June 22, 2025, 2:21 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The sun is shining, and temperatures are rising—perfect for cats that love to bask in the warmth. However, what benefits them can turn their food bowl into a breeding ground for germs. Here’s how to ensure hygienic food and fresh water for your pet during the summer heat.
In high temperatures, leftover food in the bowl spoils quickly, and germs spread–this can have health consequences for cats. The German Pet Supplies Industry Association (IVH) offers tips for safe feeding on hot days.
Clean the Bowl Promptly
Even at temperatures starting around 68 degrees Fahrenheit, the germ load in the food bowl increases significantly. Wet food, raw meat, or fish, in particular, provide ideal conditions for bacteria and mold to form in a short time. Therefore, it is essential to check the cat’s bowl for any leftovers and remove them no later than half an hour after feeding. The bowl should then be thoroughly rinsed–not just superficially. At least once a day, a thorough cleaning with hot water and a drop of dish soap is necessary.
Feed Small Portions
Offering food in smaller amounts throughout the day significantly reduces the risk of germ development. The shorter the food stays in the bowl, the lower the risk of pathogens spreading. An additional benefit: This feeding method is easier on the cat’s digestion. Learn why you should generally feed your cat multiple times a day in this article: Feeding Your Cat Only Twice a Day Risks Its Health.
Don’t Forget Fresh Water
Cats naturally drink rather little–making fresh water all the more important. Therefore, the water bowl should ideally be emptied and refilled twice a day. It’s also advisable to wipe the bowl each time to prevent deposits. If you have a particularly reluctant drinker at home, cat soups from pet stores or a drinking fountain with flowing water can help. Find more assistance here: 7 Tips to Get Cats to Drink More Water.
Clean the Feeding Area
Not only bowls need care–the area where eating takes place should also be kept clean. This prevents germs and insects from settling there and transferring to the food. This is especially important if you know that the animals tend to take their food out of the bowl and eat next to it. These spots can quickly become a place for fly eggs to be deposited.
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Store Food Properly
Opened cans of wet food should go directly into the refrigerator. However, before serving, the food should be brought to room temperature, as cold food is often not favored by cats because it smells less aromatic when cold. Additionally, feeding food that is too cold can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
Dry food, on the other hand, is best kept airtight, cool, and dry. Even though it is less sensitive, direct sunlight should be avoided. Otherwise, taste and texture can change–resulting in the food being rejected.
With material from dpa