The Truth About A Slow Feeder Bowl

If you are noticing that your pet is eating their meals super fast they are either overly hungry or very excited when it is time to eat. If your pet is eating too fast they may also be swallowing large amounts of air and there can be real health dangers involved that should be taken seriously. If your pet is eating too fast then they could possibly choke, vomit, or develop gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) or bloat which is a life threatening condition because the stomach may not be able to relieve itself from gas or food. If your dog starts to dry heave, has sounds of pain; has extensive drooling and panting; or if there is a distended abdomen then you will need to get them to the veterinarian immediately.

How Slow Feeder Bowls Work

The slow feeder bowl has ridges and barriers that make it more challenging for your pet at meal time to access their food quickly. This allows your pet to consume their food in smaller portion sizes allowing their food to digest more effectively and have fewer digestive issues.

Slow feeder bowls are designed with an obstacle course-like interior. Some feeder bowls have ridges and barriers that make it more challenging and forces your pet to eat slowly in order to get to the food. The idea is that by eating more slowly your pet will consume their food in smaller portion sizes and they will not only avoid indigestion but will also savor their meal more.

The Pros and Cons of Slow Feeder Bowls

On the plus side, as we just established, slow feeder bowls can help improve digestion by slowing down the eating process. They can also help pets who tend to bolt their food—that is, eat so quickly they don't really chew—to learn to take their time with meals. And for some pets, the challenge of getting to the food is half the fun!

On the downside, slow feeder bowls are not for every pet. If your pet has dental issues or is prone to gagging, a slow feeder bowl may cause them more discomfort. And if your pet simply isn't interested in the challenge of getting to their food, then the feeder bowl is not for them.

So, what's the verdict? A slow feeder bowl could be helpful with improving your pet's digestion. However, if your pet doesn't seem interested in the challenge of getting their food then a slow feeder bowl is probably not going to be any better than a regular bowl.

Ultimately, it's up to you and your pet to decide whether a slow feeder bowl is right for them.

If you have a pet that you think may need a feeder bowl then click the button below to see which slow feeder bowl that we have reviewed that will be perfect for you and your furry loved one!