When I leave the house, I always wonder what my pets are up to. Are they sleeping? Are they into mischief? A pet camera takes the guesswork out. I’ve tested different models over the years, and a few really stood out. Here are the ones I’d actually recommend.
Quick Pick: Best Choice
If you only want one option, go for the PETLIBRO Scout Smart Camera. The AI features and 360° coverage make it the smartest camera I’ve used for multi-pet homes.
Considerations
Before jumping into the list, here’s what I’ve learned matters most:
Video quality & coverage: 2K looks sharper than 1080p, but even 1080p is enough if the cam rotates 360°.
Smart features: AI tracking and highlights sound gimmicky, but they really save time when you’re reviewing footage.
Storage: I prefer SD cards for basic use, but cloud storage is worth it if you want history across multiple days.
Function: Decide if you want a straight camera, a feeder, or a robot that moves and tosses treats.
5 Best Pet Cameras
This is the one I rely on most. It doesn’t just film — it recognizes my pets, tags their activity, and even makes daily highlight reels.
Specs:
Resolution: 1080p HD
Coverage: 360° pan/tilt with auto tracking
Extras: AI summaries and multi-pet recognition (subscription for full features)
Pros:
Saves time with highlight reels
Covers the whole room
Two-way audio works great
Cons:
AI features are behind a paywall
1080p is solid, but 2K would look sharper
I picked this up when I wanted feeding and monitoring in one. It’s reassuring to see and hear my cat as she eats. The alerts also let me know if something’s off, like food getting stuck.
Specs:
Resolution: 1080p, 145° wide angle
Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz)
Storage: SD card or optional cloud plan
Pros:
Reliable meal scheduling
I can check on feeding times live
Motion and sound alerts add peace of mind
Cons:
Video history requires cloud or SD
Camera shuts off on backup battery
This one feels futuristic. It’s a little rolling robot that finds my pets instead of waiting for them to walk by. Mine patrols on its own and recharges itself when the battery runs low.
Specs:
Resolution: 1080p with night vision
Mobility: Auto-dock recharge + roaming patrol
Extras: 2-way audio and alerts
Pros:
I can check any room without buying multiple cams
Great night vision
Kids love driving it too
Cons:
No treat dispenser
Some pets may be startled by movement
When I wanted something simple and affordable, I tried blurams. The 2K resolution is noticeably sharper than most 1080p cams, and the price was easier on the wallet.
Specs:
Resolution: 2K Ultra HD
Coverage: 360° pan/tilt with motion tracking
Storage: microSD (8–128 GB) or cloud
Pros:
Crisp, clear video quality
Works well with Alexa
Priced lower than premium cams
Cons:
Motion tracking isn’t perfect
Cloud plan adds ongoing cost
This one’s just fun. I can roll it around the house, talk to my dog, and toss him a treat when he listens. It feels more interactive than a standard camera.
Specs:
Resolution: 1080p HD
Mobility: App-controlled robot
Extras: Treat dispenser (handles 4–16 mm treats), 2-way audio
Pros:
Keeps pets entertained
Fun to drive remotely
Treat tossing works reliably
Cons:
Limited treat sizes
Might overstimulate anxious pets
FAQ
Are pet cameras worth it?
Yes. For me, the peace of mind alone is worth it. Being able to see and talk to my pets when I’m away helps me catch small issues before they become big problems.
Do pet cameras need Wi-Fi?
Most do. Some run only on 2.4 GHz, but the better ones support both 2.4 and 5 GHz for stronger connections.
Can pet cameras dispense treats?
Yes, a few do. I’ve used the SKYMEE Owl Robot, which tosses treats while you watch. It keeps my dog engaged and rewarded.
What’s better, 1080p or 2K?
2K looks sharper, no question. But a 1080p camera with good coverage (like the PETLIBRO Scout) still gives plenty of detail for daily check-ins.
Do I need cloud storage?
Not always. If you’re happy with live viewing, an SD card may be enough. But cloud storage is useful if you want to review the last several days or share clips easily.
