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Best Cat Bowls

Pet Admin
by Pet Admin
Published:  December 27th, 2018

If they could be bothered to answer our question, felines would probably ask for finest china and silverware when it comes to what they would like to eat out of. Cats are notoriously picky eaters with refined tastes, so it shouldn’t surprise you to learn that not all cat bowls will be up to your feline’s high standards. To help you choose something that will please your pet (and your budget too), PetGuide.com has analyzed dozens of cat bowls and dishes to find the best ones for your pampered pet. Whether you’ve just got a kitten, or you want to switch things up for your adult cat, we’ve got you covered. Read more about cat-friendly materials, advice for bowls for obese cats, and much, much more.

Best Cat Bowls

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UPSKY Double Cat Bowls

    • Made of high-quality stainless steel with a unique resin bottom.
    • No-spill construction.

SHU UFANRO Cat Bowls

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    • Made from BPA free food-grade melamine, non-toxic, non-allergic, strong.

Made from BPA free food-grade melamine, non-toxic, non-allergic, strong.

    • Shallow cat bowl allows your cat to get the food easily, which prevents whisker fatigue and keeps his/her face clean.

Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser

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    • Made of finely polished antibacterial PP resin material, this automatic water bowl is BPA-free, non-toxic and odorless.

Made of finely polished antibacterial PP resin material, this automatic water bowl is BPA-free, non-toxic and odorless.

    • Holds up to 2 liters of water.

CatGuru Premium Whisker Stress Free Cat Food Bowl

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    • Patented shallow form with ripples allows your cat to get the food easily, which prevents whisker fatigue and keeps his/her face clean.

Patented shallow form with ripples allows your cat to get the food easily, which prevents whisker fatigue and keeps his/her face clean.

    • Made from BPA free melamine, non-toxic, non-allergic.

Necoichi Raised Cat Food Bowl

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    • Perfect height for maximum comfort when eating.

Perfect height for maximum comfort when eating.

    • Food stays centered so there is less stress from having to chase food around the bowl.

Considerations When It Comes to Cat Bowls

When it comes to cat bowls, things are a bit more complex than you’d think. After all, popular culture has erroneously taught us that any kitty will be content with a bit of milk in a saucer, so most of beginner cat parents are completely overwhelmed once they learn about countless of options and choices they have when it comes to both food and dishes it’s to be served in. While you won’t have to buy a gold-plated bowl for kibble to keep your pet healthy, there are some important requirements that need to be met- it won’t suffice to just grab any old bowl you first come across.

First and maybe the most important thing you need to consider when it comes to cat bowls is the material they’re made of. The cheapest (and therefore one of the more popular) option is plastic bowls for cats. These type of dishes might be good for your wallet, but they’re certainly not good for your cat. Even if you get a BPA-free plastic bowl for your pet, it won’t change the fact that plastic bowls for pets are a big no-no. Bacteria buildup is common on plastic dishes, as well as the buildup of oils, making these very hard to clean. More importantly, though, plastic bowls for food and water can cause feline acne or black spots on your pet’s chin. To avoid dealing with these issues, always opt for stainless steel or ceramic cat bowls. They might cost a bit more, but they’ll definitely pay off in the long run. Additionally, you might want to consider ditching plastic food storage, too- there are other, healthier options that are worth the cost.

Types of Cat Bowls

Of course, even if you know which materials to steer clear from and which are a good choice, it still leaves you with having to choose one out of dozens of different types and models of cat dishes. Not all cats will be content eating out of a standard kibble bowl, so you need to make sure to include both your pet’s preferences and needs in the final decision. For instance, there are dishes that are designed especially for certain cat breeds, such as the flat-faced Himalayan or Persian cat. Due to their unique anatomy, these pets will benefit from bespoke dishes, usually slightly tilted to accommodate for their short muzzle.

Additionally, if your cat has some health issues, such as being overweight, you might consider options such as automatic feeders or puzzle feeders for cats. Instead of free-feeding your cat and making their health worse by allowing them to eat as much as they want, you could ensure that their meals are doled out in certain times of the day or serving sizes. Automatic feeders, or food dispensers for cats, are also a fantastic option if you work long hours but have to maintain control over your feline’s eating habits.

