security Camera is available at a relatively low price, typically around £25. On the other hand, a more feature-rich device like the Furbo 360° Dog Camera might cost around £200. Other popular models fall somewhere in between these extremes, with the Wyze Cam v3 approximately costing £40 and the Eufy Indoor Cam E220 priced around £50.

Please note that these costs are estimated from the time the sources were last updated and are therefore subject to change based on factors like discounts, promotions, or changes in the manufacturer's pricing strategy.

What are collar pet cameras?

Collar pet cameras are small, lightweight devices that can be attached directly to your pet's collar. These devices allow you to capture video and photographs from your pet's perspective, allowing you insights into their behaviour and activities. 

One popular collar pet camera is the Uncle Milton Pet’s Eye View Camera, recognized for its image quality at a resolution of 640 x 480. The videos and photos are captured in the perspective of your pet providing you with unique footage. Be aware that every pet collar camera has different capabilities, including live streaming and motion sensing options.

It's also important to note that these devices vary widely in terms of their quality and the specifics of their use cases, making it crucial to consider your particular needs and your pet's behaviours before purchasing.

What are the top 5 features of a pet camera ?

Here are the top five features to consider when purchasing a pet camera:

Video Quality

To monitor your pet appropriately, it is critical to have high video quality. Look for a pet camera that provides at least 720p HD video quality. Some top-of-the-line pet cameras even offer full 1080p HD or 4K video quality.

Two-Way Audio

A two-way audio feature allows you to listen to what's happening at home and also talk to your pet. This feature can be beneficial for comforting pets if they are feeling anxious or keeping them entertained.

Treat Dispenser

Some pet cameras come with a treat dispenser, allowing you to reward your pet from afar. This can be a great feature for training your pet or simply keeping them happy while you're away.

Motion/Sound Detection

Motion or sound detection can notify you if there's unusual activity in your home, such as barking or other distress noises. Some even include bark detection or unusual activity detection, which sends alerts to your smartphone.

Night Vision

Night vision allows you to keep an eye on your pet even in low light conditions or at night. This feature can be especially useful if you often stay out late or if your pet sleeps in a different room.

The best features for you in a pet camera depend on your pet's nature, how often you're away from home, your pet's specific needs, and your personal preferences.