Thanks to their desert-dwelling ancestors, cats have a lower thirst drive and may drink too little water. Complete and balanced wet food provides some extra hydration, but to support healthy organ function, it's essential that cats always have easy access to clean, fresh water. The easiest way to provide fresh water is with one of the best cat water bowls. A good bowl will be made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or lead-free ceramic, have a cat-friendly design that prioritizes head and neck comfort, and be a breeze to fill and clean.
I'm a pet health writer and cat parent myself. At almost 8 years old, my tuxedo cat Stacie is set in her ways and has a sensitive stomach, so I knew she'd have strong opinions about the bowls we tested for this guide. To find the best options, I also consulted two veterinarians and a cat behaviorist and researched dozens of products. After testing 11 bowls, Stacie and I chose the Loving Pets Bella Bowl as the best overall. It's budget-friendly, dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning, made from a combination of durable stainless steel and poly-resin, and comes in many fun patterns and colors to fit any cat's home.
Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.
Our top picks for the best cat water bowls
Best overall: Loving Pets Bella Bowl - $7 at Chewy
Best stainless steel: PEGYY11 Nonslip Stainless Steel 2-Cup Bowls - $10 at Amazon
Best raised: Necoichi Ceramic Elevated Cat Water Bowl - $18 at Chewy
Best ceramic: Petrageous Designs Metro Oval (1 Cup) - $12 at Chewy
Best fountain: Petlibro Stainless Steel Fountain - $40 at Amazon
Best overall
This cat bowl has everything you want in a water bowl: It’s dishwasher-safe, made from the ultimate combination of stainless steel and poly-resin, affordable, and has a wider design for cat comfort.
What we like
What we don't like
The best cat water bowls are hygienic, affordable, easy to refill and clean, and come in a range of colors and patterns. The Loving Pets Bella Bowl hits all of these marks and more. Featuring an ergonomic, low-profile design ideal for cats, the bowl's interior is made from high-quality stainless steel, and the exterior consists of durable poly-resin. The 1.75 cup version we tested is also lightweight, and the perfect size to fit in one hand if need be, making refills with tap or filtered water hassle-free.
Stainless steel is most recommended by veterinarians and other experts for its resistance to bacteria and ease of cleaning, says Dr. Bruce Kornreich, the director of the Cornell Feline Health Center. He says the material also holds up well with repeated washing and daily use. The poly-resin exterior sets the bowl apart from the other best cat water bowls I recommend. The material adds greater durability, stability, and more design options than simple stainless steel bowls, such as our pick below.
The other standout feature is the nonskid rubber bottom, which keeps slipping, splashing, and messes to a minimum. While I love Stacie's long fur, it often gets wet when she drinks, leading to a mess around the bowl. With the Bella Bowl, the splashes from wet fur were minimal due to its wide rim. Keep in mind that while the bowl is dishwasher-safe, you'll need to remove the rubber base before washing.
Unlike other stainless steel bowls I tested, the Bella Bowl comes in eight different colors and patterns. If all of that isn't enough, it was also Stacie's favorite. She drank the most from it during testing and continues to use it.
Best stainless steel
This high-quality, no-frills stainless steel bowl is affordable, hygienic, and easy to clean, with a perfectly sized design for everyday drinking. It also comes in a convenient two-pack, making it easy to rotate bowls between meals or cleaning.
What we like
What we don't like
Stainless steel is widely considered one of the best materials for cat bowls because it's durable, hygienic, and easy to clean. Unlike plastic, stainless steel is less prone to bacterial and biofilm growth. Biofilm is a collection of bacteria or other water-resistant microbes that live inside an extracellular matrix. It's thin, slimy, often invisible, and causes a slippery texture, says Joey Lusvardi, a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant at Class Act Cats. Additionally, research shows that tap water left in a bowl for more than 12 hours was significantly more contaminated than treated water left for the same duration. The same study also shows higher levels of E. coli contamination in bowls of long-haired cats than in those of short-haired cats. All of this to say, a stainless steel bowl is the ideal choice for keeping your cat's water more free of harmful bacteria and biofilms.
