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The best cat water fountains will tempt your feline to drink more water. And as a devoted cat parent, you understand the importance of providing your kitty with fresh and clean water to support their health and well-being. Cat water fountains have emerged as an increasingly popular option, offering a range of benefits that go beyond traditional water bowls. In this article, we delve into the world of cat water fountains to bring you a comprehensive review of the best options available. We’ll explore key factors to consider when shopping for a cat water fountain and address common questions cat caretakers often have. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current fountain, read on to discover the purr-fect pour for your furry friend. But first, let’s discuss the benefits of cat water fountains.
What Are the Benefits of a Cat Water Fountain?
A cat water fountain offers several benefits for both cats and their parents. Check out these advantages of using a cat water fountain:
- Encourages hydration: Cats are known for their low thirst drive and often prefer running water. A water fountain mimics the movement of water, which can attract cats and encourage them to drink more. This is particularly beneficial for cats prone to dehydration or urinary tract issues.
- Fresh and clean water: A cat water fountain typically includes a built-in filtration system that helps remove impurities such as hair, debris, and bacteria from the water. This ensures a constant supply of fresh and clean water, which may be more appealing than water from a regular bowl.
- Reduces health risks: Stagnant water in traditional bowls can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other contaminants, which may lead to health issues in cats. A fountain’s filtration system helps to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms, reducing the risk of illnesses.
- Convenience: Cat water fountains typically have larger water reservoirs compared to regular bowls, meaning you don’t have to refill them as frequently. This is especially convenient if you have a busy schedule or need to be away from home for longer periods.
- Stress reduction: The sound and sight of flowing water can have a calming effect on cats. It may help reduce their stress and anxiety levels, making them feel more comfortable and relaxed in their environment.
- Entertainment and stimulation: Some cats find the movement of water in a fountain intriguing and may enjoy playing with it. This provides a source of entertainment and mental stimulation for your cat, especially if they tend to get bored easily.
- Multiple drinking stations: Many cat water fountains have multiple spouts or streams, allowing multiple cats to drink simultaneously. This can be particularly useful in multi-cat households where competition for water resources may arise.
It’s important to note that while cat water fountains offer numerous benefits, they should be cleaned regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain optimal hygiene and functionality.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider When Choosing The Best Cat Water Fountain
Size and Capacity
Consider the size of the fountain in relation to the available space in your home and the needs of your cat. If you have multiple cats or larger breeds, a fountain with a larger water capacity may be more suitable to ensure an ample supply of water.
Filtration System
Look for a cat water fountain that features an effective filtration system. A good filtration system helps remove impurities, hair, debris, and odors from the water, ensuring it remains clean and fresh for your cat to drink. Also, look for replacement parts online for the model you’re interested in to be sure you can replace parts when they wear out.
Material and Durability
Pay attention to the materials used in the construction of the fountain. Opt for stainless steel cat water fountains or BPA-free plastic options. That said, stainless steel is the top option for cat water fountains as they’re easier to clean and don’t harbor bacteria like plastics can. Plus, cheap plastic can cause chin acne in some cats. If you choose to use a plastic cat water fountain, opt for one with a stainless steel top or one made with BPA-free plastics. Either material you choose, look for choices made with nontoxic materials that are resistant to scratching. Additionally, choose a fountain that is durable and won’t tip over, especially if you have an active or curious cat.
Noise Level
Consider the noise level produced by the water fountain. Some cats may be sensitive to loud or constant noise, so look for a fountain that operates quietly or has adjustable water flow settings to cater to your cat’s preferences. Remember, you’ll be hearing this fountain running, too, so choose quiet water fountains for both you and your cat’s sake.
Ease of Cleaning
Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain the hygiene of the fountain. Look for a fountain that is easy to disassemble and clean, preferably one that is dishwasher-safe or has easily accessible parts for thorough cleaning. Ensure you can get in every nook and cranny to clear away all the biofilm, debris, and hair.
