With summer on the horizon, keeping your feline friend hydrated is of the utmost importance. If you've noticed that your cat prefers to lap up water from a running tap, then it's worth investing in a cat fountain to keep your kitty hydrated.
So, if getting a water dispenser for cats is a top priority, you've come to the right place! Below, we have researched and listed some of the most popular options on the market. To round off our guide, we've also included a helpful buying guide along with some frequently asked questions to help you decide. So, read on to learn more about cat water fountains and what makes them a worthwhile purchase.
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Key Takeaways:
- Many cats prefer drinking from running water instead of still water from a dish.
- Water fountains provide cats with a source of running water and are also very hygienic.
- Some cats are attracted to the sounds of flowing water, so quiet operation fountains may not be the best option in some instances.
- Fountains featuring filters (including ion exchange resin and an activated carbon filter) will remove foul tastes and bad odors, which is perfect for fussy felines.
- Indoor cats may not drink as much as their outdoor counterparts as they don't burn as much energy.
- Multitiered fountains are great for senior or arthritic pets that struggle when leaning in to drink.
- Some fountains are great for multiple cats and even small to medium-sized dogs.
What is a Cat Water Fountain, and How does it Work?
A cat fountain is a fantastic invention made for cats that prefer to drink from a running water source. These fountains use a pump to encourage water flows that entice your cat into drinking. These will also take advantage of filters to ensure the water stays fresh and clean to avoid health problems.
What are the Benefits of Water Fountains for Cats?
As mentioned previously, the sound and sight of running water can encourage most cats to drink more. Typically, cats don't drink nearly as much as they should, which can lead to kidney issues and other serious health problems. You can avoid dehydration-related health concerns by enticing them with a running water source.
Cat Fountain vs. Cat Water Bowl
Over time, a generic bowl of stagnant water can gather hair and other debris that can harm your cat's system. On the other hand, most fountains will have a built-in filter system that removes any invading dirt before your cat can gulp it down. Furthermore, fountains with multiple filters will also remove any bad odors or tastes that can deter your cat from drinking.
15 Best Cat Water Fountains
1 Catit Senses 2.0 Flower Fountain
- Water storage: 3 liters
- Dimensions: 9.0 x 8.3 x 7.7 inches
- Contains a triple-action filter for pure drinking water
- Includes a water level window
- Quiet operation
We’ll begin our list with the popular Catit flower fountain. This small and efficient cat water dispenser won’t take up too much floor space in your home and has three different water flow settings to entice any picky drinker. Although regular cleaning is necessary to keep this water fountain safe and useable, all you need is water and soap and the job is done in less than five minutes.
This simple, small cat water fountain features a triple-action filter that effectively rejects debris, removes odors, and softens the water. With this in mind, you can guarantee your cat is drinking pure and clean water and will remain well-hydrated day in and day out.
- Water storage: 3 liters
- Dimensions: 9.0 x 8.3 x 7.7 inches
- Contains a triple-action filter for pure drinking water
- Includes a water level window
- Quiet operation
- The pump requires cleaning every two weeks to ensure optimal working
- Some issues with the durability of the pump
- The fountain requires access to mains electricity, and care needs to be taken with the placement of the cable
2 PetSafe Seaside Stainless Pet Water Fountain
- Water storage: 60 ounces (1.7 liters)
- Dimensions: 10.6 x 10.5 x 5.1 inches
- Stainless steel fountain
- Bubbling water flow
- Compatible with PetSafe replaceable carbon filter and foam filter
PetSafe’s stainless steel cat water fountain features a 360-degree bowl which is perfect for homes with multiple cats. This stylish and modern design contains a dual filtration system to keep water fresh and tasting great throughout the day and also includes a bubbling water flow to encourage pets to drink.
In addition to its already large list of benefits, most parts of this cat drinking fountain (excluding the pump) can be washed in your dishwasher making it simple to clean. Furthermore, it is made with high-quality, durable, and hygienic material that is safe from rusting and/or scratching.
- All parts (excluding the pump) are dishwasher safe
- Also suitable for small dogs
- Easy to clean
- Rust and scratch proof
- Doesn’t hold as much water as other pet water fountains
3 NPET 1.5L Automatic Cat Water Fountain
- Water storage: 1.5 liters
- Dimensions: 6.8 x 6.8 x 6.5 inches
- Silent pump
- Automatic pet fountain
- Eco-friendly material
- Triple filtration system
A lot of pet parents may have some concerns about purchasing plastic fountains. Rest assured, the NPET cat water fountain is made with non-toxic, eco-friendly material that can be cleaned easily and doesn’t give off any unfriendly odor. In addition to this, the NPET water fountain is perfect for multi-cat households, and thanks to the three filter layers, water will stay fresh and clean for up to a week.
