Scrub Pet’s Food and Water Bowls Daily

Research shows that bacteria grows at the same rate on bowls made of different materials.

A pet's food and water bowls should be cleaned daily. marialevkina/Shutterstock

Q: A houseguest watched me refill my dog’s food and water bowls without washing them, my usual procedure unless there’s obvious grime on them. She pointed out the slime covering the inside of the water bowl and told me it’s dangerous because the slime harbors bacteria that can cause illness. Is she right? Should I do as she advises and scrub both bowls daily?

A: Yes and yes.