Design and Stability
Consider the design and stability of the water fountain. Ensure it has a stable base to prevent tipping and spilling. Some cats may also prefer certain types of water flow, such as fountains with gentle streams or cascading waterfalls, so take your cat’s preferences into account.
In considering these factors, you can choose a cat water fountain that suits your cat’s needs and preferences while ensuring ease of use and maintenance for yourself as well.
The Best Cat Water Fountains
1 – PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel
- Noise level: below 30dB
- Capacity: 2L/67fl oz
- Food-grade 304 stainless steel
- Adjustable water flow
- Dishwasher-safe components
This best cat fountain is made of stainless steel for a clean and durable hydration experience that’s easy to refill and clean. A filter and pre-filter sponge provide double filtration to remove odors, hair, and debris. The lid lifts off and replaces easily for adding water. To turn it on/off, simply plug and unplug from the wall outlet. Plus, in reading reviews, you’ll find this is one of the best-rated cat water fountains on Amazon.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Quiet operation
- Corrosion & rust resistant
- Easy assembly
Cons
- More expensive than competitors
2 – Cheerble Pet Fountain Elfin E1+
- Pumpless MagDrive design—no motor, no deep cleaning hassle
- Wireless setup for flexible placement anywhere in your home
- Multi-layer filter removes dirt, heavy metals & odors
- Dual modes: PIR-activated or timed water dispensing
- 145ml emergency water reserve and auto-shutoff for safety
- Made with food-grade stainless steel and BPA-free materials
The Cheerble Pet Fountain Elfin E1+ takes hydration to a whole new level with its innovative MagDrive™ technology pumpless design—eliminating traditional pumps and all the cleaning headaches that come with them. Without a built-in motor submerged in water, there are no hidden grime traps, making every part easy to disassemble and rinse clean. Plus, the electronic components are completely separated from the water, dramatically increasing safety and extending the life of the device.
Unlike standard fountains, the Cheerble Pet Fountain Elfin E1+ doesn’t need to stay plugged in. Its wireless, portable design means you can place it anywhere your cat prefers to drink. A multi-layer filtration system removes heavy metals and impurities to keep water fresh and safe. And with two smart modes—Timer Mode and Intelligent PIR Mode—your cat gets access to flowing water that encourages frequent drinking.
Pros
- No pump = easier cleaning and longer lifespan
- Fully wireless—place it anywhere
- Ultra-quiet, ideal for skittish cats
- Safer design with no electrical components in the water
- Great for preventing cat acne
Cons
- Smaller water capacity may not suit large multi-pet households
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3 – oneisall Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel
- Noise level: 20dB
- Capacity: 2L/67fl oz
- 360-degree open bowl design
- Food-grade 304 stainless steel
- Dishwasher-safe components
The oneisall stainless steel cat water fountain provides a super-quiet experience with water that cascades over a center rise to fall into a wide bowl. The 360-degree multi-directional water flow allows more than one cat to sip at a time. Plus, the open bowl design means your cat always has access to water even if the level runs too low to pump or the power goes out. An activated carbon filter and pre-filter sponge help keep water free of dirt, grime, and hair. This quiet cat water fountain is a win for thirsty cats and parents looking for a fountain that doesn’t make a big racket.
Pros
- Rust-resistant
- Quiet operation
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Water gets dirtier faster than a closed fountain design
4 – Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain
- Capacity: 81oz/2.4L
- Stainless steel body for durability and hygiene
- Water level window and LED light for water shortage alerts
- 3-stage filtration with 3 replacement filters included
- Includes a non-slip mat to catch spills and splashes
The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain is a stylish and practical choice for cat parents looking to keep their felines hydrated. Its stainless steel design ensures both durability and cleanliness, while the 81oz/2.4L capacity is perfect for multi-cat households or even small dogs. With an easy-to-see water level window and LED light alert for low water, this fountain offers convenience and peace of mind. Plus, its 3-stage filtration system keeps the water fresh and pure.
