Properly Clean Bowls (Drool, Limescale) for Pet Health
A slimy biofilm forms quickly in water bowls. It's a breeding ground for bacteria.
Recommended Materials
- White vinegar
- Dish soap
- Scrub sponge
- Dishwasher
Steps to follow
Step 1
Choice of material: Throw away plastic bowls! Plastic scratches (bacteria nests) and retains odors. Also, it often causes feline acne (blackheads under the chin). Opt for ceramic (heavy, doesn't move) or stainless steel (unbreakable, hygienic).
Step 2
Washing frequency: The water bowl and wet food bowl (pâté) must be washed EVERY day. The kibble bowl can be washed once a week.
Step 3
Biofilm (The invisible enemy): Run your finger along the bottom of the water bowl. Is it slimy? That's biofilm, a layer of bacteria and saliva that develops in 24h. Rinsing the bowl under water is not enough. You must scrub mechanically with a sponge and dish soap to eliminate it.
Step 4
Descaling: If white limescale traces appear, soak the bowl in pure white vinegar for 15 minutes. Limescale promotes bacteria attachment. Rinse thoroughly.
Step 5
Dishwasher: This is the most effective method to disinfect because the water goes up to 60°C or 70°C, which kills most germs. If you don't have a dishwasher, use very hot water for the final rinse.
Frequently Asked Questions
My cat won't drink ?
Location is crucial. In nature, a cat doesn't drink where it eats (to avoid contaminating water with its prey). Move the water bowl away from the food bowl and especially the litter box. Also try a water fountain (moving water attracts).
Precautions
- Rinse well so no soap taste remains.
- Change water every day.
