Quick answer: Motion detection triggers a recording clip and phone notification when movement is detected — letting you check on your pet without watching a live feed all day.
The camera detects pixel changes in the video feed. When movement exceeds the sensitivity threshold, it records a clip (usually 15-30 seconds) and sends a push notification. Most apps maintain a timeline of motion events so you can review your pet's activity without watching continuous footage.
Sensitivity set too high triggers alerts from shadows, fans, or sunlight shifting. Draw specific alert zones in the app — motion outside those zones is ignored. Focus zones on your pet's main activity areas: the couch, the food bowl, the entry door.
Premium cameras use AI to distinguish between pets, people, and general motion. This dramatically reduces false alerts in shared living spaces. If you live with other people or have multiple pets, AI detection is worth the price premium for usable notifications.
Motion detection is most useful when configured with specific alert zones and medium sensitivity. Spend 10 minutes tuning it after setup and you'll get much more useful notifications.