Robotic pet options for OTs and therapists
Product details, prices and supplier contacts for OTs, psychologists and behaviour support practitioners recommending a robotic pet to an NDIS participant.
Occupational therapists, psychologists, speech pathologists and behaviour support practitioners are often asked by families whether a robotic pet could help a participant. The NDIS lists allied health advice among the kinds of evidence that can support a low-cost AT purchase, so a short note from you can make the purchase easier to justify.
Products sold in Australia
| Product | Price | Type | Main features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Companion cat | $259 to $300 | Battery powered | Purr, vibration, touch and motion sensors |
| Companion pup | $269 to $315 | Battery powered | Bark-back, heartbeat |
| MetaCat | $349 to $399 | Rechargeable | Voice commands, LED eyes |
| Ortomi Umi | Ask the supplier | Pocket-sized robot | Sold by one retailer as an NDIS calm regulation aid (retailer claim) |
| PARO seal | From $6,500 | Therapy robot | Five types of sensor; above the low-cost AT limit |
Evidence to cite with care
The strongest evidence comes from dementia research in aged care. A cluster randomised trial across 28 Queensland facilities (Moyle and colleagues, 2017) found that on video, residents with the PARO seal showed less agitation than those on usual care and engaged more than residents given a plush toy. A 2025 meta-analysis of 15 trials (Fan and colleagues) found reduced agitation and anxiety, with no effect on cognition, depression or quality of life. We have not found published trials in autism or other disability groups, so a recommendation for those participants rests on your own clinical judgement and a trial period.
What we can arrange
- A quote from a supplier who sells to NDIS participants, sent to you or the family.
- Product specifications for your report.
- A question to the supplier about trial or hire options, which some suppliers offer.
Writing the recommendation
Keep it to one page. Name the need, the plan goal, the product type, safety notes and a review date. Our goal link and recommendation checklist lists 10 points to cover, and the product picks page has current prices against the $1,500 limit.
Therapists supporting clients with intellectual disability can read our page on robotic pets for people with intellectual disability.
Browse our other services or send an enquiry and choose the OT or therapist option.