If this design is one that takes your fancy, it’s necessary to note that the basic design doesn’t include an adaptor or sensor, so it may be worth taking a look at the alternatives that include these items. Fortunately, the water fountain is incredibly easy to install but always make sure to read the product description and instructions available before purchase.
- Transparent water tank
- Easy to clean
- Suitable for dogs
- Sloped design
- Basic design doesn’t include an adaptor or sensor
- Doesn’t hold as much water as other pet water fountains
4 PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain
- Water storage: 2.1 liters
- Dimensions: 8.86 x 5.6 x 5.5 inches
- Includes emergency water storage
- Two water flow modes
- BPA-free plastic
PETLIBRO’s pet water fountain has an astonishing amount of great features including a quadruple filtration system to guarantee clean, safe water. First, an activated carbon filter removes bad tastes and odors followed by ion exchange resin to soften water. Medical stone will also remove heavy metals and release trace elements whilst a non-woven fabric filter excludes hair and other debris.
This whisper-quiet water fountain also includes two water flow modes: a continuous free-falling stream and a bubbling fountain feature. These modes are designed to capture the attention of your pet and encourage them to drink without making an excessive and unnecessary amount of noise.
- Ultra-quiet fountain
- Available in more colors
- Easy to assemble
- Expensive compared to other fountains
- Some recent feedback about poor structure quality
5 PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Cat and Dog Drinking Fountain
- Water storage: 70 ounces (2 liters)
- Dimensions: 10.63 x 12.25 x 8.38 inches
- Made using porcelain
- Dual streams
This stylish and durable design features two bowl levels to accommodate senior or arthritic pets as well as smaller dogs and cats. To add, PetSafe’s pet fountain is perfectly hygienic and is top-shelf dishwasher safe. Its multiple streams and larger size mean it is ideal for a multi-cat household and even for homes with small or medium-sized dogs.
One drawback mentioned by previous customers is that this water fountain may not be as quiet as other designs, especially as the water level decreases. This stylish and unique design comes in varying colors to match the interior of your home.
- Perfect for households with multiple animals
- Stylish design
- Available in three colors
- Easy to clean
- Expensive choice compared to others
- Not as quiet as other cat water fountains
6 Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain Stainless Steel
- Water storage: 1.77 liters
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 9 x 4.5 inches
- High-grade stainless steel fountain
- Replaceable charcoal filter
- Safe, low voltage UL power system
Pioneer Pet provides a simple stainless steel water fountain that is great for homes with multiple cats. This dishwasher-safe raindrop design is made with high-quality stainless steel and provides pets with a constant flow of fresh, clean water. Furthermore, its capacity means that you won’t be constantly refilling it.
One additional benefit of the stainless steel bowl is that it’s less likely to build up bacteria and is effortless to clean. Its hygienic qualities will therefore protect pets from becoming ill due to a bacterial infection. To add, the replaceable charcoal filter will also defuse the unappealing taste of tap water and rid it of odors.
- Raindrop design
- Great for multiple cats
- Also suitable for small dogs
- Quiet operation
- Dishwasher safe
- Not rated as highly as other products featured here
- Fewer filters
7 Veken Pet Fountain
- Water storage: 2.5 liters
- Dimensions: 7.48 x 7.48 x 5.91 inches
- Corded electric
- Three flow modes
- Triple filtration system
Your cat’s water fountain does, by no means, have to just be one gentle water flow. That’s why Veken’s Pet Fountains offer three flow designs to entice the fussiest of drinkers. Each fountain is easy to adjust and just as simple to clean and assemble.
Made with BPA-free and high-quality materials, the Veken Pet fountain contains three separate free-falling streams and comes with a handy silicone mat to keep your floor dry from spillages. Moreover, its filtration system guarantees that your cat will be drinking nothing but safe, clean, and fresh water.
