Where not to put a cat's water bowl: a common misconception

Cats value cleanliness and privacy, so you should choose a place for a cat's meal with great care. The ideal place for a water container should be quiet and peaceful - away from busy corridors and noisy rooms.

Such a space should be free of loud sounds, such as loud music, TV, or noise associated with the operation of household appliances. Cats like to feel safe while drinking and eating. Experts told us where to put the water bowl and what places to avoid.

Where to put a cat's water bowl

You can place the water bowl, for example, near the scratching post or in a quiet, secluded place where your cat spends most of its time.

Should I place the water bowl near the food? Veterinarians don't recommend it. In the wild, cats usually drink water from sources far from where they eat. This is an evolutionary behavior aimed at avoiding water contamination with bacteria and parasites.

Contaminated drinking water can lead to health problems, including gastrointestinal infections, so cats instinctively seek out clean water. It is also worth noting that animals are very sensitive to the taste and smell of water. If the bowl is next to food, it can absorb food odors, and this will prevent them from quenching their thirst.

Cats can feel stressed or uncomfortable if water is next to their food. This can even lead to a decrease in the amount of fluid intake. And if you put the water bowl away from the food, the cat will drink more often. It is worth paying attention to this, especially if cats eat mostly dry food, as they need more fluids then.

How to choose a cat bowl

When choosing a cat bowl, you should remember that the health and well-being of your cat directly depends on the cleanliness of the container.

There are several important aspects to consider:

• Material: stainless steel, ceramic, or glass bowls are best. They are durable, easy to clean, and do not accumulate unpleasant odors, unlike plastic, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Shape and depth: The ideal cat bowl is wide and shallow. This way, your pet will be able to eat food without irritating its delicate antennae.
• Size: The bowl should be adapted to the size of the cat and its mouth. For smaller cats, deep bowls can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to access food.
• Lining: The bowl should have a non-slip base or rubber lining so that it does not move around while drinking.
• Number and location: If you have more than one cat, each cat should have its own bowl.
• Special needs: Older cats or cats with health issues may need elevated bowls or automatic food dispensers to make it easier for them to eat.

Every cat is unique and may have completely different preferences. Observing your cat's behavior will help you choose a bowl according to its individual needs to keep it healthy and happy.

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