Whisker launches $899 AI litter box that recognizes cats

Whisker has unveiled the Litter-Robot 5 Pro, a $899 self-cleaning litter box equipped with AI-powered facial recognition cameras to identify cats and monitor their bathroom habits. The premium model introduces an optional $7.99 monthly subscription service called Whisker Plus that tracks pet behavior patterns over time, potentially helping owners detect health issues early through detailed waste analysis.

What you should know: The Litter-Robot 5 Pro represents a significant upgrade from previous models, featuring dual night vision cameras and enhanced waste detection capabilities.

• One forward-facing camera uses facial recognition to identify cats, while an interior camera monitors the litter bed and waste patterns.
• The system can differentiate between pee and poop, dispatching solid waste faster for improved odor control.
• It accommodates up to five cats, one more than the previous Litter-Robot 4 model.

The product lineup: Whisker announced three new models with varying features and price points, all available for preorder with November 3rd shipping.

• The camera-equipped Litter-Robot 5 Pro costs $899 and includes facial recognition capabilities.
• The standard Litter-Robot 5 without cameras is priced at $799.
• The budget-friendly Litter-Robot Evo costs $599, accommodates two cats, and lacks premium features like automatic night lights.

How the AI works: The facial recognition system combines with optional RFID tags to accurately identify pets and track individual behavior patterns.

• The Whisker PetTag ($29) uses RFID technology—radio frequency identification that works like a digital name tag—to help distinguish between similar-looking cats.
• Tags also function as digital IDs with QR codes for lost pet recovery.
• All models feature new LCD control panels, reducing reliance on app notifications or LED light interpretations.

The subscription angle: Whisker Plus transforms basic activity tracking into comprehensive health monitoring through data analysis and video storage.

• The $7.99 monthly (or $79.99 annual) service provides detailed analysis of data trends to detect behavioral changes.
• Subscribers can view and save video footage of their cats’ bathroom activities.
• Basic app features like remote cycling, usage alerts, and weight tracking remain free.

Why this matters: The integration of facial recognition into pet care products reflects the growing sophistication of consumer AI applications, moving beyond simple automation to behavioral analysis that could genuinely impact pet health outcomes.