Bowl Me Over: Innovation Affecting How We Feed Our Pets

Not too long ago, a pet’s food and water bowls most likely consisted of the owner’s “gently used” dishes and saucers. Now, a trip down a pet store aisle or quick internet search will turn up items that are innovative and specialized to meet the individual needs of the pet as well as the family’s lifestyle. The global pet food bowl market size totaled $3.30 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to $4.50 billion by 2028, according to a report from Expert Market Research. Factors fueling the growth include an awareness of the importance of pet hygiene and the influence of product advertisements on social media.

When pets eat or drink, they can transfer bacteria in their saliva to the surface of the bowls. Bowls are constructed of numerous substances including plastic, ceramic, or metal and have advantages and disadvantages when it comes to managing bacteria. Plastic bowls are often light and inexpensive but known to develop bacteria that can cause allergic reactions. Plastic bowls are a main cause of feline acne. Ceramic bowls offer more resistance to bacteria, as they can be placed in a dishwasher but are also breakable. Metal—usually stainless steel—dishes are sturdier but lightweight and dishwasher-safe; however, they are not as aesthetically pleasing as plastic or ceramic bowls, which often have cute patterns and can better match a home’s décor.

A variety of automatic pet feeders and waterers are now on the market that can provide owners with a sense of security knowing the pet will have continual access to fresh food and water even when they aren’t there. Feeders can be programmed to release the right amount of food on a timer and water fountains use filters to provide cleaner water. Some devices can even deliver treats for your pet. Sophisticated feeders can use microchip technology to distinguish between pets and understand individual dietary requirements. They can also monitor food and water intake to enable pet parents to detect more quickly any changes in a pet’s habits that could be due to health issues.

A number of pet bowls and feeding products have been designed to help address pet health issues. For example, elevated bowls can be beneficial for digestion and prevent orthopedic pain, as pets don’t have to strain as much to reach their food. This can be more important as pets age. Also available are slow feeder bowls and lick mats that feature intricate design elements that prevent the pet from eating too fast and gulping their food. This can help with overeating and avoid bloat, a potentially fatal condition where dogs’ stomachs fill up with air.

Other products on the market include puzzle feeders designed to provide a more interactive experience that can help with pet boredom by providing mental stimulation and foldable bowls for pets on the go.

Of course, some of these items can be pricey, so it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to determine what kinds of bowls are best for you and your pet. When introducing a new type of feeder to your pet, be patient and encouraging as it might take them some time to adjust.