The Best Cat Water Bowl
Keeping your four-legged friends happy and healthy is the most important part of pet ownership. A key to doing so is giving them access to the food and water they need, whenever they need it. If your current bowls aren't cutting it, it might be time for an upgrade. Instead of basic stainless steel designs, think bigger. We've rounded up our favorite cat water bowls that make it easier for your feline companion to stay hydrated, all without ruining your interior aesthetic.
What to Look For
When shopping for your new water bowl, consider three things: the capacity, the durability and material of the bowl, and the overall style. The Kitty City bowl is our favorite raised option as it helps minimize digestive issues for your furry friend. The two-bowl set also comes with a convenient non-slip mat. The CZPET gravity bowl is the most low-maintenance option, thanks to its three-liter capacity. The bowl even fills itself, so you don’t have to remember to refresh your pet’s water supply every day. Explore these bowls and our other favorites to find the best one for your cat.
Kitty City Raised Cat Food and Water Bowl
New heights
This bowl blends the best of form and function. The raised design puts food and water closer to your pet’s mouth, making it possible for them to eat and drink without any discomfort. They’re even oval-shaped, so cats can access their food and water without hitting their whiskers. The dishwasher-safe bowls are also modern and stylish, making them a design you’ll want to display openly in your home.
Pros:
- Though the bowls themselves aren’t non-slip, they come with a non-skid mat to keep them in place — even on slick surfaces.
- You can use the bowls for both wet and dry food.
Cons:
- They don’t hold very much, so you’ll have to replace the water very frequently.
FUKUMARU Elevated Cat Ceramic Bowls
Standing ovation
Instead of hunching over to eat and drink, cats can get more comfortable with this stand feeder. The elevated bowls are tilted at a 15-degree angle, reducing pressure and helping to prevent digestive issues. With a sleek, Scandanavian-inspired design, the bowls are also stylish enough to leave out in any room. When you need to, you can even throw them in the dishwasher for a low-maintenance, high-impact option for your pets.
Pros:
- You can use these bowls for both dogs and cats, making them an all-purpose feeding solution for all of your pets.
- These bowls are made from ceramic, so they’re heavier and more durable than many plastic alternatives.
Cons:
- It may take some cats a while to get used to the standing feeder.
AsFrost Cat Food Bowls
If your cat is a messy eater, this is a convenient, affordable solution. Two stainless steel bowls nestle perfectly into a rubber mat that catches any spills or water drips. This prevents them from ruining your carpet or flooring and makes clean-up much faster than before. Each bowl holds up to one-and-a-half cups of food, allowing you to adjust the serving size to suit your cat. It’s also available in larger sizes if you want a matching design for bigger pets.
Pros:
- You can put both the bowls and the mat right into the dishwasher, so it’s super low maintenance.
- Because of the rubber mat, your pet can’t push the bowls or tip them over. They’ll always stay exactly where you put them.
Cons:
- Dirt and dust get stuck to the rubber mat easily, which can be hard to clean.
PetSafe Seaside Water Fountain Bowl
Keep it flowing
With continuously bubbling water, this fountain design ensures your pet gets all of the water they need. The 60-ounce bowl is crafted from durable stainless steel that won’t rust, dent, or scratch, making it perfect for even the most unruly pets. It also bubbles quietly, so it won’t disturb or disrupt you while you’re nearby.
Pros:
- The bowl is easy to assemble and disassemble, so you can clean it quickly when you need to.
- It’s big enough that you can use it for both your cats and dogs.
Cons:
- Unlike most water bowls, this one has a cord, so it needs to be placed near an outlet.
CZPET Gravity Water Dispenser
Instead of refilling your pets’ water bowl every day, this design lets you set it and forget it. The three-liter dispenser automatically fills as your pets drink, ensuring they always have plenty of fresh water. Because it’s made from durable plastic, you can use the bowl inside and outside to give your pets access wherever they need it.
Pros:
- For small pets like cats, the water supply should last for up to six days, so you don’t have to remember to fill it often.
- It doesn’t use batteries or electricity, allowing you to place it anywhere in your home — even away from an outlet.
Cons:
- The bowl is very shallow, so it’s not a practical design for larger pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I put my cat’s water bowl?
It’s best to put your cat’s water bowl in a quiet, low-traffic area. Cats prefer to eat and drink without being disturbed, so avoid busy areas like hallways or entryways. Instead, opt for a secluded corner in the kitchen or living area where they’ll feel more comfortable.
Should I put my cat’s water bowl near their food?
Most cats will not drink their water if it is immediately next to their food. This is an instinct that many believe helps them prevent contaminating their water. Instead, place your cat’s water bowl at least a few feet from their food bowl and their litter box to ensure they drink an adequate amount to stay hydrated.
Why Trust Us
Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.