Does your cat drink enough water? What’s enough water to begin with? Tired of cleaning and refilling bowls with fresh water cause hair floated into it or your fur ball dropped bits of food in it?
If you answered yes then a cat drinking fountain is the right choice for you. Not only do they encourage your cat to drink more by giving them a moving water supply, but they also filter the water to keep nasty impurities out.
There are loads of drinking fountains on the market, so let’s take a look at the best cat drinking fountains out there.
The Catit Water Fountain is a kind of like a unicorn, minus the coloring. It is the best in class, but it is the best in class across a variety of different areas of interest. It performs well in pricing, noise, ease of use for humans, variety of options for cats and in quality too.
Catit is also known to be an awesome company when it comes to customer service which is an added perk when it comes to any product. This is honestly one of the best cat fountains on the market and my personal favorite.
Accounting for everything I think this is an excellent product and you can’t go wrong with the purchase. Features worth noting:
It encouraged both of my cats to drink on a more consistent basis.
It comes in at a great low price of just under 30 dollars.I
t is super quiet compared to most fountains so long as the water level stays topped off.
It has a large tank that doesn’t need to be refilled often.
It is very easy to take apart and clean on a weekly basis.
Saves you from refilling bowls daily or from running a dripping faucet depending on the cat.
"This fountain does an absolutely amazing job in my home. Both of my cats drink way more often than they used to and it is a breeze to clean it when it needs it."
The only negative item I've noted in my experience is this:
Once in a while the filters start to heavily slow the flow of water and it can stagnate on the top. I've drilled a few extra holes in the green plastic filter holder to let water flow more freely.
This is one of the newest entrants to the market and it comes from Miaustore. This model is an absolute must have if you're looking for a ceramic fountain. Not only is it beautiful, but it has everything you'd want as a cat owner and as a cat too!
Let's take a look at some of the most coveted functions:
It has a whopping 8 different drinking areas available.
It is whisper quiet and will not keep you or your pets awake.
It has a comprehensive video guide available to help you configure it!
All ceramic pieces are 100% dishwasher friendly making cleaning it a breeze.
You can add on a mini pot of cat grass (grow some yourself!) as a special addition.
Comes in 5 beautiful different colors, each hand fired in Europe.
Has an optional motion sensor to only flip on when your cat comes near it.
"It’s a lovely thing – very zen! The cats drink out of it from all the different levels and don’t splash water everywhere as with the more open bowls. Also the filter is much simpler than other fountains, and easy to clean Overall I’m very pleased with the fountain." -Miaustore Reviewer Linda
The only drawback I can find at all, and this applies to US customers, is that shipping time can be quite long due to it being manufactured in and shipped from Europe.:
PetSafe has been around the block and back when it comes to developing high quality pet products. They’ve been around for 37 years at the time of writing this article. That means they know a thing or two about creating a high quality product.
This pump comes loaded with all sorts of great features worth noting:
It has a capacity of 128 oz. (3.78 L) which is great for multiple cats.
You’ve got 5 changeable free-falling streams attachments to provide options to get your cat to drink.
This has a two part filter, a replaceable carbon filter to removes tastes and odors and a foam filter to remove hair and debris.
It also has an adjustable flow control cap so you can slow it down or speed it up if your cat is extra picky.
The plastic is BPA-Free and the fountain is top-shelf dishwasher safe.
A pump can be purchased separately if it happens to break.
Also note it doesn’t require a filter to operate if you don’t want to buy them.
"My cats love this thing. I bought this the day I found it (over 5 years ago) and it is still working to this date. If you clean it and keep the filters cycled it'll run forever!"
The key drawback worth noting on this model:
This model runs quite loud compared to other models.
PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Dog and Cat Water Fountain, Ceramic, 70 oz
This ceramic fountain uses a quiet pump to push the water up and out of two streams at the top of the pump. The foam filter removes debris and hair and the activated carbon filter removes any bad tastes and odor from the water.
The water in your pet’s Pagoda fountain is constantly moving, inhibiting the growth of bacteria while also encouraging your pet to drink more.
Dual free-falling streams add oxygen for freshness and encourage pets to drink more water.
It has a carbon water filter that removes bad tastes and odors, keeping water fresh.
This model is ceramic and thus more hygienic than plastic models.
This is an excellent option for a single cat since it has an overall capacity of 70 oz.
There are both an upper and lower location to drink from.
Nice and easy to clean since it is top shelf dishwasher safe.
It can also be run without a filter in case you’re using filtered water already.
"Works great for my adult cat (12 pounds) and my brand new kitten (2 pounds)! They both love it!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
The pump can sometimes have difficulty with pulling water through the carbon filter. You can remove the filter to resolve this problem, but it does expose the pump to jams.
The Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain is a100% BPA free & dishwasher safe. The rubber feet keep it from sliding around wood floors too!
The fountain features a huge built in reservoir, 168 oz. in total. This means it doesn’t require refills on a daily basis like some smaller capacity models. The pump is an adjustable flow pump so you can figure out the right speed to keep your cats interested in the fountain.
A few key items worth noting
The plastic the fountain is made from is BPA Free.
The fountain is 100% dishwasher safe.
The pump has an adjustable flow to slow things down or speed them up.
It has a huge reservoir size at 168 oz.
Has a built in pre-filter to help maintain the integrity of the pump, but note you can’t replace the pump.
Uses a carbon filter to keep the water clean for your cat(s).
"This fountain lasts forever. I've had mine for years! With proper maintenance you'll probably never need another fountain.
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
This model can be a bit of a hassle to deconstruct and clean each time.
Mospro is a less known name in the cat product industry, but wow have they made their mark with this fountain. And for good reason too, this fountain is worth raving about. It definitely has some of the best reviews of any fountain I've managed to find online. People are a fan no matter where you look at it!
That aside, there are tons of great features and functions worth calling out:
It has a solid 2 liter capacity which is plenty for a single cat for about a week before the pump starts to run low.
It is constructed of antibacterial PP resin and the bowl is BPA-free, non-toxic and odorless. It even has a food-grade certification to show you how safe it is!
