Should I raise my cat's bowl?

Introduction

Our feline friends are true gourmets. Every meal is a moment of pleasure, but also a crucial moment for their health. We often talk about the quality of kibble or the composition of pâtés, but rarely about the position of the bowl . However, it plays an essential role in the digestive and postural well-being of the cat.

So, should you raise your cat's bowl? What are the real benefits for your cat's spine , digestion , and daily comfort ? In this article, we explore in detail the benefits of raised bowls , their benefits depending on your feline's age and morphology, as well as the mistakes to avoid.

Why Cat Posture While Eating Is Important

1. A natural position... not always ideal

In the wild, cats eat on the ground, often crouching or leaning slightly forward. This posture works well when hunting small prey.
But at home, the situation is different: the cat eats dry kibble or pâté from a fixed container, often too low for its size . As a result, it has to strongly bend its neck and front legs , which, in the long term, can create tension on the spine and cervical vertebrae .

This tension, repeated several times a day, can cause in the long term:

  • Joint discomfort in the neck.

  • Lumbar stiffness .

  • Poor circulation of air and saliva , which can aggravate digestive problems.

The benefits of a raised cat bowl

1. Better digestion

One of the main benefits of a raised bowl is improved digestion . By eating at chest height, the cat swallows more calmly, without bending excessively. This limits the risk of regurgitation , bloating and vomiting after meals.

2. A more natural and comfortable posture

A slightly raised bowl allows the cat to eat in a more upright position . The latter:

  • Reduces tension on the neck .

  • Promotes an aligned column .

  • Makes mealtimes more enjoyable, especially for older cats or those with arthritis.

3. A valuable aid for elderly or sick cats

Older cats often suffer from joint pain or muscle weakness. Bending over to eat can become painful. A raised bowl allows them to continue eating without pain, thus maintaining a good appetite .

How high should you raise your cat's bowl?

It's not a question of over-elevating it. The general rule is simple: the bowl should be at chest height when the cat is standing.

This varies depending on the size of the animal:

  • Kitten: 5 to 8 cm in height.

  • Average adult cat: 10 to 12 cm.

  • Large cat (Maine Coon type): 12 to 15 cm.

Tip : If you don't have a raised bowl, you can test the ideal height by simply placing the current bowl on a stable surface (book, small box, board). Observe your cat's reaction: if they eat more calmly, the height is probably right.

Mistakes to avoid with a raised bowl

  1. Too high : this would force the cat to raise its head, which creates reverse tension on the neck.

  2. A bowl that is too tilted : this can make it difficult for the cat to lap up its water or grab its kibble.

  3. A slippery or noisy material : Some cats dislike metallic sounds or unstable surfaces.

Choose ceramic, stainless steel or bamboo bowls with a non-slip base.

What veterinarians say

Many veterinarians agree on the benefits of raised bowls , particularly for:

  • Older cats , who often suffer from joint pain.

  • Short-snouted cats (Persians, Exotics), for whom eating flat is uncomfortable.

  • Gluttonous cats , because the elevated position helps them slow down food intake.

However, they also point out that hygiene and regularity of meals are just as important: a raised bowl does not replace a balanced diet.

The different types of raised bowls

Type of bowl Benefits Ideal for
In ceramic Stable, easy to clean, aesthetic All cats
In stainless steel Light, resistant, hygienic Greedy or clumsy cats
Bamboo / wood Ecological, designer, non-slip Modern interiors
Double raised bowl Water + kibble at the right height Cats eating and drinking in the same place

How to get a cat used to a raised bowl?

Some cats are wary of change. For a smooth transition:

  1. Leave the old bowl next to the new one for a few days.

  2. Place some treats in the raised bowl to pique his curiosity.

  3. Observe its behavior: if your cat spontaneously returns to the new one, it's a win.

Generally, most cats adapt within 2 to 3 days maximum.

Conclusion

Should you raise your cat's bowl? Yes, in the vast majority of cases.
A raised bowl helps to:

  • Better posture .

  • Easier digestion .

  • A reduction in joint pain .

  • Optimal comfort during meals.

Whether your cat is young, adult or senior, investing in a bowl at the right height is a small gesture that makes a big difference to its health and well-being.