Whisker has launched a new series of AI-powered automatic litter boxes, including the Litter-Robot 5, Litter-Robot 5 Pro, and Litter-Robot Evo, with prices ranging from $599 to $899, emphasizing advanced features like health monitoring and cat recognition.

The Litter-Robot 5 Pro features two night vision cameras—one for facial recognition and another for observing the litter bed—to enhance activity tracking and odor control, and can differentiate between urine and feces.

The new lineup includes the PetTag RFID tracker and Whisker+ membership, aiming to improve pet care through better visibility, behavioral insights, and personalized tracking.

Pre-orders are now open with shipments starting November 3, and Whisker plans to bundle accessories like filters and liners to encourage recurring revenue, despite concerns over high costs and privacy issues related to facial recognition data.

The new models are designed to support up to five cats, with increased capacity and features like remote connectivity, activity monitoring, and data tracking via the Whisker app, with international availability expected in 2026.

Compatibility issues exist with older accessories such as the Litter Hopper, which is expected to have an upgraded version soon, as the new series is not backward-compatible.

Whisker CEO Jacob Zuppke highlighted that this product launch is a step toward building a comprehensive pet care system that leverages data and design to improve outcomes for pets and owners.

The launch reflects broader IoT trends in pet care, where data-driven insights benefit veterinarians and owners, with facial recognition technology marking a shift from novelty gadgets to essential health monitoring tools.

The existing Litter-Robot 4 remains popular for its reliable app-based scheduling and odor management, serving as a cost-effective alternative to the newer models.

Whisker’s dominance in pet tech is underscored by over a million units sold, putting pressure on competitors like PetSafe and LitterMaid to develop similar AI-enabled connected devices.

The new PetTag RFID tracker, priced at $29, is water-resistant and compatible with most collars, featuring a LostPet function to help reunite lost animals with their owners.

Enhanced odor control is achieved through targeted ventilation and a WasteID system that adjusts cleaning cycles based on waste type, reducing maintenance to up to 10 days for a single cat, with a sleek design and LCD display for easier operation.

All models include hardware redesigns with a new LCD control panel, larger waste bins, and improved odor management; the Pro model also features an RFID pet tag for identification.