It is built so you can quickly deconstruct it to clean it and reconstruct it after.
The pump is incredibly quiet and you’ll hardly hear the sound of the water.
The pump is tested to run up to a total of 10,000 hours and it can even run dry for up to one week in case you forget to refill it.
There are 3 different settings for the water: waterfall, bubble and fountain mode.
The recessed sink and water circulation system are designed to increase the contact area of water and air, and provide more oxygen to the water, bringing health and vitality to pets.
To ensure you have odorless and tasteless water it uses replaceable activated carbon filters.
Given design this model can run without the carbon filter, but since the carbon and mesh filters are combined be careful of damaging the pump as debris from your pets gets in the water .
"Such an amazing addition to the house. We keep it right in the bedroom for our cats at night and it is so quiet we hardly even notice it."
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
Some owners have had difficulty with the pump lifetime.
Pedy Cat has followed a tried and true method in creating their own version of the cat water fountain. This fountain looks very similar to that made by Catit and in general the features are very similar as well. This model comes in a bit cheaper than the Catit version which is the key differentiator
Key features and functions worth noting:
It has a total capacity of 2L which is about 68 oz. You’ll be refilling it once a week or so to ensure the noise level stays low and the pump doesn’t dry out.
Other similar models can end up overflowing if the filter hasn’t been changed, this model has multiple overflow holes to ensure drainage.
The fountain is made of antibacterial PP plastic and is BPA free. It has a food-grade certification to gain your confidence.
The pump is ultra quiet and is expected to operate for 20,000 hrs.
It is super easy to deconstruct it and hand wash each part with dish soap. It can be done in less than ten minutes.
It has a multi stage filter to remove sediment and debris, as well as remove tastes, odors and toxins.
You can run this model without the filter if you’d like, but the pump will be more susceptible to damage.
"It looks adorable and it was easy as pie to put it together! The cats love it."
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
This model causes more splashing than the Catit option and it may soak your floor.
Pioneer Pet Raindrop Stainless Steel Pet Drinking Fountain
The Pioneer Pet Raindrop Stainless Steel Fountain designed with one key feature in mind, it is made of stainless steel. If you don’t like the idea of your cat drinking from plastic then this is a huge perk.
Stainless steel is safer int that it isn’t porous so it can’t harbor bacteria as easily as plastic. The second important features is that this doesn’t provide the waterfall or the human drinking fountain type water supply. Instead it uses a water slide.
If your kitty likes a gentle flow this a great option that is also very sanitary.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind though, the fountain has a pretty low water capacity. While it won’t necessarily run out of water quickly it will end up making a lot more noise as the amount of water in the fountain gets lower and lower.
The open design allows lots of hair and other things floating through the air into the filter, but if you clean it consistently this won’t be a problem.
It has a capacity of 60oz of water & uses a charcoal filter to keep the water clean
Stainless steel is 100% dishwasher safe & more sanitary than plastic
It provides a nice gentle flow of water as opposed to falling water like many other pumps
It is a great looking water fountain compared to plastic
There are two available drinking areas for your cats to ensure they have options available to them
If the pump breaks you can buy a replacement
"Stainless is the way to go. You can throw this thing right in the dish washer and save the hassle of hand washing it!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
The way the wires are connected to the pump motor causes them to crimp and snap. The more frequently you clean it the more likely this becomes a problem.
The Pioneer Pet Raindrop Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain is a high quality fountain designed with a few features in mind. It is made of ceramic namely. This is benefit to folks who dislike plastic.
Ceramic is safer because it isn’t as porous as plastic. This means it can’t harbor bacteria which means it is less likely to get your little fur ball sick.
The second major feature is it uses a slide instead of a full on waterfall. The water shoot out like a human drinking fountain. This means if you’ve got a cat that likes a gentle flow instead of splashing or falling water this is the fountain for you.
It also comes in both black and white if you want to match decor.
It has a total capacity of 60 oz. of water
Ceramic is dishwasher safe so it is very easy to keep it clean
It provides a nice gentle flow of water as opposed to falling water like many other pumps
It is a great looking water fountain given that it isn’t traditional plastic, it has a sheen on it
There are two areas to drink from for your feline friend
A broken pump can be replaced without buying a whole new water fountain
"After over 5 years of owning cat fountains and going through over at least 10 I can honestly say this is the best one I've used!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
Given the lower capacity you can easily end up burning the motor out if
The Cat Mate Water Fountain is a great choice among the plastic fountains on the market. It has a special pump design called the Isolated Pump System which keeps the pump as quiet as possible. The IPS is the highlight of the model.
The second feature is giving your feline friends multiple drinking locations. There are three pools the slides between them. This ensures that even cats with different preferences will have options.
Key items worth noting on this drinking fountain:
The pump is one of the quietest on the market being an IPS – perfect for small homes or apartments
Drinking areas at three different heights mean lots of options for your cats
The plastic bowls are 100% dishwasher safe so you disinfect them often and easily
The pump has adjustable flow, perfect for picky cats
It is very affordable and replacement filters are affordable
It has an extra-long power cord (10 ft) which is a perk
You can buy a replacement pump without replacing the whole fountain
"Although you do have to clean it on a very consistent basis it is definitely one of the best fountains I have owned for my little princess!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
The open nature of this fountain makes it easy for things to grow in it, constant cleaning is a necessity.
This is Uniclife’s flagship model for cat and dog water fountains, as I’m sure you can see from the photo above. You might also note that it is on the smaller side. This model is great for single cat households and works will for kittens because it sits much lower than many other models do.
Many models sit as high as 8 inches which can be very difficult for a young kitten to reach, this model is only about 4 inches tall meaning the bowl sits right near the ground and can be easily accessed.
A few other features worth noting:
This version is much more like a human drinking fountain than many other options, it actually has a jet of water pumping out. This makes water fresh, clean and better tasting. And the movement of the water encourages cats to drink more.
There is an adjustable flow control to increase or decrease the speed of the water pumping out. The blue LED in the water area makes it easier for your pet to find the water at night and ensure you don’t trip over it.