PetGuide.com’s resources will ensure that you find the best type of feeder for your kitty, whether it’s a simple ceramic bowl, raised feeder, fully automatic feeder with a timer, or anything else in between. In addition to choosing the right bowls or feeders for your picky pet, you might want to consider getting a feeding mat. Regardless of your cat’s food of preference, it’s highly likely that they’ll make a mess around their dish whenever they eat. Cleaning wet food stains or kibble crumbles will be infinitely easier if all you have to do is shake out the mat underneath the bowls, or run it under water for a few seconds.

Cat Water Bowls

As for the water bowls, the same rules apply as they do for the dishes you’d choose for your cat’s food. However, there is an important thing to note when it comes to cat water dishes, or, to be more precise, their preferences when it comes to water in general. Cats don’t like still water, and relying on a bowl with stagnant water to keep your feline hydrated will usually be a fruitless effort.

Unless you have a special kitty, you’ve probably noticed that they avoid water that’s been in the bowl for hours and instead favor licking drops from the faucet. It’s not because cats are weirdos, but rather because they prefer their water to be fresh and moving. Thankfully, with a water fountain for cats, you can get your pet to drink up! PetGuide.com’s experts explain the mysteries of feline behavior, including their odd water drinking habits, so you won’t have to wonder about your cat’s quirks anymore. In addition, we’ve reviewed various options when it comes to cat fountains and water bowls, ensuring your pet gets the very best.

When it comes to feline nutrition, you’ll find all the information you need right here at PetGuide.com. From detailed educational content that will help you pick out the best food for your cat, to comprehensive buying guides that ensure the bowls you get for your pet won’t be causing any health issues, PetGuide,com is the place to be if you’re a proud cat parent and want only the best for your pampered kitty.

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Top 10 Best Cats for Mousing

Got a mouse in the house? Forget the mouse trap – a cat is your best pest buster. Here are the top 10 best cats for mousing. If you’ve ever seen a domestic cat hunt for food, you might wonder how something so cute could be so vicious. And did you know that some breeds even have a history of helping people with rodent control? It’s true! Your little cat might be snuggly with you, but she’s a natural born predator, and one of her preferred prey is the mouse. So, for natural pest control, it’s tough to beat a frisky feline who loves to hunt. Some feline breeds are known for their strong motivation to hunt. But it’s important to keep in mind that every cat is one-of-a-kind, so two kitties might have different interests when it comes to hunting, even if they’re the same breed. In other words, just because you get a cat that has a reputation for being a great mouse hunter doesn’t necessarily mean she’ll actually do it. Either way, though, your kitty is sure to quickly become your new buddy. What are some of the best cat breeds for mousing? Here’s a list of 10, in no particular order. Siberian

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A Small Cat Family Was Found Living in the Ceiling of a Restaurant

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Study Finds Link Between Having a Dog and Girls' Physical Activity

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Can Stress or Anxiety Cause Diarrhea in Dogs?

