Fact vs. Fiction
Recently, there has been a lot of information circulating on social media about “biofilm” in pet water bowls. While some of the information is based on real science, many of the claims are exaggerated or simply not supported by veterinary research. Here’s what you need to know.
What is biofilm?
Biofilm is the thin, slippery film that can develop on the inside of your pet’s water bowl. It is made up of naturally occurring bacteria, saliva, food particles, and other organic material that attach to surfaces.
Biofilm can form on any surface that stays moist, including:
- Pet water bowls
- Water bottles
- Kitchen sinks
- Tooth surfaces (dental plaque is a type of biofilm!)
FACT:
Biofilm contains bacteria.
This is true. Like many surfaces in our homes, pet water bowls can accumulate bacteria over time. That’s why routine cleaning is important.
FICTION:
Biofilm causes kidney disease or liver disease.
There is no scientific evidence showing that normal biofilm found in household pet water bowls causes chronic kidney disease or liver disease in dogs or cats.
Kidney and liver diseases have many well-established causes, including aging, genetics, infections, toxins, inflammation, and certain medications, not ordinary biofilm in a clean household environment.
FACT:
Clean water bowls are important for your pet’s health.
Keeping your pet’s water bowl clean helps reduce bacterial buildup and provides fresh, clean drinking water.
We recommend:
- Clean your pet’s water dish each day using hot water and soap.
- Top it off with clean water daily, adding more throughout the day if necessary.
- Stainless steel bowls are generally the easiest to keep clean.
- Replace bowls that are cracked or heavily scratched, especially plastic ones.
FICTION:
A slimy bowl means your pet is in danger.
A slippery film simply means it’s time to wash the bowl. While excessive bacterial buildup isn’t ideal, finding biofilm does not mean your pet is developing kidney or liver disease.
Good daily cleaning is all that’s typically needed.
When should I be concerned?
If your pet is showing signs of illness, please contact your veterinarian. Symptoms such as:
- Increased drinking or urination
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
should always be evaluated, regardless of how clean the water bowl is.
Our Recommendation
At Stonebridge Veterinary Wellness, we encourage good hygiene practices because they help keep pets healthy.
Daily bowl cleaning, fresh water, regular wellness exams, and routine bloodwork are the best ways to support your pet’s overall health.
Questions?
We’re always happy to help separate fact from fiction. If you have questions about something you’ve seen online, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our veterinary professionals.