It is made of high BPA free plastic that is food grade meaning it is nontoxic and odorless.
A dual layer filter uses carbon to extract bad tastes and odors while foam catches hair and debris to ensure the pump isn’t damaged.
It has a 60oz water capacity which is great for a couple kittens or a single adult cat for about a week.
"I'm happy as a clam with this purchase. All you hear is a gentle flow of water when it is running!"
PetSafe Drinkwell 2 Gallon Dog and Cat Water Fountain
If you’ve got a multi pet household, especially one with dogs and cats, then this is an excellent model for you. Not only is the capacity huge, but because the capacity is huge it is also very difficult for even large animals to accidentally knock it over or tip it and spill the water.
Petsafe knows that tons of families have this multi pet situation and they wanted to ensure there was an option that could accommodate all the pets easily. Let’s look at the detailed features:
The capacity is 256 oz (7.5 liters) which is huge and will easily support multiple cats or cat/dog households.
The water fall helps encourage your cats to drink more and helps infuse more oxygen into the water as it falls.
The water flow can be adjusted to enable you to customize the speed for your pets. It is made of BPA free plastic and you can easily deconstruct it for cleaning.
It is specifically designed to not have difficult to reach corners and crevices meaning faster cleaning too.
Foam filter catches hair and dirt before they reach the pump, and the constant water circulation in the bowl helps prevent bacteria growth.
"By far the best option on the market if you've got numerous pets in the house and any of them are HUGE!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
Because of the gigantic size it can be a pain to clean it. It won't fit in many smaller sinks.
If you’ve got a specific location you need to place your fountain in but it doesn’t have a plug available then you might need a battery operated option. This is the only battery operated fountain on the market so it would be your go to.
I would note that this is a newer product to the market and so far it has had some hiccups that need to be fixed before it will be as reliable as plug driven models. That being said if you need a battery operated model this is your best option.
Key items worth noting:
It requires 4 D batteries to operate, battery life is hard to predict given the variations in battery brands and types
It has a 75 oz. capacity which is plenty for a cat for a week
The pump pushes water from the reservoir up to the top and it then falls through the tube in the middle and into the pool below
To conserve power it only pumps water about every 20 minutes (keep in mind this limits filtering/movement)
Two different types of water flow and two different locations encourage
Lid allows water to pool at the top, creating a secondary drinking location
"If you don't have a power plug available and you need a fountain this is pretty much the only option out there. It fits a very specific need."
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
This product does not run constantly. It isn't meant to. It only runs every once in a while to cycle water which may not be a good fit for your cat.
If you have a need to provide a water source in a location without a plug and you don’t want to try a battery operated model then this is a solid tried and tested option. While this was originally designed for dogs it is a viable option for cats.
Note that it is more of a bowl than a fountain. It won’t constantly cycle water nor will it consistently filter it. This is an option for those of you that might not have other options given the situation you’re in. Basically, as water is consumed more water comes out from the covered area into the bowl.
Key things worth noting:
It has a solid capacity for a single cat at about 2 liters (68 oz)
It is travel friendly and you can easily take it with you if your cat is going on a tripIt maintains limited water in the bowl to decrease the amount of water that might get dirty
You can easily flip the closure switch, dump dirty water out of it, and flip it again for new clean water to flow out
It is very low to the ground meaning it is difficult to flip over or tip
"If you're going on a trip with your cat it is a great and easy option to work with."
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
It doesn't have a constant flow of water like a traditional fountain would.
iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain, Water Fountains for Cats 2.1
iPettie brings their own ceramic model to the market and you’ll definitely notice some similarities to the YOUTHINK model above. The filters and the pump are largely interchangeable because the products are so similar, but they are sold by two different companies at different price points.
The main difference you’ll likely encounter with them is just customer service and since both of them sell through Amazon you’ll likely not have any issues if you run into a broken product.
Key features worth noting:
This fountain is made of high-quality natural ceramic that is completely non-toxic.
It has a 2.1L/71oz capacity which is enough for a cat to drink for about a week before you’ll want to top it off to ensure the pump doesn’t get noisy.
There are three free-falling streams of water that will help oxygen to the water which promotes overall health.
There’s a two stage filter system, the first stage is a foam filter to remove hair and debris.
The second phase is a carbon and charcoal filter that removes nasty odors and bad tastes from the water.
The pump is whisper quiet so the only noise you’re likely to hear is the water dripping into the reservoir, keeping it topped off minimizes this.
It is super easy to assemble and disassemble for cleaning and maintenance
"Got my old kitty to start drinking again which was a huge relief since she had stopped drinking from her tall water glass!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
Replacement filters for this model run on the expensive side so overall cost is high.
PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat Water Fountain,100 oz
Another great model from PetSafe, this is the multi tiered drink well! It easily accommodates multi pet households with its huge reservoir (100 oz) and varying locations to drink from. It has a huge open area of water too which is a nice perk in the case that the power happens to go out.
Key features worth noting on this model:
The 100 oz. water capacity is great for numerous pets including both cats and dogs.
The free-falling stream entices your feline friends to drink and the little ramp minimizes the amount of spray and sound from the water coming down.
It does leverage a carbon water filter to clean out tastes and odors which is great for picky cats.
There are 3 drinking areas, the upper and lower dishes and the actual waterfall itself too.
The pump is submersible (and you’ll want it submersed) and provides a very quiet experience.
This model is safe for the dishwasher, top shelf only.
The plastic it is made from is BPA free to keep your kitty safe and sound from toxins!This model can be run without the carbon filter if desired.
"The cats love it and it is SO easy to clean because it is dishwasher safe. It comes right out of the dishwasher and back to work!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
If you don't have a dishwasher available this model can be frustrating to clean by hand.
Vemtona Smart Cat 2L Ultra Silent Water Dispenser With Alerts
(No Image Currently Available – Click Below to see it)
Bet you never thought you’d hear the phrase ‘high tech drinking fountain’ right? Well, now you have. Vemtona has brought to bear the most tech enabled water fountain on the market and it has tons of cool features and functions to help keep your kitty hydrated.