- Low consumption pump
- Made with BPA-free plastic
- Available in two colors
- Includes silicone mat
- Some previous customers have commented about the quality of the filters
8 PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-tier Pet Fountain
- Water storage: 2.8 liters
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 11.94 x 5.94 inches
- Two bowl levels
- Free-flowing water
- Top-rack dishwasher safe
If you’re on the lookout for simple, sizeable drinking fountains that will last, take a look at another highly recommended option by PetSafe. PetSafe’s Drinkwell fountain is not only perfect for homes with more than one pet, but it is also well-suited for those with senior pets that perhaps struggle to lean into their bowls, thanks to its additional raised dish.
Due to its large water capacity and charcoal filter, this fountain won’t require frequent refills and the filter will only need to be replaced every two to four weeks. To top it off, this alternative is also incredibly quiet when operating.
- Stylish design
- Durable
- Quiet operation
- Great reviews online
- No adjustable water flow
- May make noise when water level decreases
9 Drinkwell Platinum Plastic Dog & Cat Fountain
- Water storage: 4.7 liters
- Dimensions: 15.88 x 10.63 x 10.5 inches
- Adjustable water flow
- Charcoal water filter
For our ninth product, we have yet another impressive pet fountain by the popular manufacturer PetSafe. As a pet parent, it’s common to see cats becoming bored with routine as they may begin to turn their nose up at a simple fountain after some time. With this in mind, this alternative offers an adjustable water flow that will recapture your feline’s attention whenever they look on the verge of disinterest.
Despite its larger storage capacity, this gentle fountain features a transparent tank so that you can keep an eye on the water levels. It is also effortless to disassemble when it’s due to be cleaned and lacks hard-to-reach areas that might build up bacteria.
- Incredible water storage capacity
- Also suitable for small and medium-sized dogs
- No hard-to-reach areas when cleaning
- Popular and highly rated on Amazon
- Dishwasher safe parts
- Previous customers have commented that it may not be easy to clean
- May require frequent cleaning
10 Kastty Cat Water Fountain With LED Indicator Light
- Water storage: 2.2 liters
- Dimensions: 7.91 x 7.6 x 5.98 inches
- Water refill reminder
- Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
- Colorful LED indicator light
- Coconut shell-activated carbon
If this quirky, colorful design hasn’t won you over then maybe previous customer reviews will sway you into considering this drinking fountain by Kastty. Many have commented that this unique cat drinking fountain has been the answer to keeping their fussy kitty healthy and hydrated.
Kastty’s small cat water fountains feature an LED light indicator which you can turn on and off at will. When the light is multicolored, your fountain is working perfectly but when this turns red, this is a reminder to refill the tank. This alternative also features a convenient sensor that will shut down the pump if water levels become too low to prevent it from burning out.
- Also suitable for small dogs
- Super quiet
- Handy features to let you know to refill
- Highly rated by previous customers
- Doesn’t feature a flowing stream
- To use outdoors, you must purchase a portable battery not already included
11 Cat Mate Genuine Pet 3-Level Fountain
- Water storage: 1.98 liters
- Dimensions: 6.75 x 10.5 x 8.75 inches
- Three-level fountain
- Built-in ramp to reduce splashing
- Three-stage filter
Don’t let the basic design of this pet fountain fool you. Cat Mate’s three-level fountain is a perfect pick for homes with senior pets as well as those with small to medium-sized dogs thanks to its three-tier build. Not only this but the gentle flow of water is enough to capture the attention of your pet and encourage them to quench their thirst.
This cat water fountain also features an effective filter system to ensure that the water remains clean and fresh. Not only is there an initial layer to prevent pet hair from seeping through but it also contains an activated carbon filter and ion exchange resin to prevent odors and limescale build-up. Ultimately, this filter will prolong the lifespan of your fountain by protecting the pump from bacteria.
- Dishwasher safe
- Also suitable for dogs
- Good value
- Quiet operation
- Basic design with no color variations
12 Lu&Ba Cat Water Fountain
- Water storage: 1.4 liters maximum
- Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 5.9 inches
- Rotor made with ceramic material
- Contains an auto-off function
- Multi filter system
Lu&Ba’s nanomaterial ceramic cat water fountain is another that includes a handy auto-off feature. The great thing about this aspect is that it will automatically turn your fountain off when the water level becomes too low to protect your pump from running dry and burning out. On top of this, there is also a safety light that will turn on to indicate when this happens.
Not only does this fountain feature the popular multi-filter feature to ensure safe drinking water, but its rotors are made with ceramic materials to reduce noise and increase its durability.
