Raised vs Standard Pet Bowls: Which is Better for Your Furry Friend?

It is a well-accepted fact that raised pet bowls are better for your pet. But is it always? Let’s dive into the world of raised vs. standard pet bowls, because yes, your pet's dining experience matters!

The Case for Raised vs Standard Pet Bowls

You’ve probably heard people singing the praises of raised bowls like they’re the gold standard in fine pet dining. And honestly, there’s a good reason! While there’s no definitive scientific consensus proving that raised bowls are universally better, there are specific situations where they are beneficial, particularly for pets with certain health issues like arthritis or mobility challenges. Raised bowls may be a better choice for certain pets, particularly larger breeds with joint issues, as they help reduce neck strain. However, according to a study by Purdue University*:

"Certain large and giant dog breeds may face an increased risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat) when using raised bowls. Pet parents of deep-chested breeds should consult their vet about the best options."

 

So it's not a one-size-fits-all solution (surprise-surprise 😊).

Known benefits of raised pet bowls:

• Aid in digestion: Especially for larger dogs or those with neck or joint issues. Raised pet bowls reduce the need to crouch down, which can help with smoother swallowing and digestion.
• Reduce strain: If your dog or cat is feeling a little stiff in the joints, raised pet bowls keep them from doing an awkward yoga stretch at mealtime. This is particularly helpful for aging pets or those with arthritis.
• Three-pawed pets rejoice: Pets missing a limb, like our resilient three-pawed friends, benefit greatly from raised bowls. These bowls reduce the physical challenge of balancing while eating, especially on the earlier stage after the surgery, making mealtime more comfortable and less frustrating.
• Keep things tidy: For pets who are prone to splashing water or scattering kibbles, a raised bowl might help keep some of the chaos off your floor—keyword: “some.”

Cats vs Dogs: Does It Matter?

The raised vs standard pet bowls debate isn’t just for dogs—cats have a stake in this too! When comparing cat dishes to dog dishes, there are a few key differences:

• Cats typically prefer shallow or wider bowls: Due to their sensitive whiskers (a phenomenon known as whisker fatigue), cats are more comfortable eating from shallow or pretty wide bowls that don’t brush against their whiskers too much. Raised cat bowls can still be a great option, as long as the bowl is wide or shallow.
• Dogs need stability: Larger dogs, in particular, benefit from sturdy raised bowls that won’t slide around. While cats are more dainty eaters, dogs—especially enthusiastic ones—can knock over standard bowls, creating an unintentional food art installation on your kitchen floor.

But Wait... Is a Raised Bowl Always Better?

Not so fast! Raised bowls aren’t the perfect solution for every pet, despite what fancy pet Instagram accounts might tell you. Here, some reasons to pick a side of standard bowls in this battle:

• Small pets, no problem: For smaller pets, especially little dogs and cats, the floor-level buffet works just fine. They aren’t doing the neck-straining acrobatics of larger animals, so a standard bowl often makes more sense.
• The bloat factor: As mentioned earlier, studies like the one from Purdue suggest raised bowls could increase the risk of bloat for some deep-chested dogs. However, it is not proven that standard bowls would prevent it from happening (take a look). It’s important to weigh the pros and cons, especially if your dog is prone to this condition.
• They can be pricey: Let’s be real—raised bowls often come with a higher price tag. If your pet is fine with a standard bowl, why overcomplicate things?

How to Choose: Raised or Standard?

When it comes to picking raised vs standard pet bowls, consider a few things:

1. Pet size: Large breeds (think Great Danes or Mastiffs) or pets with joint issues benefit from raised bowls, while smaller or younger pets do just fine with standard ones.
2. Health concerns: Talk to your vet if your pet is at risk for any health issues like bloat or if they have specific digestive concerns.
3. Personality and preference: Yes, even pets have preferences. Some might look at a raised bowl and wonder why dinner is now on a pedestal, while others will embrace the upgrade like they’ve won a luxury prize.

Final Thoughts: The Bowl Dilemma, Solved

At the end of the day, whether you opt for a raised or standard pet bowl comes down to your pet's needs, their quirky preferences, and maybe even your home décor. For some pets, a raised bowl offers the perfect balance of comfort and style, while others are just as happy with the classic floor-level feast. So, take a look at your pet, consider their size, health, and personality, and then decide: Are they more of a laid-back, traditional diner, or ready to step up (literally) to a raised dining experience?

Whichever you choose, one thing’s for sure—your pet’s mealtime will always be the highlight of their day (and probably yours too). After all, your pet deserves to dine in style!🐾🍽️

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*Purdue University study titled: "Non-dietary risk factors for gastric dilatation-volvulus in large and giant breed dogs" by Glickman, L.T. et al., published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2000.