Petmate No Spill Kennel Cup: How to Fit It in Your Crate
By Petmate | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to install the Petmate No Spill Kennel Cup in a wire or plastic crate so your dog always has water without opening the door. Step-by-step fit tips inside.
Quick answer
Mount the Petmate No Spill Kennel Cup on the inside of your crate door or side panel at a height your dog can reach comfortably, then secure it firmly so the bowl stays level. Fill it from outside using the funnel, and always test for stability before travel.
Why placement and stability matter more than the bowl itself
A kennel water bowl only prevents spills if it stays upright and within reach. The No Spill Kennel Cup is designed to work with both wire and plastic kennels, but the mounting method differs. On wire crates, you typically hook or clip the bowl to the bars; on plastic kennels, you may need to use the provided bracket or a cutout. Always follow the included instructions for your specific kennel type.
Height is critical: the bowl rim should be low enough for your dog to drink without straining, but high enough that paws or bedding don’t knock it. For travel, a bowl that sits slightly above the floor of the crate reduces the chance of tipping during motion. Avoid mounting directly above bedding or toys that could interfere with the funnel.
When the No Spill Cup is not the right choice
If your dog is a determined chewer or paw-er, no plastic bowl is indestructible. The No Spill Cup’s funnel and rim are designed to reduce spills, not to withstand aggressive digging. For those dogs, a heavier stainless steel bowl secured with a locking bracket may be more suitable. Also, the cup’s capacity is limited; for very large dogs or long trips, you may need to refill more often or carry a backup water source.
Step-by-step installation
- Choose the mounting location: For wire crates, pick a spot on the door or side panel where the bowl will be level and your dog can reach it easily. For plastic kennels, identify the designated mounting area or use the included bracket. Common mistake: placing the bowl too high or in a corner where your dog cannot comfortably extend its neck. Check that your dog can drink without stretching or crouching awkwardly.
- Attach the cup securely: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your kennel type. On wire crates, hook the cup’s mounting tabs over the bars and press until they snap or tighten. On plastic kennels, use the provided bracket or cutout and secure any screws or clips firmly. Common mistake: leaving the cup loose so it rattles or tips when your dog drinks. Give the cup a gentle tug—it should not slide or wobble.
- Test the funnel and rim: Fill the cup from outside using the funnel. Check that water flows freely and does not overflow the rim. Then watch your dog drink to ensure the bowl height and angle work. Common mistake: overfilling, which can cause water to seep through the funnel opening when the crate moves. Fill only to the indicated line or below the rim to prevent sloshing.
- Secure the cup for travel: Before any car ride or flight, double-check that the cup is locked in place and that the funnel opening is not blocked by the crate door or accessories. If your crate has a swinging door, make sure the cup does not interfere with the door’s movement. Common mistake: forgetting to recheck after loading the crate into a vehicle, as vibration can loosen clips. Do a final stability check every time you load the crate.
Product facts
- Petmate No Spill Kennel Cup: Designed to work universally with both wire and plastic kennels. You can use the same cup across different crate types without buying separate accessories.
Petmate No Spill Kennel Cup - Petmate No Spill Kennel Cup: Features a small funnel that allows refilling from outside the kennel without opening the door. This lets you top up water during travel without risking your pet escaping or letting out climate-controlled air.
- Petmate No Spill Kennel Cup: The No Spill Rim at the top of the bowl helps prevent spills. Less water ends up on the crate floor, keeping your pet drier and reducing cleanup.
