Recently, on All My Children Wear Fur Coats, Debra Mastic highlighted the limitations of conventional pet bowls and explained how the Fluff Trough promotes a more comfortable, health-conscious dining experience for pets.
Debra Mastic is the founder and CEO of Fluff Trough, a company that produces ergonomic feeders for dogs and cats. Debra invented the Fluff Trough to address the mealtime needs of her pug, Pork Chop. Like many pugs, Pork Chop’s facial shape made it difficult for him to eat comfortably from traditional dog bowls. When he was diagnosed with vestibular disease, Pork Chop’s problems worsened, inspiring Debra to 3-D print the first Fluff Trough prototype. After receiving positive feedback from other pet owners, Debra realized her product’s potential. She used the money she was saving to purchase a home to bring Fluff Trough to the market.
Debra discussed the drawbacks associated with conventional pet bowls. She noted that standard pet bowls cause our pets to bend their neck at an unnatural angle, which can result in discomfort and breathing difficulties. Additionally, when our pets eat with a bent neck, their food must travel up their esophagus and against gravity. This may lead to increased bloating and other digestive problems.
Debra explained that dogs and cats evolved to eat from flat surfaces, a behavior that allowed them to keep an eye out for predators and enjoy their meal from multiple angles. The Fluff Trough features a wide, shallow surface, and an open-front design that aligns with what is found in nature. Although the Fluff Trough was originally created for flat-faced dog breeds, its applications are numerous. Debra recalled feedback from early customers who were surprised to find their larger dogs take a liking to the Fluff Trough. This prompted her to create the Fluff Trough XL for larger dog breeds.
The Fluff Trough also addresses whisker fatigue, a problem that is unique to felines. When cats eat from a conventional bowl, their whiskers may press against the sides, resulting in discomfort or overstimulation. The Fluff Trough’s intuitive layout prevents whisker fatigue and minimizes irritation.
Debra discussed the various accessories offered by Fluff Trough, including silicone, stainless steel, and slow-feeder inserts. She assured our listeners that all Fluff Trough products are freezer and dishwasher safe, crafted with FDA-approved materials. Debra informed us that, since the surfaces of the Fluff Trough are non-porous, they are even safe to use with raw foods. In addition to these inserts, Fluff Trough boasts an attachable licking mat, and a lift kit to adjust your trough to the perfect height.
Debra now operates her company full-time from her RV, while travelling around the country. She donates a portion of her proceeds to animal rescues and donates her products to animals in foster care. The Fluff Trough has helped many pets enjoy a greater quality of life, just like it helped Pork Chop.
If you would like view Fluff Trough’s full product line, or to find a store near you, visit FluffTrough.com. Check out Fluff Trough on social media at Facebook.com/FluffTrough
Please protect your pet with a Pet Trust! Visit ACT4Pets.org for more information.
