08/19/2025
Has your pet ever stopped eating or drinking, leaving you wondering what is going on? Sometimes I find that to be the case when caring for pets while the owners are gone. But I have a simple solution...wash the bowls!
Our pets are significantly more sensitive to the presence of bacteria than we are. When their bowls are not cleaned regularly, bacteria will increase, causing them to avoid whatever is in the bowl.
Some think that adding fresh water daily is fine, but if you LOOK at the bowl and the quality of the water, you may see floaters (food and grime that has been left behind when your pet drinks) and scum. Dumping the water and wiping the bowl will frequently result in red-ish slime (biofilm) being removed from the inside. That is what may be causing your pet to avoid the water and food bowls. According to online sources, it can also lead to health issues (see below).
"Biofilm
bacteria in water bowls
Bacteria in water bowls can pose significant health risks to both pets and humans. The presence of biofilm, which is a collection of bacteria and microorganisms, can lead to various health issues, including periodontal diseases, urinary tract infections, and even systemic illnesses. It is crucial to maintain cleanliness in pet bowls to prevent the accumulation of harmful bacteria. Regular cleaning with hot, soapy water and proper drying is essential to eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases."
So what's the solution? Wash bowls daily with warm soapy water and dry them before serving your pet's next meal. This will go a long way toward keeping your pet healthy and happy.