Our majestic felines have it all. They perch on windowsills with graceful nonchalance, they rub against your legs like it’s their job (because it is), and they curl up in laps with a contented purr that could put any relaxation app to shame. All that hard work requires some hydration. Our little lions often don’t take a drink from their cat bowl as often as they should. One reason is that cats are instinctively drawn to flowing water. Because in the wild, flowing water is safe water. So what’s the solution? Enter cat water fountains.
These nifty contraptions keep your cats hydrated by providing cool, filtered drinking water all day. Plus, watching your kitty lap up water from an adorable cat fountain spout is just plain delightful.
But how do you choose the best cat water fountain for your beloved furball? No worries —we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular and highly-rated options on the market today.
From stainless steel designs that blend seamlessly into modern decor schemes to whimsical flower-shaped models that will make you smile each time your kitty takes a sip, there are plenty of options. So join us as we dive headfirst into the world of cat water fountains because our furballs deserve nothing but the best.
Best Cat Fountains to Consider
Cats need great hydration alongside a healthy cat food routine. So, when it comes to keeping your feline friend hydrated, a water fountain is an ideal solution. Not only do cats love the sound of running water, but continuously circulating water keeps bacteria at bay and encourages them to drink more often. There are a lot of features to consider, so read on to learn more.
First off, size matters. You don’t want a tiny little fountain that runs dry after an hour or two, nor do you want one so large that it takes up too much space. The ideal size will depend on how many cats you have and how much they drink; generally speaking, though, aim for something around 50-100 ounces.
Next up: filtration. Your cat deserves clean and fresh-tasting water just as much as you do (maybe even more). Make sure the fountain has some sort of filter system in place to remove impurities and debris from the water. Bonus points if it’s easy to replace or washable.
Another important factor is noise level. Some cats are perfectly fine with splashing and gurgling sounds coming from their drinking source; others might be startled by anything louder than a whisper. If your kitty falls into the latter category, look for models specifically designed to be quiet or have adjustable flow rates.
Design-wise, there are plenty of options, from cute ceramic bowls shaped like flowers to sleek stainless steel. Keep in mind both form and function when selecting — i.e., make sure any crevices or hard-to-reach areas won’t become breeding grounds for bacteria.
Finally and you should consider durability. Cats can be notoriously rough on their possessions, especially when those possessions involve moving liquid that they get excited about batting at. Ensure the fountain is made of sturdy materials that can withstand daily use and occasional paw swipes.
Finding the right cat water fountain requires a bit of thought and consideration, but it’s worth it for your furry friend’s health and happiness. So go ahead — treat them to their very own mini oasis. Just don’t be surprised if they start demanding cucumber-infused water next.
PetSafe Seaside Stainless Cat Fountain
The PetSafe Seaside Stainless Cat Fountain is a great choice for pet owners looking to give their feline friend access to fresh, filtered water. Boasting a generous 60-ounce capacity and durable stainless steel construction, this fountain is designed with both convenience and style in mind. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller spaces, while its triple-filter system features 2.5 times the filtering power of other brands. Your cat will enjoy clean water, and what’s more, you won’t be replacing the filters so frequently.
This fountain also includes a steady water flow, which cats are naturally drawn to. This will encourage them to drink more often. Plus, the raised edges help keep the water where it belongs — in the bowl and off your precious clean floor. What’s even better about this product is that fussy drinkers can pick from either the tower or bowl when accessing the 360-degree design. This offers them variety and is especially helpful in a multi-cat family.
Overall, the PetSafe Seaside Stainless Cat Fountain offers reliable performance with modern aesthetics at an affordable price point – making it ideal for any quality-conscious cat owner who wishes to provide their furry companion with a steady flow of H2O.
Pros:
- Provides plenty of flowing water
- Pretty easy to clean
- Simple assembly
- Two filter system
- Durable design
- Runs quiet
Cons:
- Must be cleaned regularly
Automatic Cat Water Fountain
We love the sleek look of ESHOO’s cat water fountain. Sure, we should probably start by saying that we think this fountain is an excellent choice for the health and hydration of your beloved pet, and it is — but hey — looks should count too. Okay, back to the practical stuff.
For starters, this fountain features an ultra-quiet and low consumption pump along with a 2.5L reservoir which should be enough for a couple of cats. What’s more, the impressive circulation system design keeps the freshwater flowing, and the carbon filter system prevents any bacteria or debris from polluting the water. Even better, this cat water fountain boasts a stainless steel design, and aside from the pump and filters, you can throw everything in the dishwasher for a quick and easy clean.
