Stop first: Keep cats away and unplug the unit before removing the globe or inspecting the waste opening. Never tape, bridge, bend, or bypass a pinch or presence sensor.
A pinch alert is a safety stop, not an inconvenience to defeat. Record the exact light and app status first, then look for material caught in the waste path and confirm that every removable part is seated correctly. If the alert returns with a clean, correctly assembled unit, stop and involve Whisker.
Before taking it apart
Three quick checks
- Record the light pattern and exact app message before resetting.
- Keep pets away, unplug the unit, and check whether a liner or clump protrudes into the waste opening.
- Do not force the globe or defeat the sensor to finish a cycle.
Fixes in order
Test after each step. Stop as soon as automatic cycling returns; changing several things at once makes the cause harder to identify.
- 1
Preserve the fault information
Take a photo or screenshot of the light pattern and app message. Note whether the alert appeared at startup, during rotation, or as waste passed into the drawer.
Why this matters: Different motion and safety states can look similar after a reset.
What success looks like: You have the exact status and point in the cycle for support if the fault returns.
- 2
Power down and remove access
Turn the unit off, unplug it, and keep cats out of the room. Wait for all movement to stop before opening the bonnet or removing the globe according to the manual.
Why this matters: The pinch area is adjacent to the waste path and moving assembly.
What success looks like: The unit is de-energized and stable before inspection.
- 3
Clear only visible loose material
Remove loose litter, clumps, liner material, or another object from the waste opening and drawer area. Use the cleaning method specified by Whisker; do not soak or spray liquid into the base.
Why this matters: A protruding bag or compacted waste can obstruct the protected area.
What success looks like: The path is visibly clear, dry, and free of material that could be pinched.
- 4
Reseat the drawer, globe, and bonnet
Fit the drawer liner below the rim, slide the drawer fully in, and reinstall the globe and bonnet in the documented orientation. Do not force a latch or component.
Why this matters: Misalignment can create resistance or prevent a safety-related part from reading normally.
What success looks like: All parts sit flush and move only as intended by the manual.
- 5
Run one empty supervised cycle
Reconnect power with pets kept away, allow startup to finish, and run one manual cycle. Stand ready to turn the unit off if it strains, grinds, or repeats the alert.
Why this matters: One controlled test distinguishes a cleared obstruction from a persistent fault.
What success looks like: The globe completes a cycle and returns home with no safety alert.
- 6
Stop after a repeated pinch alert
If the alert returns on a clear, dry, correctly assembled unit, unplug it and contact Whisker. Do not open the base or alter sensor hardware.
Why this matters: A recurring safety stop can require manufacturer diagnosis or replacement parts.
What success looks like: Support receives the serial number, fault evidence, and steps already completed.
What the result means
| What you observe | Likely direction | Next move |
|---|---|---|
| Alert clears after removing a protruding liner | Liner interfered with the waste path | Refit below the rim and watch the next several cycles. |
| Alert appears at the same point in each rotation | Repeatable obstruction, alignment, or sensor fault | Stop testing and send a video and status to support. |
| Grinding or straining accompanies the alert | Mechanical resistance rather than a simple loose clump | Turn off immediately; do not force the globe. |
| Alert returns on startup before rotation | Persistent assembly or safety-circuit state | Confirm assembly once, then contact support. |
When to contact support
Contact Whisker after one careful cleaning and reseating attempt if the pinch alert repeats. Stop sooner for damaged parts, liquid in the base, abnormal heat, odor, or sound.
- Serial number and warranty status
- Photo of the light bar and app error
- When in the cycle the alert occurs
- Photo of drawer liner and waste opening
- Whether one empty supervised cycle completed
FAQ
Common questions
Can I disable the pinch sensor?
No. It is a safety protection. Do not bypass, bridge, tape, or modify it.
Can a waste-bag liner cause the alert?
A liner protruding into the waste path can interfere with operation. Fit it exactly as the current instructions show.
Should I lubricate the mechanism?
Do not apply lubricant unless Whisker explicitly instructs it for the exact part. Lubricant can attract litter or damage materials and sensors.
Sources and scope
Use the live Whisker article for the exact light pattern and hardware revision. This guide never recommends bypassing a safety device.
Need to correct this guide?
Send a source or a safer sequence and we will review it.