Tips for Selecting the Best Pet Bowls

Did you know that something as seemingly innocuous as pet bowls could harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella? That's right; failing to properly clean your pet's bowls and food can lead to the spread of diseases like salmonellosis, posing a serious risk to both your pet and your family. A research by BMCvetres.biomedcentral found that the bacterial contamination is caused or effected by feed type, pet bowl material and cleaning method used for the bowl. 

This highlights the critical need for pet owners to be discerning when selecting pet bowls. Beyond just considering aesthetics or affordability, it's imperative to prioritize factors that promote hygiene and safety. After all, your pet's bowl is more than just a vessel for food and water—it's a crucial component of their daily routine and overall health maintenance.

How to Choose the Right Pet Bowl for your pet?

Here’s a quick overview of factor that you need to consider when it comes to buying the best pet bowl out in the market for your friend:

1. Material Matters:

The first thing to consider when choosing a pet bowl is the material it's made from. 

Common options include:

• Pet bowls made of stainless steel are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to bacteria growth, making them an excellent choice for most pets. 
• Ceramic bowls are also sturdy and come in various designs, but they can chip or break if dropped. 
• Plastic bowls are affordable and lightweight, but they can harbor bacteria and may cause allergic reactions in some pets. 
• Silicone bowls are collapsible and portable, ideal for travel, but they may not be as durable as other materials.

The Verdict:

The study done by BMCvetres concluded that the dog food bowls are at higher risk of microbiological contamination when made of metal. That said going for a ceramic pet bowl is definitely a good choice. When it comes to plastic bowls they are also considered to harbor bacteria although less than metal as the study suggests. 

The durability factor makes silicone a less likely choice. 

2. Size and Capacity:

Depending on your pet’s breed you must check the size and capacity of the bowl to ensure your furry friend gets the right amount of food or water. For dogs, the bowl should be large enough to hold a full meal without spilling over, while for cats, a smaller bowl is sufficient for their smaller portions.

Note:

Consider the depth of the bowl, especially for breeds with long ears or snouts, to prevent discomfort while eating or drinking.

3. Design and Functionality:

While hunting for the best pet bowl you will come across several options in design and functionality. Some bowls feature non-slip bases to prevent sliding during meal times, while others have elevated stands to promote better posture and digestion, especially for larger dogs. 

What to do?

Consider your pet's eating habits and any specific requirements, such as slow-feed bowls for pets that eat too quickly or raised bowls for older pets with arthritis or joint issues.

4. Easy to Clean:

Choose a bowl that's easy to clean and dishwasher safe. Avoid bowls with intricate designs or crevices that can trap food particles and bacteria, as they can be challenging to clean thoroughly. 

Note:

Stainless steel and ceramic bowls are the easiest to clean and sanitize, while plastic bowls may retain odors and stains over time.

Benefits of Ceramic Pet Bowls 

Here’s why ceramic pet bowls are becoming a popular choice among pet owners: 

1. Hygiene and Safety

When it comes to harboring bacteria or leaching harmful chemicals, ceramic is a hygienic material. Unlike porous materials like plastic, ceramic is non-porous, meaning it doesn't absorb food particles or bacteria. This makes ceramic bowls easy to clean and sanitize, either by hand washing or in the dishwasher. Its resistance to rust and corrosion adds to making it popular buying choice among pet owners.

2. Temperature Regulation

Ceramic bowls have natural insulating properties. This keeps the pet food and water cooler in hot weather and warm in freezing weather.  Additionally, ceramic bowls can be safely used in the microwave to warm up food or in the freezer to chill treats, adding to their versatility and convenience.

3. Durability

One of the most significant advantages of ceramic pet bowls is their durability. Unlike plastic bowls that can easily scratch, warp, or harbor bacteria, ceramic bowls are sturdy and long-lasting. They're resistant to scratches, stains, and odors, ensuring a hygienic dining experience for your pet. 

