Danger in your pet's bowl

Would you eat from a bowl or drink from a glass that hadn’t been washed in several days?

Many of us are likely to sit our pet’s water and food bowls outside in the summer months for them to enjoy their dinner or a cool drink in the good weather.

But did you know that our pet’s bowls need to be cleaned just as regularly as the dishes we eat and drink from especially if they are left outside? Studies have shown that pet bowls are the third most contaminated item in the household and are a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, such as Salmonella and E. coli that can make you and your pets ill.

To keep you and your pet safe and avoid illness, we encourage you to do the following:

How Often Should I Wash My Pet’s Bowls?

Ideally, after every use.

It is recommended that bowls are washed and cleaned immediately after your pet has finished eating to avoid bacteria growth.

If your pet’s bowls are left outside, they should be cleaned twice a day, due to the increased risk of contamination from insects and plant debris.

What Bowl is Best?

Stainless steel bowls are tough and much more hygienic as they are easier to sanitise compared to plastic. They will also last longer than plastic bowls.

Ceramic pet bowls are a great choice if you want to combine style with function. Ceramic pet bowls are heavier than metal or plastic bowls, so your dog or cat can’t knock or push them around so easily, and they also keep food and water cooler for longer on hot days. The protective glaze means they are very easy to keep clean, especially if the bowl is dishwasher safe, so they are hygienic too.

You can purchase water and food bowls at our Pet Supplies Shop located in the Newry Animal Hospital, in which all the profits made goes directly towards the USPCA’s vital work.

How Do I Wash My Pet’s Bowls?

Rinse your pet’s bowls under running water, and then hand-wash in hot water with liquid or detergent soap, rinse well after.

(Tip: Clean your pet’s bowls last and use a separate sponge)

Your pet’s bowls can also be placed in the dishwasher, but if they are plastic place them on the top rack to avoid them melting.

Let’s keep our pets happy and healthy, by cleaning their bowls regularly!