Cat Water Fountains

While wet cat food contributes to your cat’s fluid intake, a source of fresh water remains essential, especially for dry food eaters. Many cats are drawn to moving water, and a cat drinking fountain can make staying hydrated more attractive, which may help reduce the risk of dehydration in cats. Here are a few more key advantages:

• Filtration: Most cat fountains use carbon or foam filters to clarify the tap water.
• Cooler temperature: Circulating water stays cooler for longer, which may be more appealing.
• Continuous freshness: Constant motion means less stagnation, which can deter bacteria build-up.

Tip: Pair your cat fountain with a water-resistant feeding mat to protect floors from potential spills.

There are many different cat fountains available, from modern cat water fountains with sleek designs to larger cat water dispensers with multi-cat capacity. Keep the following in mind before choosing:

• Maintenance: Look for models with easily removable water filters and dishwasher-safe components.
• Capacity: If you’re away during the day or have more than one cat, a higher-capacity cat water fountain bowl might be more practical.
• Noise level: Sensitive cats might not like noise from the pump or water movement. Luckily, low-noise or whisper-quiet models are available.
• Whisker-friendly: Wide, shallow bowls are often preferred by picky drinkers and can be more comfortable for sensitive whiskers.
• Power source: Most fountains require electricity, but battery-backup models are ideal if you experience outages or leave your cat home alone.

Tip: Consider an automatic cat feeder or cat water fountain filters to complement your fountain in simplifying daily care. 

Filters should generally be replaced every 2–4 weeks, but this can vary depending on the type of fountain, water quality in your area, and how many pets use it. A slowdown in water flow, unusual odours, or visible debris are all signs it’s time for a new filter. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific model.

Most cat water fountains are designed to run quietly, but some low-level humming or bubbling is normal. For sound-sensitive pets (or owners!), look for models advertised as ultra-quiet or low-noise, which often use whisper-quiet motors.

The ideal size depends on how many cats you have, how often you refill it, and your cat’s drinking habits. For single-cat homes, a smaller model with a 1–2 litre capacity may suffice. For multi-cat households or larger breeds, consider a higher-capacity cat water fountain (2.5–4 litres or more) to ensure a steady supply of water.

Yes, most cat fountains require electricity to power the water pump and keep the water circulating. Many plug into a wall socket or use a USB connection. Some modern cat water fountains offer battery-powered options or backup batteries for short-term use during power outages.