So let’s dig right into them:
If there’s a water shortage that could damage the pump it will automatically power off and light up a blue light to let you know.
When the filter need to be replaced the filter replacement indicator will light up yellow to remind you.
The pump is ultra quiet so you’ll barely hear it running.
The pump is estimated to operate a total of 10,000 hours.
It has a 2L capacity which is about 68 oz, this is plenty for about a week with a single cat before you’ll want to refill it.
It is made of food-grade materials and is BAP-free to keep your feline friends safe.
High quality filters purifies and softens hard water and simultaneously filters hair, sediments and impurities.
The odors of the water can be eliminated and the taste will be improved, taking good care of your beloved pets.
"If you're looking for a tech savvy cat fountain then this is it!"
It is worth considering the following before purchasing:
Pump lifetime has been noted by many as a significant concern with this model.
This product is no longer available and neither are the replacement filters. Kept here at the bottom of the list for continuity purposes.
This ceramic model is produced by YOUTHINK. While the name of the company could use some rethinking they do produce an excellent ceramic water fountain. There are several features worth noting:
It is made of high quality natural ceramic, both eco-friendly and non-toxic. Note both the white and blue pieces are ceramic.
There are 3 different ways your kitties can drink from it: from the top, the falling water, or in the bottom the always available pool.
There is a two phase filtering system built in, a foam filter cleans hair and gunk while a carbon filter purifies the water.
You can barely hear the water flow with the silent submersible water pump.
The pump is tested and expected to work up to 20,000 hours.
You’ve got a capacity of 2.1 liters which is quite large for a single cat and will last several days even with multiple cats.
Water consumption is important because dehydration can cause health issues in a cat just like it can in a human. On top of this cats don’t have a sense of thirst like humans do. This means they don’t tend to go out of their way to drink like we do.
Dehydration can cause all sorts of health issues from minor problems all the way to potentially deadly issues. The most common are kidney issues and urinary tract issues which can be incredibly painful and difficult to get rid of.
The short of it is that you’ll want to ensure your cat drinks plenty of water to keep them healthy! You can read more details about that here.
Many things factor into how much capacity you’ll need, but the primary items are your environment and how much your cat drinks on a daily basis.
Most vets recommend somewhere between 8-10 oz. of water per day. Now if your cat is eating wet food that amount comes down because they are getting moisture from the wet food already. If you want to dig into the guts of it you can read in this article that covers the specifics on how much water a cat should drink daily.
But a simple calculation of 10oz a day will tell you that a 70 oz capacity fountain will last about a week with limited interaction from the humans. That’s of course assuming you get little to no evaporation from your environment which is a poor assumption.
Basically, if you want minimal interaction, say weekly, you’ll want over 100 oz of capacity for a single cat. I personally don’t mind topping off my fountain on a daily basis, it is easy with just a cup of water. But you’ll want to judge this yourself and choose a model accordingly.
Changing the filter will depend on many factors, but you willneed to change the filter on a relatively consistent basis. The major items that factor in will be:
Model Design: Open models with large pools of water tend to get more floating hair and debris in them and the filter has to filter it out.
Number of Cats: The more cats the dirtier your fountain will get. This is due to both hair floating in the air and them drinking from it.
Type of Water Used: If you use distilled or filtered water already this will minimize the stress on the filter, but using really hard water or well water for example may require more consistent filter changes.
If you’re not sure how to figure out when to change the filter you should just be able to take a look at it every week or two and tell pretty easily. The filters will turn gross color wise and they will just feel slimy and nasty on the outside.
If you don’t change the filter it is unlikely to harm your cats in the short term, but the longer it goes the filthier the water tends to get. This is true even if you keep adding totally clean water.
While the filter does a good job it only filters the water before it gets pumped back to the top of the fountain. This means all sorts of other gook and debris float around in the tank for a period of time and they can contaminate the water in non visible ways.
On top of this the pump itself can get contaminated and things can start to grow on it and in it if the filter isn’t changed.
Changing the filter and cleaning your cat’s fountain go hand in hand. It should go without saying that you’ll have to clean it on a pretty consistent basis. If you need to change the filter you should probably clean the pump.
I personally thoroughly clean my entire fountain, pump included, every two weeks. I just do it every other Saturday for the sake of ease. It only takes 10 minutes and it ensures it doesn’t get disgusting.
Cleaning it out should be a straight forward process, but every model is a little different. These are the generic steps I use to clean mine:
Deconstruct the fountain & separate the filter & motor from the other parts
Wash the basin & distributors with a non abrasive cleaner (dish soap is fine)
If the filter contains too much gunk (cat hair and such) then you should replace it
If the pump appears dirty then open it and clean it with a cotton swab and a pair of tweezers
Be extra careful with the pump motor because it is fragile and some of them can’t be replaced easily
Reconstruct the fountain and fill it with water before turning it back on
Note some models you can’t get directly to the motor and some you can’t open the motor up even if you can get to it. These directions
Ceramic fountains have been around for a few years now, but they are not nearly as common as plastic fountains. This is for a few reasons, but the primary reason is ceramic costs more to make and it is heavier so more costly to ship.
That being said there are a few benefits worth noting for owners and cats alike:
Ceramic will not scratch easily: Plastics can scratch and dent quite easily and this lets bacteria seep into them. Ceramic doesn’t have this issue.
Ceramic looks excellent: Ceramics tend to have a beautiful reflective sheen to them that most plastics simply don’t. If you’re looking to match decor ceramic can be an excellent choice.
Ceramic is 100% dishwasher safe: Ceramics are dishwasher safe. They can withstand super hot temperatures and not melt like some plastics. This is great for deep cleans and disinfecting your fountain.
Stainless Steel fountains have become more and more prominent in the last few years. There are a couple of key reasons for this:
Stainless Steel is not a porous material: Many plastics can absorb things that flow through them, in particular bacteria. This can be dangerous for your cats, especially if you’re not on top of cleaning your water fountain on a consistent basis.
Stainless Steel isn’t produced with toxic chemicals:Plastics used for anything pet related have significantly changed in the past few years and it is rare to find any with toxins, but using stainless is an additional level of safety.