Pros
- Large capacity suitable for multiple pets
- Stainless steel is easy to clean and more hygienic than plastic
- Quiet operation, great for sensitive pets or quiet environments
- LED alert ensures you’ll never forget to refill
Cons
- LED light may be too bright for some at night
- Filters require regular replacement to maintain effectiveness
5 – Catit Senses 2.0 Flower Fountain
- Capacity: 3L/100fl oz
- 3 water flow settings
- Made from non-toxic, BPA-free plastic
- Triple-filtering
- Energy-efficient pump with power cord
The Catit cat water fountain is one of the best-rated cat water fountains on the market, thanks to Catit’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality cat products felines love. While it isn’t made of stainless steel, the plastic is safe and BPA-free. By adjusting the cute flower fountain head, you can select from one of 3 different water flow settings to best appease your cat. It’s also available in two colors, or you can opt for a stainless-steel fountain top instead.
Pros
- Cute design
- Large water volume
- Highly rated by thousands of cat parents
- Low power usage
Cons
- Not made of stainless steel
6 – iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain
- Capacity: 2.1L/71fl oz
- 360-degree open bowl design
- Eco-friendly, natural ceramic construction
- Lotus-shaped water outlet
- Dual-layer filtering
The iPettie fountain’s ceramic construction not only adds a touch of elegance to any home decor but also ensures durability and easy cleaning. With its three-tiered design, the fountain provides multiple water streams, enticing cats to drink more. The ultra-quiet pump guarantees a peaceful environment, and the large water capacity eliminates the need for constant refills. Overall, the iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain combines aesthetics, functionality, and convenience, making it an excellent investment for cat hydration.
Pros
- Low power consumption
- Quiet pump
- Durable and easy to clean
- Pleasing design that matches any home
Cons
- More expensive than other options
- Ceramic is breakable
7 – PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain
- Noise level: less than 23dB
- Capacity: 2.1L/almost 80fl oz
- BPA-free ABS material
- 2 water flow options
- Available in 6 colors
PETLIBRO makes the list of best cat water fountains again with a high-volume plastic cat water fountain that boasts a triple-filtration system, which purifies water by removing impurities, hair, and debris, ensuring fresh and clean water for your feline companion. The ultra-quiet pump creates a serene environment, and the adjustable water flow allows you to customize the drinking experience. Plus, the transparent bowl allows you to see when it’s time for a refill. Comes with 4 replacement filters.
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Large volume
- Whisper quiet
- Easy to assemble
- Non-slip rubber grips
Cons
- Some reviewers mention bowl leaks
8 – uahpet Water Fountain
- Capacity: 2L/67fl oz
- Automatic cat water fountain senses motion
- Made of food-grade materials
- 6 layers of filtration
No electrical cords here! This wireless cat water fountain gives you the power of placement choice as it’s battery-operated. And with two smart modes, you can choose between motion-activated, which releases water for 30-35 seconds when it senses your cat, or the timed mode, which releases water every 15 minutes. Made of food-grade ABS, PP, and Silica gel materials, you’ll find it easy to clean and maintain. The battery can be recharged for up to 30-120 days of use, depending on the number of times it releases water.
Pros
- No electrical cords
- Affordably priced
- Amazing filtration
- Quiet, no-tip design
- The battery can be recharged
Cons
- Takes a long time to fully charge
9 – Homtyler Cat Water Fountain
- Noise level: less than 30dB
- Capacity: 2L/67fl oz
- Food grade 304 stainless steel
- BPA-free & dishwasher safe
- Available in round or square shape
The unique red buoy in the Homtyler’s stainless steel cat water fountain allows you to monitor the water, so you don’t have to hear the sputtering of an empty fountain bowl anymore! Just watch as the buoy goes down and know right when to add water. And if this fountain stops working within a year of purchase, the manufacturer offers a full refund.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Red buoy lets you water level