- Easy to clean
- 360-degree access
- Simple assembly
- Two modern designs to choose from
- Will need regular care to maintain the pump
- Only one water flow option
13 Homerunpet Cat Water Fountain with Wireless Pump
- Water storage: 2 liters
- Dimensions: 7.59 x 7.59 x 5.86 inches
- Wireless pump tech
- Triple purification system
- LED indicator
Made with BPA-free materials the Homerunpet pet fountain offers 24/7 fresh and filtered water for your feline friend. Sadly, the fountain only provides one water flow option but this can be easily overlooked if your kitty simply enjoys drinking from flowing water. Its ergonomic design also accommodates kitties of any age and size with its handy and accessible tilted bowl.
Like other cat fountains featured here, this option also provides safe and clean drinking water thanks to its triple filtration system. However, this design incorporates coconut shell-activated carbon to completely remove bad odors and taste as opposed to the standard activated carbon.
- Tilted bowl
- Quiet system
- Simple to clean and disassemble
- Transparent window
- Only one apparent water flow option
14 PETKIT Cat Water Fountain
- Water storage: 1.85 liters
- Dimensions: 5.91 x 5.91 x 4.72 inches
- LED indicator light
- Power-saving smart mode
- Powered by USB cable
PETKIT offers pet parents a stylish alternative that comes in three different colors to suit any home’s interior. Not only does this design look great but it comes with an array of great features and promises your kitty companion a safe and reliable source of flowing water. To start, this fountain has a built-in LED indicator that can tell you whether the water is low, whether a filter change is needed, as well as what mode it is currently in (normal or smart mode).
Interestingly, the smart mode is there for owners to be able to save power by pumping water for three minutes followed by a three-minute rest. Furthermore, in addition to the indicator, its transparent exterior allows you to be able to monitor your pet’s water intake at a glance. Overall, PETKIT’s cat water fountain has some amazing features that you’ll definitely want to take a look into.
- Available in three colors
- Also suitable for small dogs
- Translucent material
- Smaller tank size compared to others
15 iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain
- Water storage: 2.1 liters
- Dimensions:10.7 x 10.7 x 5.5 inches
- Dual-layer filters
- Low AC voltage
- Corded
There are plenty of reasons why this stylish and easy-to-maintain option is on our list of best cat water fountains. Highly rated by previous customers, this cat fountain is eco-friendly and made with non-toxic materials. Moreover, it also contains a three-stage purification system to ensure your cat’s water is clean and safe to drink.
The large storage tank also means that you will not find yourself constantly having to top up the water supply or worry about your cat having little to no access to water while you’re away.
- 360-degree access
- Easy to clean
- Long life span
- Quiet operation
- Elegant design
- Expensive
- Not as durable as other fountains
Best Cat Water Fountains: Buying Guide & FAQs
How to Choose the Best Cat Water Fountain
There are several things to consider when looking for a cat fountain. Of course, some of these things are down to the individual’s preferences, but it’s still necessary to ensure that you buy a product that meets certain criteria. Below is a list of things to look out for when browsing cat fountains.
Energy consumption
Understandably, you may be concerned about how much energy a corded electric water fountain uses. Since you should keep it plugged in throughout the day, you may worry that a fountain will cost you more. Admittedly, most fountains won’t use much energy, but some use less than others and have power-saving options such as the PETKIT cat fountain.
Durability
To save yourself a lot of time and money, look around for durable options that will stand the test of time. However, you must never forget that these products will always last longer if you clean and maintain them regularly.
Material
Generally, pet parents can get their hands on plastic, ceramic/porcelain, and stainless steel fountains. All of which is perfectly fine as long as all components are made with non-toxic materials. Additionally, although plastic fountains tend to be cheaper, always make sure they are made with BPA-free plastic.
Note: If your kitty has reacted badly to plastic in the past, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of porcelain and stainless steel fountains on the market that won’t put your feline at risk of ‘cat acne’.
Easy to clean
Some will argue that the best cat fountain will be easy to clean, whether by hand or dishwasher. Most cat water fountains here are dishwasher safe (as stated in the descriptions), but others must be hand-washed to fend off bacteria build-up. The good news is that many designs don’t take up too much time to clean by hand and lack hard-to-reach areas.
Note: Consider the bowl’s material also, as some may be harder to clean than others or require more than just soap. For example, some stainless steel water fountains may hold onto watermarks or even begin to rust over time.
