When was the last time you washed your pet's food and water dishes? If you don't remember, or it's been a few days (or weeks!), you might want to take a close look at those dishes.
Not washing your dog or cat's dishes can cause them to become breeding grounds for all kinds of nasty bacteria. This can lead to pets not wanting to eat or drink out of them and can even cause your pets to get sick. Here are some tips to help you ensure you are cleaning your pet's dishes often enough.
Food Dishes
Ideally, your pets should get clean dishes every single day, just like you do. Left unwashed, dishes can get a slimy film on the bottom and start breeding bacteria. If you feed your pet wet food, it should be washed each day. No matter how much your pet licks it clean, there will still be residue. Pets that eat dry food should also have their dishes cleaned each day, but if you don't do it each day, at least commit to cleaning it every other day.
Water Dishes
Like food dishes, water dishes should be cleaned each day. If nothing else, be sure to clean it once it's empty. Topping off the water continuously sets you up to clean the dish infrequently, so try letting the water run out to help prompt you to clean it at regular intervals. If the bowl gets too dirty, some pets will avoid drinking out of it which can lead to dehydration. And, without frequent cleanings, the water bowl can grow lots of bacteria.
Cleaning Made Easy
Stainless steel and crock-style dishes are the easiest to clean. Running the dishes through the dishwasher is the easiest way to ensure they get thoroughly clean. Get in the habit of doing it every day! Your pet will be happier and healthier.
For all your pet care needs, contact Intermountain Pet Hospital!