When it comes to capacity and convenience, the PEGYY11 Nonslip Stainless Steel Bowls are the best in this category by far. Each bowl holds about 2 cups of water and comes in a 2-pack, so you can switch them out between cleanings. Like my other top picks, the PEGGY11 bowls have a nonslip base. The ridged silicone bottom is perfect for cats like Stacie who take big gulps that can shake the bowl.
Another feature I liked was how well the bowls held up to daily cleaning. Stainless steel rinses better than ceramic because it's nonporous and lightweight. And I could simply toss the bowls in the dishwasher without worrying about damage. After several days, I didn't see the slimy biofilm that often forms around the edges of water bowls.
While the bowl's materials are excellent, it only comes in gray, making it a poor choice for cat parents who want a pop of color. Additionally, while handwashing the bowl, the ridged bottom caused water to splash onto the sink, my hands, and my shirt.
Best raised
This lightweight, elevated porcelain bowl features convenient measurement lines for water intake and helps prevent neck strain in cats.
What we like
What we don't like
Elevated water bowls are designed to bring the basin up to a cat's natural drinking height, reducing neck strain from bending down, says Dr. Elizabeth Goedeke, medical director at VCA French Creek Animal Hospital. These types of water bowls are best for older cats and those with arthritis or other mobility issues. Stacie was familiar with this type of water bowl because its elevation and design are similar to those of the Necoichi bowl she had used for months before we started testing.
My top pick, the Necoichi Ceramic Elevated Cat Water Bowl, is a non-porous porcelain bowl that is free of heavy metals, including lead and cadmium, and is dishwasher-safe. Inside the bowl, there are clear measurement lines that make it easy to track your cat's water intake. Lastly, a small inner lip and a detachable silicone base help contain water and prevent slipping — that meant fewer splashes on the floor, even when Stacie drank a lot of water at once.
There are a couple of downsides to this bowl. It carries a higher price tag and can break or chip if knocked over or dropped. Additionally, the bowl has a slightly smaller capacity and a narrower width. "Providing relatively wide-faced water bowls may provide benefit for some cats," Kornreich says. However, he debunks "whisker fatigue" as a consideration for a cat's water bowl. While whisker stress has been noted anecdotally, he says that it's a hypothetical condition and not proven in a "scientifically rigorous manner."
Best ceramic
This wide, oval-shaped ceramic water bowl is made from durable ceramic that prevents chipping and minimizes bacterial buildup.
What we like
What we don't like
Ceramic bowls are a popular choice for cats because they're nonporous, easy to sanitize, and naturally heavier than plastic, which helps prevent them from sliding while a cat drinks. In my testing, the standout ceramic bowl was the Petrageous Designs Metro Oval dish.
It holds up well to daily cleaning. Compared to the other bowls we tested, this one was the widest and lowest to the ground. Stacie preferred drinking from it more than any other ceramic bowl, especially when it was right next to her food bowl. She also drank from it frequently when I placed it in the second location near our spare bedroom.
However, like other ceramic and porcelain bowls, the Metro Oval dish is prone to cracking or breaking if dropped. It also lacks a rubber or silicone base, so you're more likely to see spills and splashing with messy drinkers like Stacie. And while the bowl is wide, its capacity is limited. Smaller capacity bowls tend to get dirtier faster, necessitating frequent refills. For example, I found myself topping off or completely refilling the bowl at least twice a day.
Best fountain
If dealing with stubborn, slimy biofilm is a major frustration, the Petlibro Stainless Steel Fountain is your best bet. Its nearly all-stainless construction is nonporous, durable, and easy to scrub clean.
What we like
What we don't like
Research shows that the type of water bowl doesn't matter when it comes to water intake — it all depends on what your cat likes. If your cat completely avoids a regular water bowl, a cat fountain with running water might be a better option. The Petlibro Stainless Steel Fountain landed in the top spot in our guide to the best cat water fountains. It's a whisper-quiet fountain that's perfect for cats and humans alike. It's affordable, made of food-grade, durable stainless steel, and easy to clean. It also has an adjustable spout with two flow settings.
This fountain lacks a backup water supply if the power goes out, which is why you should always provide additional non-powered water sources throughout your home. Extra water bowls are a practical, budget-friendly option. And remember that fountains and bowls are both good options. "There's no definite scientific evidence that cats will drink more from a water fountain than a bowl," Kornreich says.