Stainless Steel looks great: It has a beautiful shine to it and it is easy to wash and clean any blemishes with dish soap.
Stainless is 100% dishwasher safe: You can disinfect it using any dishwasher of any temperature and not risk damaging it at all.
Stainless Steel is durable: Cats and dogs can be rambunctious and it is easy for a fountain to get tipped over when they are having fun. Stainless steel is unlikely to chip, flake, shatter, etc. The worst you might get is a dent.
There’s nothing particularly dangerous about letting your cat use the sink to get a drink of water, but it does have other potential drawbacks.
First and foremost if you want your cat to use the sink for moving water you’ll have to approach it one of a couple ways:
You’ll need to be there to turn the faucet on
You’ll need to get a faucet adapter and train your cat to use it
You’ll need to leave your faucet on a constant drip so your cat always has access
I’m not a fan of any of the methods above for numerous reasons. I want my cats to have access to water all the time so that knocks out the first one.
I don’t want to waste a ton of water by letting it drip all day all night and have my cats take a drink 2 minutes of the day. That knocks out the third one.
Faucet Adapters are actually really cool and slick products, but they require quite a bit of know how to setup and they also can’t be moved or relocated. You’re also going to have to let your cats have free range of your counters if you want to use this method.
I don’t really like my cats up on my counters because they are prone to accidentally (or worse purposely) knock things over. That and in the kitchen especially I’d prefer to avoid having their paws up in places where I prepare food.
Given this I prefer a dedicated place just for the cats, a fountain fits the bill perfectly for me!
Most of the pumps I’ve listed will use what has become the go to form of filter technology, a carbon filter with a mesh netting surrounding it. The mesh netting is used to catch all sorts of gunk and debris before it ever makes it to the pump.
This part of the filter is imperative to ensure normal pump operation. Filtering out cat hair, food bits and anything else that falls into the fountain will make sure your pump doesn’t get jammed and break.
The other aspect to these filters is charcoal. Charcoal absorbs toxins can be ingested by cats with no ill effects. You’ll even hear of it being used in tablet form to remove impurities from the human body.
In water fountains it removes odors and tastes from the water. Given how picky some cats are this could be a necessity for you and your cat. While carbon filters vary in size, shape and quality they typically last somewhere in the area of 4-8 weeks before a change.
Note there are some fountains out there that only have the mesh/foam type of filter that stops things from getting to the pump. I personally wouldn’t recommend only this type of filter, but if your cat already drinks the water out of your tap it might work just fine.
Potential Spills
Given that cats tend to get the zoomies (they run all over the place) from time to time there’s a chance that your fountain may get knocked over. If you’ve got kids in the house or a dog this is just as likely.
You might want to put your fountain in a tray with a one inch lip around the edge. This will help minimize the amount of spillage if the fountain does get tipped over for any reason.
Surge Protectors
You might want to ensure your fountain is plugged into a surge protector. This is especially true if this is your only source of water for your cats and you plan to leave them for any period of time.
Many fountains provide no standing water surface for cleanliness so if the power surges and blows the pump your cats simply can’t get to the water. A surge protector can help protect against this and ensure that when the power comes back on your kitties have accessible water.
Most people aren’t really familiar with the fact that cats aren’t prone to drink much water. Because we humans have a thirst drive we mostly assume other animals do as well and that their body will just let them know they need to drink more.
I’m lucky that in my volunteering and in my research on keeping my cats healthy I discovered this pretty early on in cat ownership. My cat Beastling really doesn’t tend to drink much water at all unless it comes from a moving sources.
If I hadn’t found that out she might still only be taking a few laps of water a day from the bowl we had for her. While wet food will definitely help fill some of the gap it isn’t going to fill your cat’s entire need for water every day.
Given this a pet water fountain is an awesome alternative for your feline friends. Not only does it filter the water and keep it cleaner than a traditional bowl, but most cats are far more prone to drink from a moving source too.
More water consumption means better overall health for your fur ball, although it does mean you have to scoop more litter!
Do you use a drinking fountain for your cat? Do you have a favorite or a recommendation that I didn’t include in my list ? If you have any other ideas for please leave a comment below or send me an email at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com so I can update this article.
StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Pioneer Pet Raindrop Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain Product Overview:
The Pioneer Pet Raindrop Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain is a high quality fountain designed with a couple of specific features in mind, beyond the basic one of ensuring your cat drinks more water.
This particular model is made of ceramic instead of plastic or even stainless steel like the other Pioneer Pet Product of an almost identical name. This is a huge benefit to folks who are against using plastic in anything related to their pets or themselves.
Ceramic is far safer material in that it is 100% dishwasher safe and also isn’t porous as many forms of plastic are which ensures it doesn’t stain as easy or harbor bacteria.
The second major feature to keep in mind is that this fountain is designed with more of a slide than what you might have seen with other fountains. The water does not drop over a fall or shoot out like a human drinking fountain which is another key difference from many fountains in the market place. This means if you’ve got a cat that likes a gentle flow instead of splashing or falling water this is the fountain for you.
One last perk, this particular model comes in both black and white ceramic which is a nice perk for those of you looking to match decor.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind though, the fountain has a pretty low water capacity. While it won’t run out of water quickly it will end up making a lot more noise as the amount of water in the fountain gets lower and lower.
It is also worth noting that the design doesn’t do the best job of keeping hair and other things floating through the air out of the pump. If you clean the fountain consistently though this shouldn’t be a huge problem. I’ve linked a video on cleaning the pump.
Note there is a stainless steel version of this fountain if you like the look of Stainless more than black or white ceramic. If you’re interested in the stainless version you can also read my full review of it here.
