How to Use the Petmate Easy Reach Diner for Senior Cats
By Petmate | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to set up and use the Petmate Easy Reach Diner elevated feeder for your senior cat. This guide covers height adjustment, bowl placement, and cleaning tips to reduce joint strain and improve digestion.
Quick Answer
To use the Petmate Easy Reach Diner for your senior cat, choose the correct height based on your cat's shoulder measurement, assemble the stand securely, and place the bowls at a comfortable angle that lets your cat eat without bending or straining.
Why Elevated Bowls Help Senior Cats
Senior cats often develop arthritis or joint stiffness that makes bending down to floor-level bowls painful. An elevated feeder like the Petmate Easy Reach Diner raises the food and water dishes to a height that reduces strain on the neck, shoulders, and hips. This can encourage older cats to eat and drink more regularly, which is important for maintaining hydration and weight.
The design also helps improve posture and digestion by allowing food to travel more naturally down the esophagus. While any cat can benefit, senior felines with mobility issues see the most noticeable improvement.
Choosing the Right Size and Color
The Petmate Easy Reach Diner comes in multiple sizes to accommodate different pet heights. For a senior cat, the small or medium size is usually appropriate. Measure your cat's shoulder height while standing: the top of the bowl should be roughly at the same level as the lower part of their chest. If your cat is very small or has a short neck, the smallest size may be best.
The product is also available in several colors and styles, so you can pick one that matches your home decor. The non-skid base prevents the feeder from sliding around while your cat eats, which is especially helpful for older cats that may lean on the bowl for support.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
- Measure Your Cat's Shoulder Height: While your cat is standing on all fours, measure from the floor to the top of their shoulder blade. This measurement will guide you in selecting the correct size of the Easy Reach Diner. A common mistake is choosing a size that is too tall, which forces the cat to reach upward instead of downward. The bowl rim should be at or slightly below your cat's chest level, not above it.
- Assemble the Stand on a Flat Surface: Place the stand on a non-slip floor, such as tile or hardwood, and snap the legs into the base. Ensure all four feet are flat and the frame is stable. A common mistake is assembling it on carpet, which can make the stand wobble. The non-skid feet work best on hard surfaces. Test stability by gently pushing the stand from the side before adding bowls.
- Insert the Bowls and Adjust Angle: Place the stainless steel bowls into the designated openings. The Easy Reach Diner allows the bowls to sit at a slight angle, which helps senior cats lap water and food more easily. A common mistake is forcing the bowls into the wrong position—they should sit flush without rattling. The bowls should not slide or spin; if they do, check that the stand is fully assembled.
- Position the Feeder in a Quiet Area: Put the feeder in a location where your cat already feels comfortable eating, away from loud noises, foot traffic, or other pets. A common mistake is placing it near a wall or corner, which can make an older cat feel trapped. Leave enough space for your cat to approach from either side. Your cat should be able to walk up to the feeder without squeezing into a tight spot.
- Monitor Your Cat's First Few Meals: Watch your senior cat use the feeder for the first few days. Some cats may be hesitant to use a new bowl height. You can temporarily place a familiar mat under the feeder to provide a scent cue. A common mistake is expecting immediate acceptance—give your cat time to adjust. If your cat refuses to eat, try placing a small amount of their favorite wet food on the bowl rim to encourage investigation.
Product Details
- Petmate Easy Reach Diner: The Petmate Easy Reach Diner elevated feeder prevents the stooping and discomfort associated with bending down to eat or drink. For a senior cat with joint pain, this means mealtime becomes a comfortable, low-strain activity rather than a painful chore.
Petmate Easy Reach Diner - Petmate Easy Reach Diner: It helps improve a pet's posture and digestion by raising the bowls to a more natural height. Better digestion can reduce vomiting or regurgitation, which is common in older cats with sensitive stomachs.
