No, cat food and water bowls should not be placed directly next to each other. It is better to separate a cat’s food and water bowls by a few feet. Cats have an instinctive aversion to food and water sources being too close together.
In nature, bodily waste and dead animals often contaminate water sources located right near food. This instinct has led domestic cats to show a preference for having their food and water bowls in separate spots.
While not absolutely necessary, separating cat food and water bowls helps create a more appealing and comfortable feeding area for cats.
Cat Food and Water Bowl Placement
Should A Cat’s Water Be Away from Food?
Yes, a cat’s water bowl should be placed at least a few feet away from the food bowl. Cats have a natural aversion to food and water sources being too close together. In the wild, cats will usually avoid drinking from water sources located right next to animal carcasses or waste products. This instinct carries over to domestic cats preferring that their food and water come from separate locations. So providing some space between the bowls accommodates this preference.
Do Cats Like Their Water Next to Their Food?
Most cats do not like having their water bowl right next to their food bowl. They prefer the two bowls to be separated by a couple of feet or placed in entirely different rooms. This instinct dates back to cats in the wild avoiding contaminated water sources located directly beside kill sites or waste deposits. Domestic cats retain this inclination to drink water that is not in the immediate vicinity of their food. Having separate areas for food and water bowls creates a layout that is more pleasing and comfortable for cats during mealtimes.
Why Do Cats Not Like Water Near Their Food?
Cats do not like the water near their food because in nature water sources located right next to kills or waste products tend to be contaminated. The remains of prey animals and bodily waste can pollute water collected in close proximity. Cats instinctively avoid drinking from water sources that are very close to food to minimize exposure to parasites, bacteria, and toxins. This instinctual aversion persists in domestic cats, so they prefer their water bowl to be placed at least a few feet away from their food bowl. Separating the bowls caters to this natural preference.
Ideal Places to Put Cat Food and Water Bowls
A Calm and Quiet Location
Cats feel most relaxed eating and drinking in calm, quiet areas without much activity. Choose a spot away from high-traffic areas of the home like hallways, playrooms, or the TV room. Places like a corner of the kitchen, a section of the home office, or a laundry room work well. This allows the cat to eat and drink in peace.
Away From the Litter Box
The food and water bowls should also be located in a separate area from the litter boxes. Cats don’t like eating and drinking too close to their toilet areas. Place the bowls in their own dedicated spot several feet away from any litter boxes. An enclosed porch or quiet basement room are good options.
On an Enclosed Porch
An enclosed or screened-in porch that doesn’t get direct outdoor foot traffic can be an ideal spot for a cat’s food and water. There are minimal disruptions or noises. And the separation from the main living areas provides a nice sense of space. Place the bowls in a corner of the porch away from the door.
In the Basement
A finished or semi-finished basement that doesn’t get a lot of use can work very well for a cat feeding station. The separation from heavy foot traffic and household noise is beneficial. And cats often like to retreat to basement areas. Set up the food and water bowls in a quiet corner of the basement away from appliances, storage areas, and stairs.
On a Raised Feeding Station
Elevated cat feeding stations or tables are a great way to designate an exclusive dining space for your cat. Place the food and water bowls on opposite ends of the platform. Raised stations prevent other pets from stealing food and allow for easy cleaning underneath.
Importance of Proper Cat Food and Water Bowl Placement
Positioning a cat’s food and water bowls in suitable locations:
- Provides separate eating and drinking spaces that appeal to a cat’s natural preferences.
- Avoids food and water contamination by spacing bowls away from litter boxes and high-traffic areas.
- Creates a stress-free and comfortable feeding area.
- Helps shy or intimidated cats feel relaxed and safe at mealtimes.
- Prevents competition from other household pets at the food bowls.
- Allows for proper monitoring of the cat’s appetite and water intake.
- Keeps the cat food aroma from spreading throughout the home.
- Contains mess from spilled food and water in one area for easier cleanup.
Proper placement of a cat’s food and water is important for both behavioral health and physical health. Following some simple guidelines helps create an optimal eating and drinking environment.