Dogs are no strangers to stress and anxiety. While most pooches are the picture of the tail-wagging, carefree dog whose only stress is that they have to wait for their next meal, some have it a bit more ruff. Anxiety in dogs can vary from mild to severe, triggered by specific and occasional stressors (such as  fireworks, for example) or present on a daily level. Naturally, your pet’s state of mind has a big impact on their overall health, so it doesn’t surprise that dogs with anxiety often have tummy issues. But does that mean that a stressful situation or anxiety can directly cause diarrhea in dogs? Having in mind that, in a way, your pet’s mental health is connected to their digestion, it sounds highly probable.How Stress and Anxiety Can Cause DiarrheaSo how does it work? The connection between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of dogs. When dogs experience stress or anxiety, it can trigger a cascade of physiological responses, including changes in gut motility, secretion of digestive enzymes, and alterations in the composition of gut microbiota. These disruptions can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.When stress or anxiety takes hold, it's not just a matter of frazzled nerves. These emotional states can set off a domino effect within your dog's digestive system. Rather than a simple list of effects, think of it as a cascade of events:Picture your dog feeling anxious during a  thunderstorm or while being left alone. This emotional response triggers a surge of adrenaline, part of the body's "fight or flight" response. Blood flow shifts away from the digestive organs and toward the muscles, heart, and lungs, hastening gut motility.Meanwhile, the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome, is disrupted by stress. This dysbiosis can lead to inflammation, changes in gut permeability, and an upset stomach.Furthermore, chronic stress weakens the immune system, leaving your dog more susceptible to infections and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.Beyond these physiological effects, stress-related behaviors like excessive chewing,  licking, or ingesting non-food items can irritate the digestive tract, exacerbating diarrhea.How To Deal With Stress-Related Diarrhea in DogsIf your dog is experiencing stress-related diarrhea, there are several things you can do to alleviate their discomfort and ensure a speedier recovery.Before anything else, it’s essential to identify and address stressors. Determine the underlying causes of your dog's stress or anxiety and take steps to minimize or eliminate them where possible. This may involve providing a calm, predictable environment, addressing separation anxiety, or using  desensitization techniques for noise phobias.Next, support their digestion with a mild, nurturing diet and the right supplements. Your pet’s tummy is upset, so you shouldn’t neglect the importance of rebalancing their gut biome and helping their digestion. Instead of their usual kibble, offer them a bit of broth, some cooked rice, or boiled chicken breast. Additionally, a digestive supplement such as  Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder can work wonders in managing symptoms of diarrhea. With a combination of special probiotics and antioxidants, this powdered supplement will quickly restore your pet’s GI tract and help their stool get back to its normal consistency. And since it’s packed with live microorganisms to benefit beneficial intestinal microflora, it can also help treat excessive gas and other digestion-related troubles, so it’s good to keep stocked in your pet’s first aid kit, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. 

FDA Approves New Treatment for Anxiety and Fear in Cats

It’s no secret that most cats get really stressed out when they have to leave the house, especially for a trip to the veterinarian. And the anxiety and fear that your pet experiences can certainly affect you as a pet parent as well, making you feel awful about having to put your cat through such a scary experience.The good news is there are things you can try to help reduce the stress your kitty feels, and one of the latest solutions is a new treatment recently approved by the FDA.Bonqat for CatsIn November 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pregabalin, also known as Bonqat, for cats.The oral solution is not a sedative; instead, it affects the neurotransmitters that are involved in acute anxiety and fear. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the stress experienced by cats who are being transported for any reason, and it can be helpful for those who get frightened when they go to the vet.To determine if this medicine would be effective, cats were given either a placebo or Bonqat before being transported by car and examined by a veterinarian (the cats had a history of being fearful and/or anxious under those circumstances). The results? While roughly one-third of the kitties who got the placebo had a positive response, just over half of those given the medicine did better while being transported and examined. Also, over the course of two examinations, 77% of the kitties who took Bonqat had less fear and anxiety, while 46% of those given the placebo exhibited an improvement in their fear and anxiety levels.Discuss Bonqat with Your VeterinarianYou can only get Bonqat with a prescription from your veterinarian, so discuss its pros and cons to determine if this medicine would be right for your cat based on factors like age and medical conditions. And bear in mind that side effects, such as ataxia, vomiting, and lethargy, might occur with Bonqat.To reap the benefits of Bonqat, you simply give it to your cat about 1.5 hours prior to transporting them or taking them to the vet. This medicine is a liquid, and it can be given to your pet with a bit of food.Also, there are some precautions that need to be taken while administering this medicine to your cat. For example, it shouldn’t make contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. So, in addition to talking to your vet about how to use it correctly to ensure your cat gets the best results, you also want to be well-informed about how to handle this medicine safely.For more information about Bonqat and how it works, click here.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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How Much Exercise Does My Cat Need?