Easy to use
Typically, a standard water fountain for cats is easy to set up. However, you may need to consider how simple it is to disassemble to change the filters or other interior components. In addition, some models will have multiple filters, so it’s worth checking how often you will have to replace them.
In addition to this, consider how easy it is to change any settings on a cat water dispenser. Unfortunately, some options can come with over-complicated instructions if it includes water flow or LED settings. Fortunately, the options above are all known to be straightforward, so you won’t have to spend time checking out settings.
Noise
For those that are easily distracted, a whisper-quiet water dispenser is the best option. Nowadays, many designs feature quiet operation but will often start to make noise when the water level is low, so be sure to check the product description or even customer reviews before purchase.
Several water fountains feature a handy LED light to indicate low water levels. In addition, others will have a transparent or translucent design that allows you to see the water levels rather than alerting you with noise or lights.
Size
The bigger the water storage, the larger the cat fountain. If you need an alternative that won’t take up too much room, always check the dimensions and water storage before buying. In cases where you have more than one cat, a larger fountain may be necessary, but you can easily get hold of one that can be adjusted or even has varying levels/tiers to save space.
Attractiveness
Yes, it’s important to purchase a pet fountain that matches well with your home decor, but it’s even more crucial that your cat takes a liking to the product. It may take some time for your cat to become accustomed to the fountain, so you will undoubtedly have to allow a little time. However, if you have a fussy kitty, it may be worth investing in an alternative with a few water flow options. Also, the difference and change in options may pique your cat’s curiosity speeding up the process.
Additional items (optional)
This isn’t necessarily something you have to look out for when browsing cat fountains, but it’s worth looking for options that may include something extra. For example, some fountains come with additional replacement filters to save you money in the long run. Additionally, others may come with a silicone mat to prevent your floor from becoming damp.
Tips to Get Your Cat Drinking More Water
It’s no secret that most cats can be fussy, so how can you help your cat stay hydrated? As you may have guessed, a water fountain is one of the best solutions as many cats don’t like still water. You may also be surprised to learn that some felines are particularly fastidious regarding the placement of their water source, so putting it in the best area can often do the trick.
Alternatively, offering multiple water sources can be a great way to encourage/remind them to drink more. In addition to this, always make sure that their bowl is clean and that the water is fresh, as often cats are repelled by water they deem too dirty to drink from.
If you are looking for more options, check out our guide on water bowls for cats.
How to Maintain Your Cat Water Fountain
First of all, make sure you clean your fountain regularly. Cleaning will prevent the build-up of limescale and other bacteria that could damage the parts and even harm your kitty.
Make sure to get yourself replacement filters and switch them out every two-three weeks. Doing this ensures that the water will be healthy and safe for your cat to drink. Moreover, ensure you refill the fountain whenever necessary to prevent damage to the pump. A lot of designs will feature a transparent tank or indicator sensor/light so that you can keep an eye on the water levels.
Source:
- Jennifer Coates, DVM, How to Get Cats to Drink More Water, PetMD
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! There’s a reason why there are so many on the market as the best cat fountains are known to improve your cat’s health and quality of life by offering safe, filtered water.
Generally, cats can drink tap water without issue, but it is recommended for them to drink filtered water. This is why many recommend water fountains, as they remove any impurities and bad tastes or odors that might repel a feline away from their water bowl.
You can place your cat’s water fountain anywhere you may see fit as long as it’s not a tripping hazard. Generally, it’s recommended that you put your cat’s water bowl somewhere quiet.
Most fountains will offer guidance on the best time to change your cat’s water, so always read the instructions. As a basic reference, you should change the water every three to four days whenever the tank needs refilling.
Stainless steel or porcelain is generally recommended if your cat suffers from chin acne due to a plastic allergy. However, plastic is perfectly suitable if your cat has no known allergies.
Typically, cat drinking fountains don’t use much electricity, but some are more energy-efficient than others. Some options may include a power-saving mode that can help you reduce your energy bill.
Like humans, cats can become seriously unwell if they don’t drink enough water. Cats can become at risk of dehydration, leading to concerning health problems such as kidney failure. Cats can also be at risk of heatstroke in warmer months when they don’t drink enough.
How much cats drink depends on their circumstances. How much they should drink depends on their age, size, weight, diet, and health concerns. For example, a cat will need to increase their water intake if fed a dry kibble diet instead of wet food as it lacks moisture content.