A simple practice to ensure your pet’s well-being is to maintain hygiene. Right from the floor they roll over to their bed and from their toys to feeding bowls, everything should be clean. Yes, you read it right! Feeding bowls of pets also need to be well maintained because what is in the bowl is what’s going inside their stomach. You must change your pet’s feeding bowl frequently for several reasons:
Hygiene: Regularly changing the food bowls of your pets helps maintain proper hygiene. This prevents the accumulation of bacteria, mold, or any other harmful microorganisms, which can pose health risks to your pet if they consume contaminated food or water.
Food residue and odours: Over time, food residue can build up on the bowl’s surface, leading to unpleasant odours and potential aversion to eating from the bowl. Regular cleaning and changing of the bowl can keep it fresh and appeal to your pet.
Allergies and sensitivity: Some pets may develop allergies or sensitivities to certain materials used in their food bowls. Changing to a different bowl material may alleviate gastrointestinal or skin issues.
Wear and tear: Frequent use of pet bowls causes wear and tear, leading to scratches and cracks that can become a breeding ground for bacteria, making it difficult to clean properly. Replacing the bowl can ensure a fresh, clean surface for your pet’s food.
Plastic bowls issues: If your pet eats in plastic bowls, it may develop small scratches or cracks over time, offering a breeding ground for bacteria and making it harder to sanitise effectively. Switching to stainless steel, ceramic, or other non-porous materials can be a safer alternative.
Accidents and breakages: Accidents happen all the time. Bowls might accidentally get knocked over or broken. Having spare bowls at hand ensures your pet can continue to eat and drink without disruption.
To maintain your pet’s health and well-being, it’s essential to clean their food and water bowls regularly and replace them as and when necessary. How frequently you change the bowls will depend on your pet’s specific needs and habits, but a good rule of thumb is to clean them daily and replace them every few months.