Cats are often known for their laidback and aloof personalities, lounging around the house like true couch potatoes. But just like us, our kitties need regular exercise to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. That’s where your job as a cat parent comes in! In this article, we will explore the importance of exercise for your cat, including how much exercise they need, the benefits of being active, and fun ways to include more physical activity in your cat’s daily routine. Whether you have an energetic young kitten or a calm senior cat, understanding their exercise needs can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. How Much Playtime Does an Indoor Cat Need? When choosing the perfect pet for your family, you have likely heard about how laid back and easy to care for cats can be. After all, they just lounge around the house all day. Right? The truth is that your cat needs daily activity to stay healthy and in shape. The exact amount of exercise your cat needs will depend on several factors, including their age, breed, lifestyle, and individual health needs. For example, a cat that is obese and needs to lose weight to improve their health may need more physical activity than a cat that is already of a healthy weight. That being said, the general rule of thumb is that a healthy adult cat should be engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of active playtime every day, split into shorter 10 or 15-minute play sessions. If you are unsure about your cat’s specific needs, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to provide insight into how exercise and playtime can improve or help to maintain your cat’s quality of life at this stage and as they continue to age. How Do I Know My Cat is Getting Enough Exercise? There are several behavioral signs that a cat isn’t getting enough exercise that you can watch out for. Cats that don’t engage in regular physical activity often suffer from boredom, depression, or anxiety. While our cats obviously can’t speak to tell us this, we can pay attention to their body language and behavior to catch any signs of trouble. Some key signs to watch out for include: Destructive Behavior: One of the first signs people notice when a cat is bored is that they start to exhibit bad habits and destructive behavior. This could include scratching your furniture, tearing apart the toilet paper, ripping curtains or screens, or stealing items they know they shouldn’t. It’s like a young child. They are bored and looking for ways to keep themselves entertained. Excessive Vocalization: Do you have a naturally vocal cat? If so, they may be trying to tell you that something’s wrong verbally. Some cats, when bored, will cry out for attention. This is a behavior we see in our two every time their morning playtime is even 5 minutes late. Change of Appetite: If they are feeling anxious or highly stressed, some cats will stop eating. Others, like humans, will turn to food during times of boredom. Any unexplained changes to your cat’s diet should be considered a sign of trouble – whether it’s a need for more exercise or something health-related.Over-Grooming: Cats are masters of self-grooming, but if a cat is stressed, anxious, or bored, they may take their grooming too far. This can often lead to the development of bald patches or skin irritation. Aggression or Irritation: Some cats become irritable or upset when experiencing stress and anxiety. This could result in uncharacteristic biting or scratching directed towards you, other family members, or other pets in the home. Loss of Energy or Lethargy: This may come as a surprise as most people will associate not enough exercise with having pent-up energy just begging to come out. However, a cat that isn’t getting enough physical activity can become depressed, which may present as being lazy, uninterested, or more aloof than usual. Another important sign to watch out for is unexplained weight gain. Just as humans will gain weight if they aren’t getting enough exercise, so will your cat. Sure, they likely aren’t concerned with “how they look” each morning – but obesity is a growing problem in the United States and can introduce serious health consequences!

Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

Animal Shelter Receives Donations in Memory of Jon Stewart’s Dog

Comedian Jon Stewart returned to “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central in February, and viewers have been tuning in to watch him talk about current events. Stewart hosts every Monday night, serving up news in a hilarious way. But on February 26, he closed the show on a somber note, spending a few minutes talking about his dog, Dipper.Jon Stewart Remembers His Extraordinary DogStewart shared a touching story of how he met and came to adopt Dipper. He explained that, 12 or 13 years ago, his young children wanted to raise money for Animal Haven, a no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in New York City. To fundraise, his family baked cupcakes and set up an area outside of the shelter to sell them.  He went on to say that the shelter brought out a pit bull who was about 1 year old. At this point, Stewart started to break down, clearly getting emotional as he explained that the dog had been hit by a car in Brooklyn and had lost one of his legs as a result.Through tears, Stewart said his family left the shelter after raising some much-needed funds for a wonderful organization that does great work. But they also left with the very special pit bull who had stolen their hearts and who was, as Stewart described him, the best boy. Dipper even used to go to the studio with Stewart, so he met the famous people who were guests on the show.Then, Stewart shared the devastating news that Dipper had passed away just the day before. He ended with a wish for everyone to find an amazing dog they could love. And then, for the show’s “Moment of Zen,” they played an adorable video of Dipper playing in the snow.You can watch the segment here:

Check Out Giant Dogs On the Free 2024 Calendar of the Portland USACE

Who knew that calendars featuring gigantic cats could be such a hit! Last year, the Pacific Northwest-based U.S. military personnel issued their own calendars which featured enormous kitties that oversaw construction projects making a seemingly ordinary calendar - a ton of fun. Needless to say, their hilarious (and completely free) calendar went viral, so they wanted to repeat last year’s success. This year, however, the Portland branch of the US Army Corps of Engineers, which is based in Oregon, decided to “branch out”, and their new yearly 2024 calendar will feature gigantic doggos as well. This was a logical follow-up to their viral social media campaign of the previous year, when kittens stole the show. The personnel of this military branch handles tough civil works in the whole of Oregon and southwestern Washington, so a bit of lighthearted humor really goes a long way for them. Their staff got the idea of superimposing photos of cats and dogs into quality landscape photos of the most important public infrastructure projects that the teams were involved with. The idea was an instant hit. And now, their 2024 calendars in both cat and dog editions can be freely downloaded in a PDF format, allowing quick and easy printing. You can find the dog calendar here and the cat calendar here.“This product was created to tell the story of our district and what we do in a way that’s actually enjoyable for the average member of the public,” Portland district spokesman Chris Gaylord said. Mr. Gaylord further said that the whole project was their effort to portray an otherwise rough and industrial work in a more entertaining light. And it is also a way for the workers to get some steam off as well. After all, they are busy throughout the year, operating more than 700 dams and 12,000 miles of inland waterways. “It was really so inspiring to see how much joy this little product brought to people all over the world,” Gaylord said, after their first calendar “won over the internet”, getting an incredible 530,000 downloads on their website. To make matters even more memorable, the photos of the pets are from the employees themselves! Gaylord received almost 750 photos from 150 workers. Choosing just a few to include in the calendar was no easy task. But to make everyone satisfied, a page at the end of the calendar includes a grid with most of the pets that did not make it onto the big pages. What do you think – which pooch of the month is your fave?

What Is Dog Folliculitis and How to Treat It?

Folliculitis in dogs is a disease which causes infection or inflammation of hair follicles. It is one of the more common skin diseases amongst dogs and is caused by bacteria, fungal infections, skin irritations, or  parasites. What is more, it can affect dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds, so if it happens to your four-legged friend unexpectedly, it is best to know how to treat this pesky skin issue.What Is Dog Folliculitis?The symptoms and causes of dog folliculitis can vary. In most cases, the healthy follicle is “compromised”, which leads to the accumulation of bacteria that are otherwise normally found on your pet’s skin. The end result is great discomfort for your dog, and it should be treated as quickly as possible. But how will you know that it is dog folliculitis and not some other health issue? Well, one of the foremost symptoms to look out for is red and inflamed skin. This condition causes excessive redness and even swelling in certain areas of the skin. This should be a telltale sign that something is amiss. Together with this, you could notice pimples, also known as pustules. They are small raised bumps and often contain pus. Of course, your dog will show signs of discomfort as well. They will try to itch and  lick the affected areas, in hopes of relieving the discomfort and making themselves more comfortable. This can all be accompanied by hair loss, mostly in the directly affected areas of your dog’s coat and skin. Ultimately, in the most severe cases, open sores, scabs, and skin lesions may appear. At this point, veterinary care is needed immediately.If you suspect your dog has folliculitis, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can perform diagnostic tests, such as skin scrapings or cultures, to identify the specific cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. It is crucial that you do not attempt any solution on your own. Self-diagnosis and do-it-yourself treatment can lead to complications or ineffective outcomes, so professional guidance is essential. Based on the evaluation, your vet can introduce a number of treatments and solutions – here’s what to expect.How Is Dog Folliculitis Treated?Topical antibiotics and antifungal creams are the most common treatment options. They are applied directly to the affected areas and are most efficient in early and moderate cases of dog folliculitis. Of course, if the case with your dog is more serious, your vet could propose an oral treatment. This consists of special medications that work to eliminate the infection at the core. Another possible solution is using special medicated shampoos that work to heal the follicles through gentle washing. 

Are You A Hugger? Some Dogs Prefer You Back Off!

When it comes to snuggling your pet, the language of love can differ.

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