Stainless steel and melamine are the best materials for traditional cat bowls: they are sturdy, durable and easy to clean. While it can easily break, ceramic is also very appreciated by our cat friends. Here are some key aspects to get a quality feeder:
The material it is made from is easy to clean, doesn't absorb or retain dirt, pathogens or odours. Stainless steel, melamine, ceramic and glass are therefore great options.
It doesn't contain any toxic material or compound. If your cat suffers from dermatitis or allergies, we recommend you opt for a hypoallergenic material like glass or stainless steel.
The bowl and base are detachable to facilitate washing, and round edges are a big plus.
Design-wise, a bowl with a raised support will result more comfortable for your kitty.
Its diameter should be big enough so that the whiskers don't bend when touching the bowl. Otherwise, it will be very uncomfortable for your cat.
The depth should be moderate; cats don't appreciate having to put their head to far down the bowl, so deep feeders should be avoided. On the other hand, a model that's too shallow will lead the cat to scatter its food all over the place.
The base should be non-slip, as many cats have a habit of moving and pushing the bowl while they eat.