The Pros:
Ceramic is 100% dishwasher safe & considered far more sanitary than plastic, a big perk compared to most pumps
It provides a nice gentle flow of water as opposed to falling water like many other pumps
It is a great looking water fountain given that it isn’t traditional plastic, it has a sheen on it
There are two available drinking areas for your cats so they’ve got multiple options, cats love options
If the pump happens to go (they all do eventually) you can buy a replacement without replacing the whole fountain
Uses a charcoal filter to keep the water clean for your cat(s) to ensure they stay healthy and happy
The Cons:
The fountain is relatively low capacity (60oz) so it requires constant refills meaning you can’t leave it for extended periods
If the water gets low it vibrates and makes a lot of noise (this is true for most pumps) which can be frustrating in a smaller home
There isn’t an adjustable flow control built into the pump so what you get is what you get
Tips for Best Usage:
Be sure to top off the fountain with water on a daily basis or every other day at the least or it will start to vibrate
Giving the fountain a deep clean every two weeks or so is highly recommended, I’d recommend a dish washer if you have one
You’ll want to place a tray or mat under it to catch splashes from your furballs so your floor doesn’t get soaked
The pump itself will need to be deconstructed and cleaned out every other week to keep it working well
Frequently Asked Questions:
How often do you have to refill it?
This is hard to guess and depends on your environment & the number of cats you have. If possible I would suggest topping it off daily.
This is not a product you’d want to buy if you’re assuming you can leave your cats at home for several days alone.
Is it noisy?
The product is not noisy if it is kept full, but it does have a low capacity and will start to vibrate as the water runs low.
Is it dish washer safe?
Yes, the product is made of Ceramicsl which is 100% dishwasher safe, a nice perk compared to plastic pumps.
How often do you have to clean it?
I’d recommend pouring all the water out and replacing it once a week.
I’d recommend a deep clean every two weeks at the least.
This will help maintain the integrity of the pump and also decrease the chances of anything nasty getting in the fountain.
How often do I have to replace the filters?
You’ll need to replace the filters about ever 3-4 weeks. You can find the replacements here.
The Pioneer Pet Raindrop Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain is one fountain among a huge playing field fountains. The key differentiator for this product is that it is made of ceramic as opposed to plastic like most of the fountains out there on the market today.
Not only does ceramic look nicer than traditional plastic, but it also does so while minimizing issues that come from plastic fountains like allergies & BPAs. If you’re specifically against plastics being used for pets this is a wonderful choice to consider.
Do you have a water fountain for your cats? If so, do you prefer ceramic, stainless steel, or maybe plastic?
Please leave a comment below or email me directly at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com if you have any thoughts to add to this article.
StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Pioneer Pet Raindrop Stainless Steel Pet Drinking Fountain Product Overview:
The Pioneer Pet Raindrop Stainless Steel Pet Drinking Fountain is a high quality fountain designed with a couple of specific features in mind, beyond the basic one of ensuring your cat drinks more water.
First and foremost the product is made of stainless steel instead of plastic like many of the fountains out there these days. This is a huge benefit to folks who are against using plastic in anything related to their pets or themselves.
Stainless steel is considered a far more ‘safe’ material in that it is 100% dishwasher safe and also isn’t porous as many forms of plastic are which ensures it doesn’t stain as easy or harbor bacteria. If you’re a worry wort when it comes to germs this is a model for you!
The second major feature to keep in mind is that this fountain is designed with more of a slide than what you might have seen with other fountains. The water does not drop over a fall or shoot out like a human drinking fountain which is another key difference from many fountains in the market place. This means if you’ve got a cat that likes a gentle flow instead of splashing or falling water this is the fountain for you.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind though, the fountain has a pretty low water capacity. While it won’t necessarily run out of water quickly it will end up making a lot more noise as the amount of water in the fountain gets lower and lower. This can be frustrating in smaller homes or apartments where you don’t feel like having to refill a fountain constantly.
It is also worth noting that the design doesn’t do the best job of keeping hair and other things floating through the air out of the pump. If you clean the fountain consistently though this shouldn’t be a huge problem.
Note there is a ceramic version of this product if you want something that looks nicer than plastic, but you don’t like stainless steel. If you’re interested in the ceramic version you can also read my full review of it here
The Pros:
Stainless steel is 100% dishwasher safe & considered far more sanitary than plastic for anyone that prefers it
It provides a nice gentle flow of water as opposed to falling water like many other pumps
It is a great looking water fountain, I personally love the look of clean stainless and prefer it over any plastic from an aesthetic standpoint
Another benefit of a stainless steel fountain is there are no concerns about BPAs in the plastic
There are two available drinking areas for your cats to ensure they have options available to them
If the pump happens to go (they all do eventually) you can buy a replacement without replacing the whole fountain
Uses a charcoal filter to keep the water clean for your cat(s)
The Cons:
The fountain is relatively low capacity (60oz) so it requires constant refills and you can’t leave it for long periods of time
If the water gets low it vibrates and makes a lot of noise (this is true for most pumps)
There isn’t an adjustable flow control built into the pump so what you get is what you get, if your cats don’t like it too bad
Tips for Best Usage:
Be sure to top off the fountain with water on a daily basis or every other day at the least otherwise it will start to vibrate
Giving the fountain a deep clean every two weeks or so is highly recommended, I’d recommend a dish washer if you have one
You’ll want to place a tray or mat under it to catch splashes from your furballs so your floor doesn’t get soaked
The pump itself will need to be deconstructed and cleaned out every other week or so to keep it working well
Frequently Asked Questions:
How often do you have to refill it?
This is hard to guess and depends on your environment & the number of cats you have. If possible I would suggest topping it off daily.
This is not a product you’d want to buy if you’re assuming you can leave your cats at home for several days alone.
Is it noisy?
The product is not noisy if it is kept full, but it does have a low capacity and will start to vibrate as the water runs low.
Is it dish washer safe?
Yes, the product is made of Stainless Steel which is 100% dishwasher safe.
How often do you have to clean it?
I’d recommend pouring all the water out and replacing it once a week.
I’d recommend a deep clean every two weeks at the least.
This will help maintain the integrity of the pump and also decrease the chances of anything nasty getting in the fountain.
How often do I have to replace the filters?
You’ll need to replace the filters about ever 3-4 weeks. You can find the replacements here.
The Pioneer Pet Raindrop Stainless Steel Pet Drinking Fountain is one fountain among a huge playing field fountains. The key differentiator for this product is that it is made of stainless steel as opposed to plastic like most of the fountains out there on the market today. Not only does stainless look really nice, but it also does so while minimizing issues that come from plastic fountains like allergies & BPAs etc.
