There are 2 places that a pet would be able to steal extra food from: the top of the food bin and the opening between the food bowl and food bin. The food bin lid is securely held in place by a latch that needs to be pinched to open and also doubles in securing the food bin to the base of the feeder. If a pet tries to go through the food bowl to steal extra kibble from the bin the feeder senses this and closes the door to prevent food stealing.