What to look for in a cat water bowl
There's no single perfect cat water bowl. No matter which bowl you choose, Lusvardi says it needs to be one your cat enjoys drinking out of. Based on my research, expert insights, and personal experience, here are the key features to consider when choosing the right bowl for your cat.
Cat-friendly design and capacity: All of the experts I spoke with agree with Kornreich that, while empirical evidence supporting whisker fatigue is lacking, it can't hurt to choose a bowl that's wider to prevent potential sensory overload. Lusvardi says a cat's whiskers typically span a few inches and are about as wide as their body. This width helps the cat determine if they can fit through an opening. Look for a bowl slightly wider than your cat's whiskers if possible. Like many cats, Stacie's whiskers are not one length, so finding a bowl as wide as her longest whiskers was crucial.
As for height, Goedeke says that since cats are smaller and lower to the ground than dogs, it's generally best to choose a lower-height bowl for easier access. However, she says elevated bowls are an exception since they allow cats to drink in a comfortable, upright position with their neck neutral. The rim of an elevated bowl should align roughly with a cat's lower chest or elbow level, allowing them to drink without excessive stretching or bending.
Lastly, a cat's water bowl should hold at least their daily water intake requirement. Generally, Kornreich says a 10-pound cat should drink 8 to 10 fluid ounces of water a day if they are on a dry diet only. Cats with conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, urinary tract disease, and constipation may need to drink more.
Scratch-proof, bacteria-resistant materials: Any smooth, nonporous material is ideal. Among materials, stainless steel is a highly durable option. Most importantly, you'll want to thoroughly clean any bowl to keep biofilms and the harmful bacteria within them, like E. coli, Pseudomonas, and Staphylococcus, to a minimum. If these microbes go unchecked, they can contaminate your cat's drinking water and lead to gastrointestinal distress. Lastly, look for stainless steel bowls that are free of dents and discoloration. Crack-resistant ceramic bowls are also a great option for water bowls.
Stable, nonslip base: Some cats naturally like to dip their paws into their water bowl or splash water around. While Stacie doesn't play with her water, she is a messy drinker due to her longer fur. I prioritized nonslip bowls with rubber bottoms to prevent spills and water from splashing onto the floor. If you're shopping for a ceramic bowl, look for a heavier option that's less likely to jostle around, like my pick from Necoichi.
Reasonable price: Kornreich and Goedeke recommended providing more than one water bowl to prevent territorial disputes and simplify access to water. A good rule of thumb is one bowl per cat plus an additional one. Low- to mid-priced bowls made from durable, bacteria-resistant materials like stainless steel and lead-free ceramic are practical, long-lasting options.
How we tested cat water bowls
To evaluate the 11 water bowls, I developed a series of tests based on what I learned from Lusvardi, Kornreich, and Goedeke. I tested three bowls at a time in different areas of my home. I placed one of them beside, but slightly separated from, my cat's food bowl. The next bowl was positioned by the doorway to our spare bedroom, where Stacie likes to sleep during the day. The third bowl was the farthest from Stacie's food bowl, beside a window in our living room.
I tested each bowl for an average of three to four days. Some bowls were tested for less time due to their bulkiness, messiness, or impracticality in my home — these bowls are not included in my top picks.
Beneficial design for cats: Cats, including Stacie, can be very particular about what they drink their water from. I chose wider bowls to help reduce possible whisker irritation. Many of the bowls also had a slight elevation, making them easier for cats to reach. While Stacie drank, I watched for signs of neck stress, difficulty keeping her head stable, or other signs of pain.
High-quality materials: Cat bowls can be made of stainless steel, ceramic, plastic, and even silicone. All the experts I spoke with said stainless steel and lead-free ceramic are the best because they are more durable and easier to clean, so I mainly chose bowls made from those materials. For travel or collapsible bowls, silicone is better than plastic; Kornreich says plastic can develop scratches over time that can harbor bacteria.
Capacity: I weighed each bowl with a food scale, then subtracted that weight from the total when it was filled with water to determine its capacity. To track how much Stacie drank, I reweighed the bowls at the end of each day using the same method. I also used a pet camera to monitor how often Stacie approached each bowl.
