Pet feeding habits and the microbiological contamination of dog food bowls: effect of feed type, cleaning method and bowl material.

Background: Safe pet feeding practices and food bowl hygiene measures are important for minimising the risk of microbiological contaminations in the domestic environment. This study compares the practices reported by dog and cat caregivers, and investigates whether cleaning method, feed type or bowl material affects the microbiological contamination of dog food bowls.

Results: Data from 351 dog caregivers and 186 cat caregivers were collected via an online survey.