Do you have a water fountain for your cats? If so, do you prefer stainless steel to plastic?
Please leave a comment below or email me directly at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com if you have any thoughts to add to this article.
StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The Cat Mate Water Fountain is a great choice among the plastic fountains on the market. It has a couple of key features that are really worth highlighting.
The product has a special pump design called the Isolated Pump System aimed at keeping the pump as quiet as possible so it won’t scare your cats or keep you awake at night. The IPS is the highlight of the model, it is so quiet it can be kept in your bedroom at night and not be a bother.
The second major design feature is focused on giving your cats multiple options for drinking. There are the three pools and slides between each of the pools, all fully accessible. This ensures that even if your cats have varying preferences they’ll have options available.
There are a couple of items to note though. While the fountain is well regarded it is definitely a little on the flimsy side. This is true of most plastic fountains but worth noting if you have rambunctious cats or small children that could knock the fountain over.
Pump durability has also been called out as an area of concern by many other owners, but it is hard to see if they followed the recommended cleaning instructions.
The Pros:
The pump is one of the quietest on the market being an IPS (Isolated Pump System) – perfect for small homes or apartments
There are drinking areas for your cats at three different heights which means lots of options to get it right
The plastic bowls in this model are 100% dishwasher safe so you can fully disinfect them whenever you desire
The pump has an adjustable flow to slow things down or speed them up, perfect for picky cats
Very affordable, and replacement filters are affordable too meaning it is cheap to ensure your cat drinks lots of H20
It has an extra-long power cord compared to most models (10 ft) which can be a perk if you’ve got a specific spot you want to put it
If the pump happens to go (they all do eventually) you can buy a replacement without replacing the whole fountain
Uses a carbon filter to keep the water clean for your cat(s) and ensure they don’t get sick
This is a nice short video overview of the benefits of the Cat Mate Water Fountain as well:
The Cons:
It seems to be a little flimsier than I would have expected, almost like it could fall over or collapse at any time
The fountain is relatively low capacity (70 oz) so it requires constant refills and isn’t ideal for long trips away
The filter doesn’t do a great job of blocking items from getting into the pump (perhaps the reason for pump durability issues)
Tips for Best Usage:
Be sure to top off the fountain with water on a daily basis or every other day at the least given the small capacity
Giving the fountain a deep clean every two weeks or so is highly recommended, I’d recommend a dish washer for the bowls
The pump itself will need to be deconstructed and cleaned out every other week or so to ensure it doesn’t get moldy
You’ll want to place a tray or mat under it to catch splashes from your furballs so your floor doesn’t get soaked
Frequently Asked Questions:
How often do you have to refill it?
If possible I would suggest topping it off daily.
You wouldn’t want to buy this assuming you can leave your cats at home for several days.
Is it noisy?
The product is not noisy at all, in fact this is one of the key differentiators of this specific model.
Is it dish washer safe?
Yes, the bowls are made of dishwasher safe plastic.
How often do you have to clean it?
I’d recommend pouring all the water out and replacing it once a week.
I’d recommend a deep clean every two weeks at the least including a deconstruction of the pump.
This will help maintain the integrity of the pump and also decrease the chances of anything nasty getting in the fountain.
How often do I have to replace the filters?
You’ll need to replace the filters about ever 3-4 weeks. You can find the replacements here.
The Cat Mate Water Fountain is well regarded fountain that is ideal for households that are primarily looking for a very quiet water fountain. If you have a studio apartment or you want to keep water in the bedroom at night for your cats this is the perfect fit for you.
The fountain also does have numerous drinking heights/locations and an adjustable flow to find the right speed for your cats. The key thing to keep in mind is you’ll have to clean it often and that the construction seems a little bit flimsy.
Do you have a water fountain for your cats? If so, do you use the Cat Mate Pet Fountain? Do you have any tips to share on using it or reasons people should avoid it?
Please leave a comment below or email me directly at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com if you have any thoughts to add to this article.
StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain Product Overview:
The Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain is a great plastic fountain that is 100% BPA free & dishwasher safe. It also has rubber feet to keep it from sliding around on a wood or tile floor which is a huge perk if you have rambunctious cats or another pet like a dog in the house.
The fountain features a huge built in reservoir at a total of 168 oz., it is more than double some other options out there like the Raindrop model. This means if you want to leave it for a few days without refilling it you shouldn’t have any problem at all.
Not only does it have a huge reservoir but it also has an adjustable flow pump so you can figure out the right speed to keep your cats interested in the fountain.
While in general this is a solid fountain, it is worth noting that replacement pumps are not something you can purchase separately. This means if the pump dies the whole unit is useless and you’ll have to buy a new one.
This problem is exacerbated by the open nature of the fountain and the fact that it enables lots of stuff to get into the fountain and gum up the workings of the pump. While experience shows that the pump will last a solid year so long as you care for it properly, it is somewhat wasteful to have to buy an entire new unit for the pump.
The Pros:
The plastic the fountain is made from is BPA Free
The fountain is 100% dishwasher safe
The pump has an adjustable flow to slow things down or speed them up
It has a huge reservoir size at 168 oz.
Has a built in pre-filter to help maintain the integrity of the pump
Uses a carbon filter to keep the water clean for your cat(s)
The Cons:
The fountain tends to get dirty/gunky easily (some owners have indicated avocado seeds in the water to help prevent this)
The pump is not replaceable, if it breaks/dies you need to replace the whole unit
Given the feature set it is a little bit pricy compared to other similar fountains
If you have the pump on high the splashing can definitely make a mess
Tips for Best Usage:
Be sure to top off the fountain with water every few days
Giving the fountain a deep clean every two weeks or so is highly recommended, I’d recommend a dish washer for the top
You’ll want to place a tray or mat under it to catch splashes from your furballs so your floor doesn’t get soaked
Frequently Asked Questions:
How often do you have to refill it?
It has a huge reservoir so every couple of days is fine. The pump will make a lot more noise if it desperately needs a refill.
