Bowls & Fountains
Stainless steel and ceramic bowls, slow feeders and drinking fountains that help your cat drink more and eat comfortably.
Bowls look like a simple purchase, but they directly affect how much your cat eats and, above all, how much it drinks. Cats are naturally low drinkers, and poor water intake is a significant risk factor for urinary problems, so choosing the right bowl is about health as much as comfort.
Material and shape
- **Stainless steel:** hygienic, unbreakable and dishwasher-safe; the safest choice for most homes.
- **Ceramic:** heavy enough not to slide or tip; replace it if the glaze cracks.
- **Plastic:** cheap, but it scratches over time, can harbour bacteria and is linked to feline chin acne in some cats.
Wide, shallow bowls stop whiskers brushing against the sides. This “whisker fatigue” is why some cats eat from the middle of the bowl and leave food round the edges. For cats that bolt their food and then bring it back up, slow feeders or puzzle feeders reduce eating speed and add mental stimulation. Slightly raised bowls are more comfortable for older cats and those with stiff joints.
Water fountains encourage cats that prefer moving water to drink more often. Filtered models keep water fresh; replace the filter as the manufacturer recommends, typically every 2–4 weeks, and clean the pump regularly. Placing water away from both the food bowl and the litter tray also makes cats more inclined to drink.
Common questions about Bowls & Fountains
Does my cat really need a water fountain?
It is not essential, but it is very helpful for cats that drink little, eat mostly dry food or have a history of urinary issues. Moving water encourages many cats to drink more often.
Which bowl material is most hygienic?
Stainless steel and well-glazed ceramic are the most hygienic options. Plastic bowls can harbour bacteria as they scratch, so replace them regularly if you use them.
How often should bowls be washed?
Wash wet food bowls after every meal and dry food and water bowls at least once a day. Strip and clean a fountain weekly and change the filter on schedule.