Are you using the correct food bowl for your cat?

Are you using the correct food bowl for your cat?



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Your cat’s food bowl could contribute to his lack of interest in food. Here are five tips.

1. Many food bowls are merely scaled-down versions of dog bowls. The sides are too high for some cats, causing discomfort if their whiskers get bent or squished. Most cats prefer shallow bowls so their whiskers can extend comfortably. A shallow bowl is also a better choice for breeds such as Persians. Because of their faces shape, Persians will be more comfortable if they don’t have to stick their entire head into a deep bowl.

2. Don’t use double bowls. Many cats don’t like their water near the food. It can also create a dislike for the water if bits of food end up in there, causing contamination.

3. What the food bowl is made of is important. If using plastic, make sure there are no scratches because bacteria can hide there. Plastic can also retain food odors. Some cats have allergic reactions to plastic bowls and they develop feline acne on their chins. Stainless steel is a good choice but in some cases, can cause a change in the way food tastes. If choosing ceramic, run your hand over it to make sure it’s smooth so it won’t irritate your cat’s tongue. Glass bowls are a good choice but throw the bowl away if there is a chip because it could injure your cat’s tongue.

4. Wash food and water bowls every day. Make sure there are no traces of dish detergent left because it can burn your cat’s tongue.

5. In a multiple cat home, your cats may object to sharing one bowl. Provide more than one in various locations to prevent resource guarding behavior.

For more specific information refer to the book Think Like a Cat.