The bowls we choose to feed our pets in makes a bigger difference in their health than you may think! Even though your pet’s food and water bowls should be washed regularly, they can still harbor dangerous bacteria. Certain materials are better than others for your pet’s bowls.
Avoid Plastic Bowls at All Costs!
Plastic bowls are one of the least suitable options for your pet's food and water. Plastic is a porous material, meaning it has small holes that allow bacteria to accumulate over time, even with regular washing. This bacterial buildup can irritate your cat’s skin, especially around their mouth, leading to a condition known as "feline acne." Feline acne appears as small blackheads or sores around the mouth and chin, often due to prolonged exposure to bacteria trapped in plastic bowls.
Additionally, many cats have a habit of chewing on their bowls. If a pet ingests small amounts of plastic from chewing, it can lead to the intake of harmful chemicals, which could have a cumulative effect on their health over time.
The Best Choice for Water is Stainless Steel
Recent studies have compared the various materials that pet bowls are made from. These studies have found that stainless steel is the best material to use for pet water bowls.
Unlike plastic, stainless steel is non-porous, meaning it doesn’t harbor bacteria or release harmful chemicals, even when washed at high temperatures. It’s easy to clean, durable, and doesn’t react with food or water, making it the ideal material for your pet’s bowl. By choosing high quality stainless steel, you’re ensuring that your Sphynx drinks from a clean, safe bowl every day, minimizing their exposure to harmful substances that could impact their health over time.
When choosing a stainless steel bowl, you want to look for 18/8 or 304 steel. These numbers will be printed on the bottom of the bowl and indicate that the bowl has been manufactured free of contaminants and are rated for human food grade use.
The Best Choice for Food Bowls
Now, interestingly enough, I don’t recommend a stainless steel bowl for feeding.
When it comes to feeding your cat, the best option might not be a traditional bowl at all! Research shows that many pets, including cats, actually prefer eating from a flat surface rather than a curved bowl.
And that’s why the Mine Pet Platter is a game-changer for feeding because it transforms mealtime into a more natural, engaging experience for your pet.
Unlike conventional bowls, the Mine Pet Platter has a flat surface with indentations, crevices, and curves. These elements are designed to encourage natural behaviors like licking, tracking, and foraging.These features not only make mealtime more entertaining but also provide mental stimulation, keeping your pet engaged and psychologically fulfilled. This makes it an especially great option for curious and active cats like the Sphynx.
Made from cellulose fiber, a sustainable material sourced from trees grown in responsibly managed U.S. forests, the platter is also an eco-friendly choice. It’s BPA-free, food-safe, and dishwasher-safe, making it practical for daily use while also being kind to the environment. At the end of its life, the platter is fully recyclable, adding to its appeal as a sustainable option.
Keep giving your pets the best of the natural life!