Note: A high-quality ceramic bowl can withstand years of use without showing signs of wear and tear but you must take proper care. However, it is recommended to change the pet bowl for hygiene of your pet. 

4. Weight and Stability

If you have larger dogs like Great Danes or pets that are prone to tipping over their food bowls, ceramic pet are definitely a smart pick for you. These bowls tend to be heavier than their plastic or stainless steel counterparts. The added weight provides stability, preventing the bowl from sliding or spilling during meal times. Additionally, many ceramic bowls come with a non-slip base to further enhance stability and minimize messes.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

As a pet owner, we want to buy best pet products for our furry friends. So we can’t go for something that misses the aesthetic appeal. That said, eyond the practical benefits, ceramic pet bowls also offer aesthetic appeal. They come in a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns to suit any taste or decor style. Whether you prefer a classic, understated look or a bold, vibrant design, there's a ceramic pet bowl to match your preferences. 

Best Selling Ceramic Pet Bowls at Koston 

As pet owners ourselves, we understand the desire to provide our furry friends with the best care possible. That's why we founded Koston, a brand dedicated to creating designer pet accessories that are not only unique and stylish but also sustainable.

From elegant designs to eco-friendly materials, our pet bowls are crafted with both your pet's well-being and your aesthetic preferences in mind.

Here’s the top selling pet bowls that you can explore at Koston:

Oreo Pet Bowl: 

Made in South Korea, Oreo pet bowl is stylish and functional. It features a raised-leg design. This ensures that your furry friend doesn’t have to strain or scrunch while eating, promoting better posture and digestion.  strain or scrunch while eating, promoting better posture and digestion. You will also find the Oreo pet bowl with the glass material and Walnut coloured wood. 

Features: 

• Dishwasher safe
• Microwave safe
• Scratch resistant
• Suitable for cats and medium-size dogs

AL Dining Set Pet Bowl

Made in South Korea, you can buy two colors(black and white) in this amazing pet bowl set at Koston. Designed with both form and function in mind, the AL Dining Set Pet Bowl features a heavy base that keeps it firmly in place while your pet enjoys their food. Say goodbye to spills and messes with this sturdy and reliable bowl by your pet's side.

Features: 

• Aluminum and Ceramic Construction
• Heavy Base
• Suitable for Small to Medium-Sized Pets
• Designed with dimensions of 5.5" x 5.5”

How to keep the Pet Bowls Clean and Hygienic? 

As per the National Sanitation Foundation, pet bowls are known to be the fourth most germ harboring thing at your home. If as pet parents you don’t keep the bowls clean, then they might be the hotspot for bacteria like salmonella and E. coli. 

Here are some tips that you should follow to avoid such bacterial infestations: 

• Wash the Pet Bowl Separately:

Always wash your pet's bowl separately from your own dishes to prevent cross-contamination of bacteria and germs.

• Keep a Separate Pet Sponge:

Designate a sponge specifically for cleaning your pet's bowl to avoid transferring food particles or bacteria from other surfaces.

• Use Hot Water, Not Lukewarm Water:

Hot water helps to effectively remove food residue and bacteria from the bowl's surface, ensuring thorough cleaning.

• Disinfect the Bowl:

Regularly disinfect your pet's bowl to kill any lingering bacteria. Soak the bowl in a solution of white vinegar and water or use a pet-safe disinfectant recommended by your veterinarian.

• Ensure Proper Drying:

After washing and disinfecting, make sure to dry the bowl thoroughly before serving pet food in it. Proper drying helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

Conclusion

As pet owners we must  ensure a safe and hygienic dining experience for our furry friend. Start by picking the right  material pet bowl. Also, don’t forget that regular cleaning and sanitizing help prevent the spread of bacteria and keep your pet healthy and happy. 

If you are looking for pet bowls or other pet accessories that are unique, stylish and offer practical benefits, explore Koston. Our brand focuses on bringing the best for your furry friends. We ensure the best quality by using eco-friendly and pet-friendly materials.