Pros:
- Cute design looks good in the home
- Carbon filter for better water quality
- Low noise level
- User friendly
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- No cons here
Quiet Pet Water Fountain
Some cat fountains are loud. Now your little furball may not care, but their gurgles and bubbles are sometimes loud enough to wake us up. That’s what drew us to this cat water fountain. This hydration machine runs whisper quiet.
With noise levels hitting a paltry max of 20db, we’re willing to bet that you’ll forget this fountain is even running. In addition to low decibels, this cat fountain also offers a substantial 3.2L tank, so you won’t find yourself constantly refilling it.
Lastly, we love the modern look of this fountain. The sleek, unassuming design works anywhere you place it.
Pros:
- Easy disassembly for cleaning
- Simple, elegant design
- Incredibly quiet
- Reliable
Cons:
- You need to soak a new filter in water for 2 minutes before use
Pagoda Pet Fountain
Ceramic is a great choice for your new cat fountain, especially if you’re looking to avoid the more clinical look that stainless steel offers. It’s a tough, non-porous, and durable material that should last and last, too. Enter, the Pagoda Pet Fountain by PetSafe:
Not only is this fountain scratch resistant and strong, it’s gorgeous, too — not that your cats will care. But we think they’ll appreciate the fresh, carbon-filtered water. And while it’s not as whisper quiet as our previous pick, it’s not going to keep you awake at night.
Pros:
- Non-skid
- May look delicate, but it’s very durable
- Stress-free assembly and cleaning
- Carvon filter is very effective
- Available in different colors
- Attractive design
Cons:
- 70 oz water tank isn’t the largest
Pet LED Automatic Water Dish
To say that this cat fountain is adorable is an understatement. If you prefer quaint and cute kitty accessories, then Pet LED Automatic Water Dish is right up your alley.
But you can’t buy this solely for its looks. this fountain is quite utilitarian. With an LED indicator to let you know when to refill the water, an ultra-quiet operation, and low energy consumption, this one’s not just a pretty face.
Overall this is a great pick for cat owners looking for a fountain that’s both whimsical and practical.
Pros:
- Very quiet
- LED indicator
- Dishwasher-safe
- Anti-skid
- 3 modes: flower waterfall, flower bubble, and gentle fountain
Cons:
- Not to everyone’s taste
Frequently asked questions
Why should I invest in a cat water fountain?
Cats are attracted to moving water and tend to drink more when it’s available. A cat drinking fountain can help improve your pet’s hydration, which supports kidney function, helps prevent urinary tract infections, and promotes overall good health. Just like a good litter box and engaging cat toys, these fountains are a game-changer when you snap up a great one.
How do I clean my cat fountain?
The answer to this question may vary depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, but here’s what we do. First, unplug the fountain and empty out all of the water. Next, use a mild detergent or pet-safe cleaner to wipe down any surfaces that have come into contact with water. Allow the fountain to air dry before refilling it. For deeper cleaning, you can remove all of the components from the fountain and soak them in warm soapy water overnight. Make sure to rinse everything thoroughly before putting it back together and filling up your cat’s new clean drinking source.
How often do I need to replace the filters in my cat fountain?
Most cat fountains recommend replacing the filters every 2 to 6 weeks for optimal performance. However, this may vary depending on how often your cat uses the fountain and the quality of water used in it.
Can you use tap water in cat fountains?
Most units will work well with regular tap water.
Can multiple cats share one water fountain?
Yes, cats can share the same fountain. Most fountains feature a filtration system, so it’s actually more sanitary than regular water bowls.
Can I use third-party filters in my cat water fountain?
You can use third-party filters in your cat water fountain as long as the filter is designed for pet water fountains. Be sure to check the size and compatibility of the filter before purchasing it, or contact a customer service representative at either company for help.
Do all cat fountains have adjustable flow settings?
Some models only offer one speed, but others come with adjustable pumps that allow pet owners to customize the flow for individual preferences.
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Since 2008, Cattime has served as a leading resource for millions of cat owners and pet lovers alike. Our goal is to give every cat and pet a happy, healthy home by providing owners with all information they need to be the best pet parents possible. Our experts share their insights and recommendations to make caring for your beloved pet a breeze.