Cleanability: Keeping your cat's water bowls clean is essential to prevent bacteria buildup. I left some promising bowls out to see how much dirt and hair accumulated, and noted which bowls needed more frequent cleaning. I washed all bowls by hand for comparison and evaluated whether they were dishwasher-safe.
Potential for spills: Contrary to popular belief, some cats, especially Bengals, love water and especially enjoy playing with it. To simulate these scenarios, I gently bumped each bowl after I filled it halfway to see how much water would splash out.
Meet the expert behind this guide
Kathleen Frost, freelance pet reporter: I'm a freelance pet reporter for Business Insider Reviews, and have worked as a health writer and editor for Rover, PetMD, Chewy, and Petco. Over the years, I've interviewed dozens of veterinarians and behaviorists about all things cat health and behavior. I also have a master's degree in science writing from Johns Hopkins University. I've had my cat Stacie since she was 7 months old, so I've built the kind of trust where I know she's down to participate in any testing I whip up. I knew she'd be the perfect tester for all of these water bowls.
Cat water bowls FAQs
What type of bowl do cats prefer for water?
There's no single right type of cat water bowl. While our experts prefer wide, shallow bowls for their own cats, raised bowls might be better for older cats or those with mobility issues. For example, Lusvardi says a shallow bowl is best if your cat likes to dip their paws into the water. However, cats like Stacie, approaching middle or older age, might prefer a larger, elevated bowl so they don't have to lean all the way down to drink.
What material is best for a cat water bowl?
Stainless steel is the most recommended material for cat water bowls because it's bacteria-resistant and often scratch-resistant. A lead-free, BPA-free, dishwasher-safe ceramic bowl is a great option, too. It's best to avoid plastic. Lusvardi and Kornreich say plastic bowls are a breeding ground for bacteria. If you're traveling, walking your cat, or need one on the go, a silicone travel bowl like this Frisco one is OK as long as you clean it thoroughly after each use.
How often should you clean your cat's water bowl?
Our experts recommend washing your cat's water bowls once a day. Daily cleaning prevents slime and biofilm from forming around the edges of the bowl. For longhaired cats like Stacie, it also keeps hair from collecting in the water.
How many water bowls does my cat need?
As with litter boxes, you should have a water bowl for each cat, plus at least one additional bowl for easier access, especially if you live in a larger home. This helps prevent territorial behavior, including cats guarding their water. Goedeke also recommends keeping at least one of your cat's water bowls separated from their food bowl and placing them in quiet spots to limit distractions. Lastly, if you live in a multi-storied home, she says to have one water bowl on each floor.
Do cats prefer warmer or colder water?
No two cats are the same, so it's impossible to say which temperature is best. A 2023 study evaluating a small group of cats did not find a statistically significant difference in water intake between cats offered room-temperature water or water cooled with ice cubes. To learn more about your cat's preferences, you could try offering a bowl of cold water alongside an identical bowl of room-temperature water.
Can cats share water bowls?
Yes, but only if there are enough bowls to go around. Kornreich says cats are territorial animals and will resource guard if there isn't enough water to go around. In general, Goedeke says you should have multiple water bowls spaced around your home, especially if you have multiple cats.
Do cats prefer shallow or deep water bowls?
For most healthy cats, shallow water bowls are best. Cats are low to the ground, so wide, shallow bowls make it easier to access water. Additionally, Kornreich says because a cat's whiskers are more sensitive since they're embedded in nerve-filled follicles, the larger size can help prevent possible overstimulation.
However, a slightly deeper water bowl might be helpful if you're worried your cat (or you) might make a mess with a shallower bowl. For example, I found I preferred a deeper bowl because the shallower ones were messy to refill, weigh, and move.
Do certain health conditions affect which water bowl is best for your cat?
If your cat has certain medical conditions, Kornreich says it's best to work with a vet to determine which cat water bowls are best for your cat. Cats with these conditions may have different hydration habits than the average healthy cat. Some medical conditions that may affect drinking habits are kidney disease, diabetes, arthritis or other mobility issues, hyperthyroidism, dental problems, and central nervous system disease.
You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.
Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@businessinsider.com.
