9902.16.28 - Feeders, each with a self-contained electric motor powered by an external adapter that plugs into a wall socket or electrical outlet or uses batteries, such devices which can be programmed to disperse various quantities of food at pre-set times, designed for domestic use by dogs and cats (provided for in subheading 8509.80.50)

This HTS category, 9902.16.28, specifically addresses automated pet feeders designed for domestic dogs and cats. These devices are characterized by their ability to be programmed for timed food dispersal in varying quantities. Crucially, they feature a self-contained electric motor and are powered either by an external adapter that connects to a standard wall socket or by batteries. The classification within this chapter signifies a temporary legislative provision or modification related to trade agreements or agricultural adjustments, indicating that these particular goods are subject to special import considerations beyond standard tariff classifications.

While this category sits within Chapter 99, which encompasses temporary legislation and special provisions, its direct relevance for classification is to identify goods that would otherwise fall under Chapter 85, specifically subheading 8509.80.50, pertaining to other domestic electrical appliances. The "siblings" within Chapter 99 are diverse, often relating to different types of temporary import restrictions or modifications across a wide range of goods, from agricultural products to machinery. Therefore, 9902.16.28's distinctiveness lies in its precise targeting of automated pet feeding devices, setting them apart from broader categories of machinery or other domestic electrical appliances not possessing these specific programmatic and power source characteristics.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS database, there are no further subcategories. Classification under 9902.16.28 is final for items meeting all the specified criteria: programmed food dispersal, use with dogs and cats, domestic application, and their defined electrical power sources (external adapter or batteries). This ensures that these particular pet feeders are consistently identified for the purpose of any temporary trade or agricultural-related import provisions that are in effect.