- Triple filtration for clean water
- Low noise level
Cons
- First-time installation may be tricky
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Cat Water Fountains
1. Do cats prefer water fountains over bowls?
Cats’ preferences regarding water fountains versus bowls can vary. However, many cats do show a preference for water fountains. The flowing water in fountains mimics natural water sources, which can attract cats due to their association with freshness. The movement and sound of the water can also encourage cats to drink more frequently, promoting better hydration. Additionally, some cats may have an aversion to still water, and the continuous circulation and filtration in fountains help keep the water fresh and appealing. Ultimately, while not all cats may prefer water fountains, they can be a beneficial option for encouraging cats to drink more water and stay hydrated.
2. Do vets recommend water fountains for cats?
Many veterinarians do recommend water fountains for cats, especially for those who may have low water intake or are prone to urinary tract issues. Water fountains can entice cats to drink more water by providing a more appealing and interactive drinking experience. Increased water intake can also support urinary tract health by helping dilute urine and flush the system. In addition, proper hydration supports kidney function by helping the body remove waste more efficiently. While fountains are generally recommended, it is still best to consult your veterinarian to determine what is ideal for your specific cat.
3. How do I introduce a cat to a water fountain?
Start by placing the fountain near your cat’s regular water bowl so they can inspect it without pressure. Let them sniff and explore the fountain while it is turned off, then turn it on once they seem comfortable. If your cat is hesitant, encourage them with treats, toys, or by letting them lick a bit of water from your finger. Keep the original bowl available during the transition, and gradually rely more on the fountain as your cat becomes used to it. Some cats adjust quickly, while others may need several days of patience and gentle encouragement.
4. How often should I change the water in a cat fountain?
The water in a cat fountain should ideally be changed every 2 to 3 days to maintain cleanliness and freshness. However, the exact schedule may vary depending on the fountain type, room temperature, and how quickly your cat drinks the water. Daily monitoring is important, and if you notice debris, discoloration, or an odor, the water should be changed immediately. Following the manufacturer’s cleaning and maintenance guidelines will also help keep the fountain safe and appealing for your cat.
5. Can I use tap water in a cat fountain?
Yes, you can generally use tap water in a cat water fountain. Most tap water is safe for cats to drink, but water quality can vary depending on your location. If your tap water has a strong taste, odor, or visible mineral buildup, using filtered or bottled water may be a better option. A good rule of thumb is that if you would not drink the water yourself, it may not be the best choice for your cat either.
6. How often should the fountain be cleaned?
A cat water fountain should be cleaned regularly to keep it hygienic and prevent slime, mold, or bacterial buildup. Light daily maintenance, such as removing hair and wiping the surface, helps keep the fountain fresh between deeper cleanings. A full deep clean, which includes disassembling the fountain and cleaning the pump and reservoir, is typically recommended every 2 to 3 weeks. If you notice an unpleasant odor, slime, or visible contamination, clean the fountain immediately,y regardless of the schedule.
7. Is it safe to leave a cat water fountain running all the time?
Yes, it is generally safe to leave a cat water fountain running all the time. Continuous circulation helps keep the water fresher, encourages cats to drink more, and ensures water is always available. However, regular cleaning, filter replacement, and occasional checks for pump issues are important to keep the fountain functioning properly. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe use and maintenance for your specific fountain model.
Make A Splash With Your Cat!
In conclusion, choosing the right cat water fountain can greatly benefit your feline companion’s health and well-being. After extensive research and analysis, we have identified the top cat water fountains that offer fresh, flowing water, durable construction, and easy maintenance. Whether your cat prefers a compact design, quiet operation, or an advanced filtration system, there is a cat water fountain on our list to suit their needs. Invest in one of these top-rated fountains and provide your cat with a constant source of clean and enticing water. And for your cat’s continued health and happiness, don’t forget to take all the parts of your fountain apart for thorough cleanings at least once a month!
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