Choosing the Right Food and Water Bowls for Your Cat

Bowls come in ceramic, plastic, and stainless steel; a wooden stand with ceramic is the classic best choice. Ceramic resists heat and bacteria and is heavy enough not to slide; pick a wide rim (wider than the cat's whiskers) and a stand to raise it. Plastic is fine for travel but breeds bacteria and can leach into food, so avoid long-term use. Stainless is easy to clean but trace chromium/nickel can dissolve from salty food and may trigger allergies. Skip automatic feeders and fountains except for long trips—cats prefer fresh daily water and the bonding of hand-feeding.