Straight answers to the questions cat owners ask us most about bowls, feeders and water fountains.
Why are plastic bowls bad for cats?
Plastic bowls scratch easily and those scratches trap bacteria that regular washing cannot fully remove. That bacteria buildup is a leading cause of feline chin acne. Stainless steel and glazed ceramic are non porous, hygienic and dishwasher safe, which is why every Kitty Care bowl uses them and none use plastic.
What is whisker fatigue?
Whisker fatigue is the stress a cat feels when its sensitive whiskers repeatedly press against the sides of a deep, narrow bowl. Cats with whisker fatigue may paw food onto the floor, tip bowls or stop eating. A wide, shallow or tilted bowl lets a cat eat without its whiskers touching the sides.
Are elevated cat bowls better for cats?
Yes, for most cats. A bowl raised to roughly chest height lets a cat eat in a natural posture instead of crouching to the floor, which supports easier swallowing and digestion and reduces neck strain. Elevated bowls particularly help kittens, senior cats and cats that vomit after eating.
Why should cats drink from a water fountain?
Cats evolved to distrust still water, so many barely touch a standing bowl and stay chronically under hydrated, which strains their kidneys and urinary tract. A fountain keeps water moving and filtered, which encourages cats to drink more. Vets commonly recommend increasing water intake to support kidney and urinary health.
How often should I clean a cat water fountain?
Wash the fountain body, bowl and pump about once a week with warm soapy water, and replace the carbon filter every two to four weeks depending on use. All Kitty Care fountains disassemble without tools and have replacement filter sets available.
Are stainless steel cat bowls dishwasher safe?
Yes. Food grade stainless steel is dishwasher safe and will not crack, rust or hold odours. The glazed ceramic bowls in our range are also dishwasher safe. Wooden and bamboo stands should be wiped clean rather than submerged.
How long does Kitty Care shipping take?
Orders are processed within 1 to 2 business days, then delivery typically takes 7 to 12 business days from dispatch. Shipping is free Australia wide on orders over $80, with a flat $9.99 rate on smaller orders. Every order is trackable from dispatch.
What is Kitty Care?
Kitty Care is an Australian cat health brand that designs whisker friendly, plastic free feeding gear: stainless steel and ceramic cat bowls, elevated feeders and quiet filtered water fountains. The range is built around one idea, that everyday feeding equipment should actively protect feline health.
Last updated: 10 August 2026