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.

A Quick Overview of Our Favorites

Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
Rating
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Catit Senses 2.0 Flower Fountain
Easy to clean Stores 3l of water
Requires frequent cleaningCats may not take to its silent operation
A great stainless steel option with adequate water storage.
4.5
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PetSafe Seaside Stainless Pet Water Fountain
Dishwasher safe componentsBubbling waterflow
Holds less water than other options.
Complete with a bubbling water flow that encourages cats to drink more.
4.5
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NPET 1.5L Automatic Cat Water Fountain
Transparent water tankEco-friendly material
Basic design doesn’t include an adaptor
A simple, plastic design complete with water stream.
4.5
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PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain
Includes emergency water storageMade with BPA-free plastic
Expensive
Comes with a continuous stream and bubbling fountain feature.
4.4
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PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Cat And Dog Drinking Fountain
Also suitable for small & medium-sized dogsMade with Porcelain
ExpensiveLoud compared to others
An energy efficient, stylish option great for homes with multiple pets.
4.4
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Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain Stainless Steel
Great for multi-cat homesDishwasher safe
Fewer filters
Great for those that are specifically looking for a stylish, silent fountain.
4.1
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Veken Pet Fountain
Three water flow optionsComes with silicone mat
Some filter quality issues in the past
Regardless of past issues, this is still a highly-rated option on the market that continuously sells.
4.4
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PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Fountain
Multi-tierDurable plastic material
No alternative water flow modes
Great for those looking for a fountain with a large water storage capacity.
4.2
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Drinkwell Platinum Plastic Dog & Cat Fountain
Large water storageAlso suitable for dogs
Not as easy to clean
A durable, modern design suitable for cats and small dogs.
4.3
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Kastty Cat Water Fountain With LED Indicator Light
LED light indicator Can be used outdoors
Basic water flow (no stream)
A popular and colorful choice with great additional features.
4.5
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Key Takeaways:

  1. Many cats prefer drinking from running water instead of still water from a dish.
  2. Water fountains provide cats with a source of running water and are also very hygienic.
  3. Some cats are attracted to the sounds of flowing water, so quiet operation fountains may not be the best option in some instances.
  4. 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.
  5. Indoor cats may not drink as much as their outdoor counterparts as they don't burn as much energy.
  6. Multitiered fountains are great for senior or arthritic pets that struggle when leaning in to drink.
  7. 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

Catit Senses 2.0 Flower Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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Bought this to keep my cat hydrated. I have a small space and kept knocking over his water dish or found unsightlies floating in it when I’d refresh it. I like this lil fountain because it gives him a decent supply of clean, filtered water and keeps him out of my bathroom.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • 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
Cons
  • 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
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2 PetSafe Seaside Stainless Pet Water Fountain

PetSafe Seaside Stainless Pet Water Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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It’s the best fountain I ever bought. I have 2 cats, an older and a younger. They both love the fountain. It took them a day or two to get used to how it works and where it’s best to drink from. They drink about a quart more water a day then before, which is really important for my older cat who is prone to kidney crystals. It’s very quiet, the instructions were very clear and easy to assemble. I wish the flow was adjustable, but the cats got used to it, so no problem there. Highly recommended.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • All parts (excluding the pump) are dishwasher safe
  • Also suitable for small dogs
  • Easy to clean
  • Rust and scratch proof
Cons
  • Doesn’t hold as much water as other pet water fountains
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3 NPET 1.5L Automatic Cat Water Fountain

NPET 1.5L Automatic Cat Water Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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Very easy to assemble and clean. I love the clear body so I can see the water clarity. And the filter actually works, compared to other fountains I’ve tried. You can see food particles and debris that’s been filtered out. Great product for cats or small dogs!

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Transparent water tank
  • Easy to clean
  • Suitable for dogs
  • Sloped design
Cons
  • Basic design doesn’t include an adaptor or sensor
  • Doesn’t hold as much water as other pet water fountains
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4 PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain

PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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My cats have had 3 different fountains now & this is by far the best. It’s SO easy to clean, with no weird curves or strange corners that collect the biofilm that can build up in fountains. It’s the perfect option if you have two cats who prefer different ways to drink. One of mine will only drink from the spout & the other will only drink from the bowl part. There’s enough space that the one who drinks from the bowl doesn’t get splashed with the spout & the dish is nice & shallow to avoid whisker fatigue over time.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Ultra-quiet fountain
  • Available in more colors
  • Easy to assemble
Cons
  • Expensive compared to other fountains
  • Some recent feedback about poor structure quality
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5 PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Cat and Dog Drinking Fountain

PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Cat and Dog Drinking Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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Delivered with no damage, easily set up (3 minutes) The Cats like it, holds a good amount of water for the 3 full sized cats. I like it sounds like a table fountain

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Perfect for households with multiple animals
  • Stylish design
  • Available in three colors
  • Easy to clean
Cons
  • Expensive choice compared to others
  • Not as quiet as other cat water fountains
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6 Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain Stainless Steel

Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain Stainless Steel
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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Our Siamese cat had a recurrent problem with dehydration despite always having fresh water and eating wet food. She just didn’t like drinking out of a bowl. We also tried several other fountains, but this one finally did the trick. She loves to lap the water as it flows out of the top. If your cat/s have similar issues, give this fountain a try. We also ordered the additional filters, and make sure to keep the fountain very clean.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Raindrop design
  • Great for multiple cats
  • Also suitable for small dogs
  • Quiet operation
  • Dishwasher safe
Cons
  • Not rated as highly as other products featured here
  • Fewer filters
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7 Veken Pet Fountain

Veken Pet Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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I loved this so much I actually went back and bought a 2nd one for our 1st floor. Our cat loves it and it’s quiet enough to not disturb anyone. We have one in our bedroom and can sleep no issue. It’s cute and takes up next to no space.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Low consumption pump
  • Made with BPA-free plastic
  • Available in two colors
  • Includes silicone mat
Cons
  • Some previous customers have commented about the quality of the filters
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8 PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-tier Pet Fountain

PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-tier Pet Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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I take terrible care of the fountains and forget to add water all the time. The motors should have burned out ages ago but it still works! Don’t worry my cats have multiple water sources :). Had it for 5 years and no problems. Easy to clean and put back together.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Durable
  • Quiet operation
  • Great reviews online
Cons
  • No adjustable water flow
  • May make noise when water level decreases
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9 Drinkwell Platinum Plastic Dog & Cat Fountain

Drinkwell Platinum Plastic Dog & Cat Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
image

Great Product. Easy set up. Strong and durable. Better than most.
Most of the fountains for Cats are about 6 inches high, this fountain is 10 inches making it much easier for them to drink, in my opinion.
Nicely Designed parts fit together well. They have used engineering grade materials , most are made from soft polypropylene.

I recommend this product.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • 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
Cons
  • Previous customers have commented that it may not be easy to clean
  • May require frequent cleaning
Show More

10 Kastty Cat Water Fountain With LED Indicator Light

Kastty Cat Water Fountain With LED Indicator Light
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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We really like the convenience and cleanliness of this device. It provides about a weeks worth of water for one cat. The filters last about 3-4 weeks each so maintenance is easy. Setup took less than 10 minutes. Our cat wasn’t sure about it at first but likes it now. Overall a good buy.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Also suitable for small dogs
  • Super quiet
  • Handy features to let you know to refill
  • Highly rated by previous customers
Cons
  • Doesn’t feature a flowing stream
  • To use outdoors, you must purchase a portable battery not already included
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11 Cat Mate Genuine Pet 3-Level Fountain

Cat Mate Genuine Pet 3-Level Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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This simple to clean watering fountain has worked out perfectly for our Maine Coon and American Shorthair cats.This has been the best watering container for my cats. It is so simple to clean, put together and keep full. It may seem a little small for many cats, but is perfect for my two. It is just the right size for me to check on every other day and make sure they get fresh water. Cat’s love it, I love it…what more can I say

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Also suitable for dogs
  • Good value
  • Quiet operation
Cons
  • Basic design with no color variations
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12 Lu&Ba Cat Water Fountain

Lu&Ba Cat Water Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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This is the best cat water fountain! The water is always filtered so it maintains freshness all day for your cat. The sound is so light I can’t even hear it most of the time. The best part is the easy spout that dispenses the water to the bowl. It isn’t like other cat water fountains that splashes the water into the bowl, so my highly anxious cat isn’t scared to use it. I definitely notice a difference in my cats water intake after purchasing this product. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it the same as I did!

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Easy to clean
  • 360-degree access
  • Simple assembly
  • Two modern designs to choose from
Cons
  • Will need regular care to maintain the pump
  • Only one water flow option
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13 Homerunpet Cat Water Fountain with Wireless Pump

Homerunpet Cat Water Fountain with Wireless Pump
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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My pets love this fountain. It’s very quiet. It also has an intermittent mode that allows for cycling of water so pets don’t over drink. The filters work very well to make the water clean. Overall very easy to set up and directions for the modes are simple to set. The fountain has a very sleek and eye pleasing design. I also received three extra filters from the seller (very generous, thank you so much!!). Very pleased with this product.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Tilted bowl
  • Quiet system
  • Simple to clean and disassemble
  • Transparent window
Cons
  • Only one apparent water flow option
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14 PETKIT Cat Water Fountain

PETKIT Cat Water Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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My cats are never interested in anything but they absolutely love this thing. I feel bad I didn’t get it for them sooner. Now they are well hydrated and they are sure to let me know when it needs to be refilled.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Available in three colors
  • Also suitable for small dogs
  • Translucent material
Cons
  • Smaller tank size compared to others
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15 iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain

iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain
Key features:
  • 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.

What others say about it:
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I’ve used iPettie fountains for years. This is the only fountain I’ve found that does NOT make an annoying humming sound. All you hear is the water splashing, and that’s not loud. On top of that, iPettie provides a nice supply of filters and even an extra little filtering engine. I couldn’t be happier with this fountain and I highly recommend it.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • 360-degree access
  • Easy to clean
  • Long life span
  • Quiet operation
  • Elegant design
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Not as durable as other fountains
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Best Cat Water Fountains: Buying Guide & FAQs

How to Choose the Best Cat Water Fountain

Scottish cat drinking water from a pet 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

Thirsty tabby cat drinking water from a pet drinking fountain. Side view with copy space.

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:

  1. 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.

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