Pet bowls and fountains: which one to choose?
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Bowls & fountains: which one to choose for your dog or cat?
Hydration, cleanliness of the feeding area, posture… The choice of a food bowl or fountain influences your pet's comfort and health. This guide offers a clear comparison (materials, uses, sizes), practical information, and maintenance tips.
Summary
- Materials: stainless steel, plastic, ceramic… which to choose?
- Types of bowls: standard, slow-feeder, elevated, splash-proof
- Fountains: advantages, filter, maintenance
- Choosing the right size and capacity
- Create a clean & safe dining area
- Common mistakes to avoid
- FAQ
1) Materials: stainless steel, plastic, ceramic…
| Material | Benefits | Points to consider | Ideal if… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Hygienic, lightweight, very sturdy, does not retain odors. Compatible with engraving/personalization . | Can slip without an anti-slip ring; makes noise if placed bare. | Are you looking for a durable, personalized pet bowl ? |
| Ceramic | Stability (weight), decorative look, easy to wash. | Breakable; be careful on hard floors. | Restless dog: mass limits tipping. |
| High-quality plastic | Lightweight, economical, various shapes (anti-gulping). | Scratches more easily, should be replaced as soon as it shows signs of wear. | Budget-friendly solutions or complex shapes. |
Pro tip: pair the bowl with an absorbent diatomaceous earth mat for a dry and non-slip floor.
2) Types of bowls: for every need
Standard (water & kibble)
- Versatile , ideal for everyday use.
- Choose a non-slip base or a mat.
Anti-gulping
- Internal reliefs to slow down ingestion (limits regurgitation/flatulence).
- Perfect for dogs that gulp their food; available in sizes XS→XL.
Elevated
- Improves posture (large breeds, older/arthritic dogs).
- Reference height: edges of the bowl approximately at elbow level .
Splash-proof / Overflow-proof
- Caps/rings limit the amount of water splashed; great for enthusiastic drinkers.
- Combine with a diatomaceous earth mat for express drying.
Gravity-fed dispenser (water/kibble)
- Maintains a constant level without electricity.
- Regular maintenance is essential (rinsing & light descaling).
3) Fountains: advantages, filters, maintenance
Fountains encourage the animal to drink more thanks to the moving water and filtration .
- Advantages : fresher water, improved taste/odor, consistent flow.
- Filters : carbon/sponge/resin (depending on model). Replace according to instructions.
- Maintenance : weekly rinsing of the block & the tank; gentle monthly descaling.
Choosing your fountain:
- Capacity : 1.5–3 L for an average dog (more if several animals).
- Silence : prioritize low-noise motors & noise-reducing pads.
- Safety : automatic shut-off if the tank is empty (depending on the model).
See our selection: fountains & accessories .
4) Size & capacity: useful guidelines
| Template (indicative) | Water (bowl/day) | Bowl capacity | Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini/Toy (≤5 kg) | 300–500 ml | 250–500 ml | Small edges, non-slip base. |
| Small (5–10 kg) | 0.5–0.8 L | 500–800 ml | Anti-gulping if ingested quickly. |
| Medium (10–25 kg) | 0.8–1.5 L | 0.8–1.5 L | Elevated = cleaner posture. |
| Large (25–40 kg) | 1.5–2.5 L | 1.5–2.5 L | Heavy/non-slip base. |
| Very tall (40+ kg) | 2.5–3.5 L | 2–3 L | Raised shelf + absorbent mat. |
Reminder: water requirements vary (activity, heat, type of diet). A dog drinks ~ 50–70 ml/kg/day on average.
5) Set up a clean & safe dining area
- Floor : non-slip + absorbent mat .
- Distance : Keep water away from the litter box (cats) and passage areas.
- Height : raised for large/senior dogs.
- Hygiene : water bowl rinsed 1–2 times/day, food bowl washed daily.
6) Common mistakes to avoid
- Bowl too small (wet beard, spills) → increase by one size.
- Maintenance-free fountain : saturated filter = bad taste, animal drinks less.
- Scratched plastic : a breeding ground for bacteria → replace.
- Anti-gulping food is too complex for some dogs → start with “level 1” treats.
FAQ – Bowls & Water Fountains
Stainless steel or ceramic for water?
Both are suitable. Stainless steel is ultra-durable and lightweight; ceramic is stable and quiet. Complete the look with an absorbent mat.
Is a fountain essential?
No, but it often encourages drinking more (useful for cats & dogs who don't drink much).
What height should a raised food bowl be?
At the dog's elbow (standing). Adjust according to actual comfort.
How often should the water be changed?
1–2 times/day minimum; more often in summer.
Anti-gulping cat food?
Yes, there are adapted versions, especially for kibble.