Have you ever wondered what the best pet food/water bowls are made of? Did you know that there are important differences? If not, just read on to find out how your choices can benefit the dogs and cats in your life.

Plastic Pet Feeding Bowls

This may come as a surprise but plastic is certainly not the best. Some pets are allergic to it and anything made from that material can cause a health episode. 

However, allergic or not, plastic is likely to break down over time causing harmful chemicals—Bisphenal A (BPA) and Phthalates— to seep into the food or water in a plastic bowl. Some researchers have even found traces of lead.

GETTING PERSONAL

Not too long ago I cared for a family of four cats. One of the trio of white ones suffered from skin allergies caused by anything made from plastic. Yes, anything. Plastic bags, plastic containers, you name it. The cat’s guardians had to make sure it never ever came into contact with items like these. 

When the family was away, kitty care was my responsibility and to keep the felines out of harm’s way, I always made sure to keep my work tote bag zipped shut. When I brought in the newspaper, I removed the plastic lining and immediately threw it away into the lidded bin. Then there were times I might need something stored in a plastic container that was kept in a closet. I had to make sure I never left it out on the kitchen counter unattended, or forgot to put it back in its place after use.

Glass Pet Feeding Bowls

This material is stable and can be sterilized but there is always the possibility of breakage. If you do choose glass, avoid products made in developing countries that often contain lead.

Ceramic Pet Feeding Bowls

Generally this is a reliable material. Just make sure the label says “lead-free.” The reason being that the colors used in glazed items produced in some countries could contain lead and cadmium which are toxic.

Stainless Steel – The Best Pet Eating/Drinking Bowls

This is definitely the preferred material of choice since it doesn’t react to foods and liquids. It is strong, and can be sterilized. Nevertheless, if the bowls were to become severely scratched or damaged, metals could seep out over a long period of time.

To Sum Up

As you can see, it really does matter what you serve food and water in. Most importantly, check out the country of origin and almost certainly stay away from plastic. Despite this, you still have a number of good options available. Choose the best pet food/water bowls for your companion animals. Not just any bowls. And, finally, be the best pet parent possible.

Together, let’s keep our precious pets healthy, happy and safe!  

For more must-read articles on drinking water, check these out.

The importance of water: https://petpeevesunmasked.com/well-hydrated-pets-stay-healthier

Water for pets, and water for us: https://petpeevesunmasked.com/do-pets-share-your-drinking-water/