Do you have a cat? If so, you may have wondered if elevated cat bowls are a good idea. After all, cats like to eat and drink from low surfaces, right? Well, it turns out that elevated cat bowls may be more helpful than you think! We will discuss the benefits of elevated cat bowls and why you may want to consider using them for your feline friend.
What Are Elevated Cat Bowls, Anyway?
There are no wrong questions here! Elevated cat bowls are simply bowls that are raised off the ground. They typically have a stand or pedestal that elevates them to a comfortable height for your cat to eat and drink from. Many people believe that elevated cat bowls are more natural and comfortable for cats, as they do not have to bend down low to eat and drink. Others think cats prefer to eat and drink off the low ground. We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of elevated bowls next.
Benefits of Elevated Cat Bowls
There are several perceived benefits of using elevated cat bowls for your cat, including joint health, cleanliness, and freshness.
Joint Health
One benefit is that it can help to reduce stress on your cat’s joints. If your cat has arthritis or other joint issues, eating from a bowl that is too low can be painful. By using an elevated bowl, you can help your cat to eat without pain.
Freshness
Another benefit of elevated cat bowls is that they can help to keep your cat’s food clean and fresh. When food is left in a bowl on the ground, it is more likely to get dirty or stale. However, when food is kept in an elevated bowl, it is less likely to come into contact with dirt and dust. This means that your cat’s food will be cleaner and fresher, which can help to improve their overall health.
Cleanliness
Elevated cat bowls can also help to keep your cat’s whiskers clean. When cats eat from a bowl on the ground, their whiskers often touch the bowl and become dirty. However, when they eat from an elevated bowl, their whiskers are less likely to come into contact with the bowl. This means that your cat’s whiskers will be cleaner and they will be less likely to develop an irritation.
Negatives of Using an Elevated Cat Bowl
There are a few negatives to using an elevated cat bowl, as well.
One negative is that they can be more expensive than traditional cat bowls. If you are on a budget, you may want to stick with traditional cat bowls. Another downside of elevated cat bowls is that they can be difficult to clean. When food and water get spilled, it can be hard to reach the bowl to clean it properly. This can lead to bacteria buildup, which can be harmful to your cat.
Finally, some cats simply do not like elevated cat bowls. If your cat is resistant to change or does not like new things, they may not take well to an elevated bowl. In this case, it may be best to stick with a traditional bowl.
Do Elevated Bowls Help with Any Health Problems?
There is some evidence that elevated cat bowls can help with certain health problems. One study found that cats who ate from elevated bowls had a lower risk of developing obesity than those who ate from traditional bowls. The study also found that cats who ate from elevated bowls had better joint health and were less likely to develop arthritis.
Another study found that using an elevated bowl can help to reduce stress on your cat’s joints. This is especially beneficial for cats with arthritis or other joint issues. By using an elevated bowl, you can help your cat to eat without pain.
Finally, a third study found that cats who drank from an elevated water bowl had a lower risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). This is because when water is kept in a bowl on the ground, it is more likely to come into contact with bacteria. However, when water is kept in an elevated bowl, it is less likely to come into contact with bacteria. This means that your cat’s water will be cleaner and fresher, which can help to reduce their risk of developing a UTI.
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting The Best Elevated Cat Bowl
If you are interested in purchasing an elevated cat bowl, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider your budget. Elevated bowls can be more expensive than traditional bowls, so be sure to shop around and compare prices.
Second, consider the size of your cat. You will want to choose a bowl that is large enough for your cat to comfortably eat and drink from.
Finally, consider the material of the bowl. Some elevated bowls are made of plastic or ceramic, while others are made of stainless steel. Stainless steel bowls are typically more durable and easier to clean, but they can be more expensive. Plastic or ceramic bowls are less expensive but may not last as long or be as easy to clean.
FAQs: Elevated Cat Bowl
Q: Do all cats need an elevated bowl?
A: No, not all cats need an elevated bowl. Some cats may prefer a traditional bowl, while others may do fine with an elevated bowl. It is ultimately up to you to decide what type of bowl is best for your cat.
Q: How high should an elevated bowl be?
A: The height of the bowl will depend on the size of your cat. You will want to choose a bowl that is high enough for your cat to comfortably eat and drink from.
Q: How do I clean an elevated cat bowl?
A: You will want to choose a bowl that is easy to clean. Some bowls are dishwasher safe, while others require handwashing. Be sure to read the care instructions before purchasing a bowl.
The Bottom Line
Elevated cat bowls have both benefits and negatives. If you are considering using an elevated bowl for your cat, weigh the pros and cons to decide if it is the right choice for your furry friend. You may also want to talk to your veterinarian about whether an elevated bowl would be beneficial for your cat’s health. Ultimately, the decision is up to you and your cat. If you think an elevated bowl would be beneficial for your cat, give it a try!
Featured Image Credit: mik ulyannikov, Shutterstock