If you need to leave town for the weekend this fountain should be just fine without a refill.
Is it noisy?
This pump has multiple settings, on the lowest setting the pump is whisper quiet.
There is also a built in “landing area” for the water to fall on to minimize the sound.
Is it dish washer safe?
Yes, the fountain is dishwasher safe.
How often do you have to clean it?
I’d recommend pouring all the water out and replacing it once a week.
I’d recommend a deep clean every two weeks at the least including a deep clean of the pump itself. There’s a cleaning kit too if you want it.
This will help maintain the integrity of the pump and also decrease the chances of anything nasty getting in the fountain.
How often do I have to replace the filters?
You’ll need to replace the filters about ever 3-4 weeks. You can find the replacements here.
Is the pump replaceable?
No, unfortunately you need to replace the whole unit if the pump fails.
Wrapping it Up
The Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain fountain is a reputable fountain made of BPA free plastic which places it a step above many other plastic fountains. It also has a very large water reservoir (168 oz) and an adjustable flow control to help find the right speed of water for your cats.
The key drawbacks of this model are that it only has a single level where water can pool and given its open flow nature it does tend to require constant cleaning and can end up making a mess by splashing.
Do you have a water fountain for your cats? If so, do you use the Petsafe Platinum? Do you have any tips to share on using it or reasons people should avoid it?
Please leave a comment below or email me directly at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com if you have any thoughts to add to this article.
StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
For anyone asking “Why would a cat need a water fountain?” please check out my article on ensuring your cat stays hydrated and why it is important. If you’ve already read it then you’re probably wondering what is the best cat water fountain, and I’ll be honest, you’ve found it right here!
The Catit Flower Fountain is a kind of like a unicorn minus the coloring of all the unicorn bread and lattes I’ve been seeing around lately. It is the best in class, but it is the best in class across a variety of different areas of interest:
Pricing: It is very affordable compared to a ton of other cat water fountains
Noise Level: It is quite quiet compared several other products on the market
Ease of Use for Cats: It is at just the right height for your typical cat making it easy for them to drink
Ease of Use for Humans: It is incredibly easy to clean and it is incredibly easy to fill
Quality: The product, while light, is quite sturdy in general
Great Vendor: Catit has been shown to be incredibly accommodating when a part breaks or something crazy happens like a cat tree falls on your water fountain. They’ve even been known to ship free parts to people in certain circumstances.
All in all it is a great product in a very nice affordable price range. While there are of course more expensive water fountains out there with different features, this is definitely a great way to go, especially if you’re just choosing your first fountain.
How Was the Setup & Maintenance?
The setup was a breeze. The instructions are incredibly straight forward and they only have a few simple steps. You can watch my YouTube video of the setup below, but it only took about 3-4 minutes once I had all of the parts out of the box.
Here’s a quick summary of the setup:
Unpack all the parts & clean the basin and other parts thoroughly
Insert the small black pump connector & stick the pump in the basin
Place the basin top on and lay the filter inside
Insert whichever water distributor pieces you would like to use (basic, bubbler or calm streams)
Then simply place the fountain wherever you’d like your cats to drink from it and plug it in
Maintenance is also quite easy. I have two cats in my house and weekly cleaning seems to work quite well for me. Here’s a quick rundown of the maintenance steps as well:
Deconstruct the fountain & separate the filter & motor from the other parts
Wash the basin & distributors with a non abrasive cleaner (dish soap is fine)
If the filter contains too much gunk (cat hair and such) replace it, you can get new filters here
If the pump appears dirty then open the pump and remove the impeller cap and clean it all with a cotton swab
Be extra careful with the motor because it is fragile, if you do happen to break it you can get a new one here
Reconstruct the fountain and fill it with water before turning it back on
My General Take:
I give it a solid 4.5 stars, mostly because there are a few tiny things that could make it even better! That being said, I think this is honestly one of the best cat fountains on the market. There are only a few small things I would change with it and most of those I could see making the production of the product significantly more expensive. Accounting for everything I think this is an excellent product and you can’t go wrong with the purchase.
The Pros:
It encouraged both of my cats to drink on a more consistent basis.
It comes in at a great price.
It is super quiet compared to most fountains I’ve experienced.
It has a large tank that doesn’t need to be refilled often.
It is very easy to take apart and clean on a weekly basis.
Saves you from refilling bowls daily or from running a dripping faucet depending on the cat.
Room for Improvement
It would be nice to be able to tell how much water is in it without picking it up or opening it.
Unless it is filled with water all the way it is quite lightweight making it easy to tip or get knocked over.
I personally don’t love plastic from a disinfecting standpoint, I’d prefer stainless, but it is dishwasher safe.
Both my cats are very easily startled and they took to it in less than 48 hours. Based on additional Amazon reviews this seems to be the consensus.
Can you buy just one part if something breaks?
Most of the major components can be purchased separately, the pump for example is available on Amazon.
How large is the fountain?
Product Dimensions:8.3 x 8.3 x 7.3 inches
Does it have a battery backup?
No, there is no battery backup if the power goes out.
Is it easily flipped over?
Larger cats or mischievous cats have been known to flip the fountain over with relative ease. This does make a huge mess and can destroy the pump if it ends up out of the water.
How often should I clean the filter?
It is recommended you clean it weekly.
Is the plastic the fountain is made of BPA free?
Yes.
How long is the cord?
About 4-4.5 feet long.
If you have any other thoughts on the Catit Water Fountain please leave a comment below or send me an email at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com so I can update this article.
StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The second major feature to keep in mind is that this fountain is designed with more of a slide than what you might have seen with other fountains. The water does not drop over a fall or shoot out like a human drinking fountain which is another key difference from many fountains in the market place. This means if you’ve got a cat that likes a gentle flow instead of splashing or falling water this is the fountain for you.
Product Name: Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain
The Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain is a great plastic fountain that is 100% BPA free & dishwasher safe. It also has rubber feet to keep it from sliding around on a wood or tile floor which is a huge perk if you have rambunctious cats or another pet like a dog in the house.
Tips for Best Usage:
