The 10 Best Cat Water Fountains to Buy in 2024
If there is one thing cats hate, it’s water. While most people know that cats don’t like to be covered in it, our feline friends are picky about the water they drink too. There is a good chance that you’ve observed your cat stroll over to their water dish, look at it, and walk the other way. You might not think they’re thirsty, but cats need water to prevent kidney problems, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and dehydration. To make your cat’s water more appealing and to ensure they’re getting the hydration they need, a pet fountain is ideal.
- Factors to Consider When Shopping for Cat Water Fountains
- Top 10 Best Cat Water Fountains 2024
- 1. Best Fountain Overall: Catit Flower Water Fountain
- 2. Highest Water Capacity Fountain: PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Water Fountain
- 3. Best Budget Fountain: Veken Pet Fountain
- 4. Best Fountain for Dogs and Cats: PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Water Fountain
- 5. Best Compact Fountain: MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser
- 6. Best Hands-Off Fountain: Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain
- 7. Best Fountain for Kittens: Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain
- 8. Best Premium Fountain: iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain
- 9. Quietest Fountain: Comsmart Cat Water Fountain
- 10. isYoung Cat Fountain
- Everything You Need to Know About Cat Water Fountains
- FAQ
- Final Thoughts
Factors to Consider When Shopping for Cat Water Fountains
Cats are furry, adorable, fun, and exciting, but most of all, they’re mysterious. While most pets need attention to thrive, cats tend to be more independent. A pet fountain is a great way to let your cat keep their independence, heighten their curiosity, and keep them hydrated. To learn what to keep in mind when shopping for the perfect fountain, read on.
Type
First and foremost, you want to consider the type of pet fountain that you’re looking at. There are a handful of pet fountains available, and each one works well, depending on your needs. Keep in mind, the type of fountain is more about preference over performance.
Unfortunately, it might be up to your cat and not you, so don’t be discouraged if they don’t like your choice. The good news is that there are only two types of fountains to look out for; flower fountains and faucet fountains.
Flower Fountains
Flower fountains tend to be small, and water flows out from a flower-like piece at the top of the fountain. The flower is generally made of plastic, and the water flows out from multiple sides down into a reservoir below the flower. There are a few different flowers you can find, like lotus fountains, but for the most part, most flower fountains work in the same way. Flower fountains are inexpensive and low in capacity.
Faucet Fountains
Faucet fountains function more like a faucet than a fountain, and rely on a single stream of water down into a reservoir. As the water flows down, it circulates the water down below and provides fresh water for your pet to drink. Faucet fountains look simple, but they’re more expensive than flower fountains because they can accommodate more pets. These fountains also benefit from a generous water capacity.
Capacity
The second feature you should look for is the amount of capacity that a fountain has. The capacity of a fountain is essential because it tells you how long you can go before you need to fill it again. For example, a fountain with three liters of capacity can last you over a month, while a fountain with less than two liters may only last you a few weeks.
Material
The final feature you want to consider is the material that a cat fountain is made out of. There are three common materials that you’ll find, and each one has its benefits and drawbacks. The three materials are stainless steel, plastic, and ceramic.
Stainless Steel
Most stainless steel fountains are not entirely stainless steel, but a mix between plastic and stainless steel. The majority of the unit will be plastic, but when we refer to a product’s material as stainless steel, we’re referring to the reservoir. The reservoir is where your furry friend will be drinking from, which is why that material is essential.
Stainless steel is an excellent material choice because it’s smooth, durable, and inexpensive. Plus, it gives the fountain a classy and expensive charm. Stainless steel is also great because it can be dishwasher-safe, and it doesn’t contain BPA. The only issue with stainless steel is that water can destroy it down over time, meaning they have a shorter lifespan than plastic and ceramic fountains.
Plastic
Plastic fountains are the most common fountains you’ll find, and there is a good reason for this. Plastic is a versatile material and holds up well against water. Plastic is also cheap, which makes plastic cat fountains an excellent budget option. If you’re shopping for a plastic fountain, just make sure that the plastic is food-grade, and doesn’t contain BPA. Otherwise, it can be potentially harmful to your little friend.
Ceramic
Ceramic is the least common material you’ll find, and the most expensive. The good news is that ceramic fountains are worth the price because they offer versatility and durability. Ceramic fountains can be used outdoors, and your cat will have a hard time tipping them over if they get curious.
Price
You might be thinking that a cat fountain is expensive, but cat fountains tend to be cheaper than you think. We’ve grouped each fountain into one of three categories.
$: Under $30
$$: Between $30 and $50
$$$: Over $50
Now that you know what to keep in mind while shopping, let’s get into our picks for the 10 best cat water fountains available today.
Top 10 Best Cat Water Fountains 2024
1. Best Fountain Overall: Catit Flower Water Fountain
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Catit Flower Water Fountain comes with a generous amount of water capacity for its size. Its low price tag and superior filtration make it one of the best options available.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Capacity: 3 liters
- Material: Plastic
- Type: Flower fountain
The Catit Flower Water Fountain comes with everything you need right out of the box. The fountain has a generous water capacity, and when the water level runs low, there is an LED indicator light that changes colors. This fountain also includes three separate water flow settings. Plus, even when the fountain is turned off, your cat can still drink from the pedals. Also, the plastic that Catit uses is BPA-free and food-grade.
For water filtration, the Catit Flower Water Fountain comes with three filters, and they’re replaceable once you run out. The water filtration is made up of three different layers of cotton mesh, active carbon, and even ion exchange. The cotton mesh filter removes debris, the carbon removes unwanted impurities, and the ion exchange makes the tap water soft enough for your cat to drink.
What Sets It Apart
The Catit Flower Water Fountain is unique because it combines innovation with ease of use. There are a lot of products that use batteries or three-prong power cords, but this fountain relies on a micro-USB for power, which makes it easy to assemble and use anywhere. While cats can see at night, the LED light is used for more than just water indication and can act as a night light to guide your cat to the bowl. When you combine the low price with these features, it’s hard to find a better pet fountain.
Things to Consider
While the Catit Flower Water Fountain comes with all of the features you need, it doesn’t have a lot of weight to it. This means that if your cat gets swat happy, they can end up knocking the fountain down and making a mess.
If you need a sturdier fountain, you might want to consider the iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain because the ceramic material has more weight to it.
Who It’s For
The Catit Flower Water Fountain is an excellent fit for any cat owner that needs a fountain. The design is simple and easy to use, includes a USB power cord to make set up a breeze, and features an impressive three-liter capacity. While the fountain is not sufficient for both cats and dogs, if you only have a cat, this is one of the best fountains around for the price.
Pros
- Generous water capacity
- LED night light and water level indication
- BPA-free plastic
- USB power source
Cons
- Prone to tipping if swatted
2. Highest Water Capacity Fountain: PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Water Fountain
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Water Fountain has one of the largest water capacities you can find. This makes it a great fountain if you have more than one pet that will be using it, or if you're looking for a hands-off approach.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Material: Plastic
- Type: Faucet fountain
The PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Water Fountain is a basic pet fountain that gets the job done. The design is simple and acts as a single faucet that circulates water in the reservoir of the fountain. This design is useful because it keeps the water from sitting still, but the reservoir will still fill up with water.
The built-in reservoir is an excellent feature because it allows your pet to drink water even if the fountain is not turned on. While the fountain is basic, there are a handful of different water flow settings you can use to adjust the stream of water that comes out.
All of the parts on the PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Fountain are dishwasher-safe, on the top rack, and made without BPA. As an additional safety measure for your cat, this fountain also comes with a carbon filter that reduces odors and removes potential toxins.
What Sets It Apart
While the PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Fountain is basic in design, the PetSafe brand is one of the best pet companies around. The company has been in business for over thirty years, and their customer support is based in the United States, making it easy to get in touch with them.
The brand aside, this faucet fountain has a massive water capacity that can last for well over a month, and all of the parts are dishwasher-safe. There are very few products that can be broken down and placed in the dishwasher, making this fountain one of the easiest to clean.
Things to Consider
The PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Fountain benefits from a basic design, but it lacks the versatility that flower fountains bring. First and foremost, the fountain cannot be used outdoors, and it can be difficult for your cat to drink water if the faucet is not flowing. Furthermore, the design is best suited for dogs over cats, meaning dog owners will find more value in this fountain.
If you want a fountain that’s specific to cats but you like the generous water capacity, the Catit Flower Water Fountain is your best bet.
Who It’s For
The PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Fountain is for pet owners that struggle to keep their cat or dog hydrated. Unfortunately, pets are not the best when it comes to drinking water, which can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Having free-flowing water can make water seem more appealing to picky pets, and the best part of this fountain is that it works for both cats or dogs. So, regardless of which pet you have, you can find value in the PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Fountain.
Pros
- Works for both dogs and cats
- Different flow settings to adjust the water flow
- BPA-free plastic
- Dishwasher-safe
- Generous water capacity
Cons
- Large size can be cumbersome
3. Best Budget Fountain: Veken Pet Fountain
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: While the Veken Pet Fountain isn't the cheapest around, it's the best value for your money. Its low cost and high-quality features give it great value, versatility, and longevity.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Capacity: 2.5 liters
- Material: Plastic and silicone
- Type: Flower fountain
The Veken Pet Fountain is well-made and affordable. The fountain uses a flower-design to keep water flowing freely from every side. While Veken uses plastic, its plastic is made without harmful chemicals like BPA, and it’s durable. The unit is also easy to assemble. It comes with an instruction manual that shows you precisely what you need to do with the AC adapter, AC pump, and filters.
Speaking of filtration, the Veken Pet Fountain uses a three-layer filter to ensure safe drinking water. The filters are made with a cotton layer that removes debris, a carbon filter for purity, and an ion exchange for taste.
To encourage your pet to drink, the fountain comes with LED lights and three different flow settings. The flow settings include bubbles, waterfall, and gentle fountain. Each parameter is appealing for different pets, making this fountain a good fit for either dogs or cats.
What Sets It Apart
The Veken Pet Fountain is unique because it includes an internal recirculating mechanism. The recirculating device works beneath the basin of the fountain and makes sure the water that flows from the fountain is properly oxygenated. For pets, having the proper level of oxygenation is ideal because it improves the taste and quality of the water. To reduce splashes, the fountain also includes a silicone pad, which is an excellent addition to the fountain.
Things to Consider
The Veken Pet Fountain is affordable and easy to use, but it’s not easy to clean. Some pet fountains, like the PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Fountain, include dishwasher-safe parts that make cleaning them a breeze. Unfortunately, to clean the Veken Pet Fountain, you’ll need to clean it by hand.
Who It’s For
The Veken Pet Fountain is for pet owners looking to experiment with a pet fountain. The design is simple to assemble and takes up minimal space. While the Veken Pet Fountain is inexpensive, the presence of advanced recirculation technology is impressive. It can be hard to make a costly decision, especially with a pet fountain, but the low cost makes this product a great choice if you’re on the fence but want a magnificent fountain.
Pros
- Great value
- Silicone mat is included
- BPA-free material
- LED indicator lights
- Internal water circulation
Cons
- Prone to tipping
- Not dishwasher-safe
4. Best Fountain for Dogs and Cats: PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Water Fountain
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain is ideal for both dogs and cats. It benefits from two levels that allow large dogs and small cats to drink water at the same time.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Capacity: 3 liters
- Material: Plastic
- Type: Faucet fountain
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain uses a unique multi-tier design. The top portion of the fountain acts as a faucet with a few different flow settings, and the bottom part of the basin acts as a bowl for water to land in. Thanks to this design, the fountain provides circulated and oxygenated water at both levels.
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain comes with a carbon filter that purifies water. While some carbon filters lack layers, this PetSafe filter includes three layers that filter out debris and other impurities. The plastic material is also BPA-free, and this fountain has one of the easiest pumps to repair if things break. You even get an instruction manual specifically for pump repair right out of the box.
What Sets It Apart
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain is unique because it uses a multi-tier design. While plenty of fountains get the job done, there are more drinking spaces with this fountain compared to others. For example, with the PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain, you can have over four pets taking a drink at the same time. For this reason, if you have a lot of pets, this fountain is ideal. The multi-tier design helps this faucet fountain compete with flower fountains in the same price range.
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain also has a waterproof pump, for quiet operation, and easy to repair. There are only four easy steps to take the pump apart and unclog or repair it. While PetSafe offers replacements, it’s nice to see an easy to fix pump right out of the box.
Things to Consider
While the multi-layer design works well for both cats and dogs, it’s not as effective as the flower fountain designs for cats. If you only have a cat, you’ll be better off with a product like the Wonder Creature Cat Fountain instead. Flower fountains appeal to a cat’s curiosity, and this fountain doesn’t have any unique design features to spike a cat’s interest.
Who It’s For
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain is one of the best fountains to use with more than one pet. The multi-tier design makes it useful for both dog and cat owners, and both pets can drink from the fountain at the same time. If you have two pets, a dog and a cat, this fountain is a great option.
Pros
- Great for both dogs and cats
- BPA-free plastic
- Excellent filtration
- Generous water capacity
Cons
- Bulky design
- Tough to clean
5. Best Compact Fountain: MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser is a great compact fountain because it doesn't sacrifice water capacity. While the unit is small, it still holds enough water for care-free operation.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Capacity: 2 liters
- Material: Plastic
- Type: Flower fountain
The MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser is a simple fountain that lures animals in with its blue color. The material is BPA-free, for both the plastic fountain and silicone mat. There are a handful of LED lights to be used as a guiding tool, or to show you how low or high the water level is. Overall, it’s simple yet easy to use.
The MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser also comes with three replaceable filters, and the entire unit can be taken apart and put together with ease. The filters leverage cotton, carbon, and an ion exchange to purify your pet’s drinking water. Also, the flower fountain has three water flow settings that make it great for different pets. These settings include bubbles, flower waterfall, and waterfall.
What Sets It Apart
The MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser is unique because it uses a blue color that animals can see. Animals like cats and dogs are not able to see color in the same way that humans can, which can lead to issues when it comes time to grab a drink. The blue color that the MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser uses allows animals to see the color and lures them in too.
Things to Consider
The MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser is one of the cheapest options you can find, but in this case, you get what you pay for. While the product is well made, it doesn’t have the same quality that top-tier cat fountains have. For example, the plastic can be flimsy, and the silicone mat lacks durability.
If you need a low-cost cat fountain, but are willing to pay a few extra bucks, we recommend the Veken Pet Fountain because it has the same design without cheap materials.
Who It’s For
The MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser is for pet owners that aren’t too concerned with the quality, but more focused on the price. This fountain is one of the cheapest options you can find, and for the price, it’s made fairly well. While it lacks unique design features, it incorporates most of the features that high-end cat fountains use.
Pros
- Compact design
- Easy to assemble and take apart
- Three-layer filter
- BPA-free plastic
- Blue color lures cats in
Cons
- Low water capacity compared to larger fountains
- Cheap plastic
6. Best Hands-Off Fountain: Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain is ideal for people looking to get started with a pure fountain. We love how LED lights tell you all of the information you need, and the pump doesn't burn out because it turns off on its own.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Capacity: 2.4 liters
- Material: Plastic and stainless steel
- Type: Flower fountain
The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain uses a flower fountain design to make sure your cat always has the water they need. Water is safe to drink, and it’s filtered through three layers of cotton, carbon, and an ion exchange. The cotton removes debris, the carbon purifies, and the ion exchange enhances the taste of the water. Aside from being filtered, the water that remains in the reservoir is also safe to drink because it’s made with stainless steel that’s BPA-free and food-grade.
The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain also comes with a few bells and whistles that make it simple to monitor water levels and water flow. There are a handful of different flow settings to customize your cat’s drinking experience, and the fountain has color-coded indicators for water levels and water storage. Also, whenever the pump is running, water is continuously being aerated. These features make it one of the most straightforward fountains to operate.
What Sets It Apart
The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain uses a unique LED indication system to help you monitor water levels. While other fountains have these, the LED lights don’t do nearly as much as this fountain. For example, the light will change colors based on the water level, and alert you when it’s time to remove or add more water into the fountain. While the LED light works well, the fountain is also smart enough to turn off when water levels are too low to preserve the lifespan of the pump.
Things to Consider
The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain is a well-rounded product, but that doesn’t make it perfect. Our biggest problem with this fountain is that the lid is not cat friendly. You know how cats are, they like to move things around and knock stuff over. Unfortunately, your cat might have a good time sending the lid flying and making a mess.
While this is less of a problem for older cats, kittens and cats under a year or two are going to have a field day with it. If you have a younger cat, you might want to consider a product like the Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain instead.
Who It’s For
The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain is for pet owners that have older cats. Older cats tend to be calm, and having the fountain do most of the work is a great way to give older cats the freedom they need. This fountain is also great for busy pet owners that might not be paying attention to the level of water in the basin. The lights will notify you, and the pump will shut off to save power.
Pros
- Low price
- BPA-free material
- Innovative LED lights
- Automatic pump shut-off
Cons
- The plastic feels cheap
7. Best Fountain for Kittens: Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Pioneer Pet Swan Drinking Fountain benefits from a sleek swan-neck design that spikes a cat's interest and looks matches most home decor.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Capacity: 2.5 liters
- Material: Plastic
- Type: Faucet fountain
The Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain is a simple fountain that’s easy to clean and work with. The plastic is dishwasher-safe, BPA-free, and easy to take apart. To set the fountain up, all you need is a USB power source, which makes it easy to set up in any location. The USB power cord also means you don’t need to worry about finding the right power adapter. While we don’t recommend it, you can even power this fountain with your laptop, which shows how hassle-free the set up is.
The swan-head design is beneficial because it creates a single flowing stream of water. Cats dislike still water, so think of this fountain as giving them their little sink. For filtration, this fountain uses a charcoal filter that filters out impurities within the water.
What Sets It Apart
The Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain stands out thanks to its swan-neck design. While there are plenty of faucet style cat fountains, none of them look as lovely as this one. Not only does this product look lovely in your home, but the design appeals to cats. What does that mean? It means that your cat’s curiosity will come alive every time they get thirsty. This is important, especially for male cats, because they don’t always drink enough water.
Things to Consider
While the Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain gets the job done, our main concern is the filter. We love the charcoal style filter, and it works, but it doesn’t work as well as layered filters. Sure, it will purify water, but you still might end up with debris and pet hair in the reservoir of the fountain.
If you like the faucet style, but prefer a layered filter, the PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Water Fountain is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
The Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain works well for pet owners that have trouble getting their cat to drink water, and people that have kittens. Cats hate stagnant water, and let’s face it: they can be picky pets. The swan-neck is an excellent option for picky cats because it will pique their interest and lure them in. If you’re having trouble keeping your pet hydrated, this fountain is bound to help.
The swan-neck design is excellent for kittens because they won’t harm themselves trying to reach their neck over the bowl. While the design will lure them in, the fountain is safe enough for kittens to drink from. If you have a kitten, this fountain is the best option.
Pros
- Swan-neck design lures cats in
- BPA-free plastic
- USB power source
Cons
- Charcoal filter is not as effective as carbon filters
- Low water capacity
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain looks excellent indoors and works well outdoors. We love how cats can't tip it over, and the foam filter is superior to many carbon and charcoal filters available.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Capacity: 2.1 liters
- Material: Ceramic
- Type: Flower fountain
The iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain offers a unique approach to pet fountains with its ceramic design. The ceramic material is sturdy, tough to knock over, and safer than most plastic fountains. Another benefit of the ceramic design is that it looks like a beautiful piece of home decor that matches most rooms. While the fountain seems nice, the lotus design is fascinating for pets as the water flows out quietly in three directions.
The iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain uses two types of water filtration. To make drinking water safe, the fountain uses an ultra-fine foam filter that removes debris, purifies water, and enhances the taste. While most filters focus solely on your pet, this filter also keeps pet hair from clogging up the pump.
Furthermore, the pump is CE certified, making it 100% waterproof. The pump also benefits from being submerged because the water masks the noise it produces, leaving only the sound of water dripping out of the fountain.
What Sets It Apart
The iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain is unique because of its ceramic material. There are plenty of fountains that come with a quiet and lower power pump, but nothing looks and performs as well as this ceramic fountain. Compared to stainless steel and plastic, ceramic is safer, easier to clean, and more durable. Plus, while it may seem like one large fountain, every part is detachable.
Things to Consider
While the ceramic design is impressive and second to none, that doesn’t mean the fountain is perfect. Unfortunately, ceramic does not break in the same way that steel and plastic does. For example, while most pet fountains can handle a small amount of abuse, the ceramic can crack. If the ceramic cracks, it’s difficult to patch and fix, meaning you’re out one expensive pet fountain.
Sure, ceramic has benefits, but you still need to be careful with it. If you like the premium design and features, but prefer a material like stainless steel, the Comsmart Cat Water Fountain.
Who It’s For
The iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain is for pet owners looking for a high-end fountain that has a lot of uses. For example, the waterproof pump and ceramic material make it one of the few pet fountains that you can use outdoors. While you need to be careful with the ceramic, it’s one of the best fountains around if you have the budget for a premium cat fountain.
Pros
- Sturdy ceramic material
- Safe to use outdoors
- Foam filter with coconut shell
- Tip-proof
Cons
- Heavy
- Prone to cracking if dropped or knocked over
- Low water capacity
9. Quietest Fountain: Comsmart Cat Water Fountain
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Comsmart Cat Water Fountain is the perfect blend of quiet and compact. We love how you'll barely notice this fountain, even if you leave it on all day.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Capacity: 2.5 liters
- Material: Plastic and stainless steel
- Type: Flower fountain
The Comsmart Cat Water Fountain is made well and works well. The fountain benefits from a stainless steel reservoir that’s easy to clean and resistant to bacteria and mold. While the rest of the unit is made with plastic, the stainless steel reservoir gives the product a touch of class and high-end performance.
For safety, the Comsmart Cat Water Fountain is BPA-free and made with other food-grade materials. The fountain also comes with three replacement filters that come with three different layers of filtration. The cotton layer is excellent for removing debris, a carbon layer rests behind the cotton layer for purity, and the final layer uses ion exchange to deliver fresh water to the reservoir each time.
What Sets It Apart
The Comsmart Cat Water Fountain comes with an upgraded pump that puts other cat fountains to shame. This pump lasts between two and four years and uses a low amount of power, only 1.5 watts. While that’s enough to make this pump reliable, the best feature is the ultra-quiet design. Water pumps can be loud, but this pump produces less than forty decibels of sound.
Things to Consider
The Comsmart Cat Water Fountain is made well, but the stainless steel design is not always reliable. There is a reason that companies use plastic reservoirs, and that’s because they’re easy to clean and maintain. Stainless steel is sturdy, and in many cases, safer than plastic, but once it becomes tarnished, it’s no longer food-grade.
So, unfortunately, this means that you have to be a lot more thorough when it comes to cleaning the fountain. If you like the flower fountain style, and the low price, the Veken Pet Fountain is a great alternative that’s almost identical.
Who It’s For
The Comsmart Cat Water Fountain is for parents that need a compact and minimalistic design. The fountain is small, the perfect size for cats, and emits a low level of noise. It’s one of those products that you might forget you have; your cat won’t, though.
Pros
- Durable and quiet pump
- Compact design
- Food-grade and BPA-free stainless steel reservoir
Cons
- Stainless steel reservoir is prone to tarnishing
- Low water capacity
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The isYoung Cat Fountain is subtle, yet impressive. It benefits from a compact design but incorporates plenty of innovative features.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Capacity: 1.6 liters
- Material: Plastic
- Type: Flower fountain
The isYoung Cat Fountain is a small cat Fountain that’s safe and easy to work with. The plastic material is BPA-free, and the water is filtered. The filters are carbon-based and work well for purifying water and removing potentially harmful chemicals. The fountain is compact and small, making it easy to set up anywhere in your home.
The fountain allows your pet to drink water with three different settings. The bubble setting is gentle, the flower waterfall setting is a calm stream, and the waterfall system is designed for larger animals like dogs. With these settings, the fountain is versatile and efficient for more than one type of pet.
What Sets It Apart
The isYoung Cat Fountain is unique because it features noise-canceling technology. The pump makes little noise, and even when it does, the sound is quickly canceled out. This fountain is also unique because it incorporates quick-release components that are easy to remove, attach, and clean. Unlike a lot of other products, the safety of this fountain has been verified by the FDA.
Things to Consider
While this fountain works well, there is a significant drawback. If the water level falls too low, the pump can end up getting too dry. Sadly, this can cause the pump to burnout and break rapidly if you’re not paying attention. For busy pet owners, this can be a problem, and while the cost is low, it gets expensive when you have to shop for a new pump.
To avoid this problem, it’s a good idea to go with a product like the Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain because it has a feature that automatically turns the pump off.
Who It’s For
The isYoung Cat Fountain is for pet owners that need a low price fountain. The fountain is cheap and easy to work with, with plenty of features to keep both you and your cat entertained. While it has one of the lowest prices around, you do get what you pay for, and the quality isn’t up to par with fountains that are only more expensive by a few bucks. So, that’s something you’ll have to consider.
Pros
- Affordable for every budget
- BPA-free material
- Three-layer filter
Cons
- Low water capacity
- The pump is prone to burning out
- Tough to clean
Everything You Need to Know About Cat Water Fountains
It seems like cat fountains are complicated, but they’re straightforward once you get to know them. Shopping for a cat fountain is easy when you have the best products in front of you, but that’s not always enough. Different pet owners have different needs, so we’re going to help you narrow down your options. If you’re still on the fence about a cat fountain, or which one you like, read on!
Why a Cat Fountain Is Necessary
If you’re reading this article, regardless of how you got here, there is a good chance that you’re skeptical about cat fountains. We get it and understand that it might seem over-the-top, so we’re going to show you why you might need one. Keep in mind: we’re not trying to scare you—we just want you to be well informed.
Cats need to drink between seven and nine ounces of water every day, depending on their body weight. To give you some perspective, that’s about half of a water bottle per day. If that’s the case, you might be wondering if that’s true because you rarely see your cat drink from their bowl, and there is a reason for this. If water is left at room temperature, still, or tasteless, your cat won’t be motivated to drink it.
Unfortunately, if your cat fails to drink enough water, there can be a handful of negative health implications, some of which can be deadly. The problem is that cats are excellent at hiding their health issues, making it hard to know whether or not they’re drinking enough water. If you’re curious to know, be sure to check your cat for sticky gums, bad breath, bowel issues, kidney disease, panting, elevated heart rate, less urination, lethargy, and sunken eyes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to increase your cat’s water intake. This can be done by feeding your cat more canned wet food, stirring their water, or adding ice to their bowl. While this works most of the time, it’s not always enough, and this is where cat fountains come into play.
Cat fountains inspire curiosity and help water taste good and remain safe to drink. Cat fountains also make your life easier because you don’t need to pay as much attention to them. After all, they store water. A good pet owner wants to make sure their little friend is okay, and a cat fountain is a great way to make sure your cat remains hydrated.
So, If you’re still on the fence, or just looking to experiment, we recommend starting with a reliable budget product like the Veken Pet Fountain. This fountain is inexpensive but provides top-tier functionality.
Choosing an Easy Fountain to Work With
If you’re worried about the difficulties that come with a cat fountain, choosing one that works with little to no intervention is the way to go. While some cat fountains are hands-on, the Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain does most of the work for you.
A lot of pumps can burn out if the water level becomes too low, but the Wonder Creature pump notifies you with LED lights and automatically shuts down if there isn’t enough water within the unit. If you need an easy fountain, this product is an excellent choice.
Faucet Fountain or Flower Fountain?
Faucet fountains and flower fountains do the same job but handle water differently. Faucet fountains resemble a sink, whereas flower fountains closely resemble traditional outdoor fountains. Choosing between the two types of fountains can be difficult, but each one has strengths and weaknesses.
Flower Fountains
Flower fountains are well-rounded fountains that are designed primarily for cats. The water flows from all sides, and many of them have internal water circulation, oxygenation, and filters to ensure drinking water is clean. If you only have a cat or a few cats, it’s a great idea to go with a flower fountain.
Flower fountains are also best suited for older cats. Younger cats tend to have a lot of energy, which can lead to the fountain being tipped or knocked over. Also, if a cat is too small to reach the drinking area, it can lead to neck problems. So, flower fountains should only be considered if your cat is over two years old.
Flower fountains typically come with different flow settings and let your cat drink from them even when they’re turned off, which is why they’re perfect for cats. If you want the best, the Catit Flower Water Fountain is the best flower fountain around.
Faucet Fountains
Faucet fountains also work well for cats, but can appeal to other pets too. These fountains function the same but use a single-stream to fill the reservoir. Drinking primarily occurs in the pool, but larger pets can drink right from the stream.
Faucet fountains are ideal for kittens because the drinking area is not too high off the ground. Even the smallest cats can reach the bowl, making it safe on their necks. If you have a little cat, either go with a faucet fountain or wait until they reach around two years old.
If you like the idea of a faucet fountain, for a cat, the Pioneer Pet Swan Pet Drinking Fountain is the best option. Not only does the fountain perform as well as flower fountains, but the swan-neck design spikes a cat’s curiosity.
Choosing the Right Filter
When you shop for a cat fountain, you’ll come across many different filters. There are carbon-based filters and charcoal-based filters, and both filters get the job done. Not every fountain needs to work hard at water purification, and most cats will do fine with tap water, but some filters are better than others.
If pure water is your primary concern, you should consider getting a filter that comes with three layers. These are carbon-based filters that use cotton for debris removal, carbon for purification, and include an ion exchange for taste. The best cat fountains for filtration are flower fountains like the isYoung Cat Fountain and Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain.
Choosing the Best Pump
The pump of a pet fountain is its heart and soul. With the wrong pump, a fountain will end up clogging, creating noise, or breaking. Shopping for the perfect pump can be difficult, but the best pet fountains all come with great pumps that perform well and offer longevity.
With that being said, the Comsmart Cat Water Fountain has one of the best pumps you can find. The Comsmart pump produces less than forty decibels of noise, is waterproof, and uses less than two watts of power.
Shopping for Cats and Dogs
While many people prefer cats to dogs or vice versa, we know that many of you like both. It’s a myth that cats and dogs don’t get along, and more often than not, you’ll find your pets bonding and playing with each other. If you have both a cat and a dog, and like the idea of a pet fountain, there is no need to feel left out.
Some pet fountains can be beneficial to both cats and dogs. In this case, you’ll want to shy away from flower fountains and pursue a faucet fountain instead. An excellent faucet fountain that works well for cats and dogs, even if they’re drinking at the same time, is the PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat and Dog Water Fountain because it features two separate drinking levels.
Space-Saving Cat Fountains
The idea of a cat fountain can be alarming because it sounds like a bulky product. When you look at a traditional fountain, most of the time, they’re bigger than your average cat bowl.
Luckily, not all cat fountains are massive, and some take up little space. If you need a cat fountain, but don’t have a lot of space, the MOSPRO Pet Fountain Cat Water Dispenser is a great compact cat fountain. While it’s small, it boasts impressive water capacity and plenty of features for its size.
Need an Outdoor Fountain?
Plastic and stainless steel fountains tend to work well indoors, but on a lovely spring or summer day, your pet can appreciate some time outdoors. While some cats are indoor, we know that some cats love to hang around outside. If you know that your cat likes to spend some time relaxing in the fresh air, an outdoor fountain is a great way to keep them hydrated during a warm day.
An excellent choice for an outdoor fountain is the iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain because of the ceramic design. The ceramic material is strong enough to resist warping in hot weather and stands up well against the elements.
FAQ
How Do Cat Fountains Work?
Cat fountains work by circulating water through a pump and filter. Once the water is filtered, when the pump is turned on, water will flow out from the nozzle into a reservoir. The design is relatively simple, regardless of the fountain. Simply plug it in, fill it with water, and watch the magic happen.
Are Fountains Safe for Cats?
Fountains are safe for cats of all ages, and in many cases, they’re more reliable than your average cat bowl. Fountains make sure your cat stays hydrated, which prevents numerous health problems from happening. Most cat fountains also use food-grade and BPA-free materials that make them safe to drink from, even if you want to take a sip.
How Do I Maintain My Cat Fountain?
Maintaining your cat fountain is vital to its longevity. If you fail to keep your cat fountain clean properly, it will end up failing you and your cat. Luckily, maintaining a cat fountain can be simple.
Always be sure to change the filter at least once a month, or every two liters, and check on the pump once a month as well. If you notice that the pump is clogged, be sure to remove any debris to prevent damage.
Where Should I Place a Cat Fountain?
You should place your cat fountain wherever your cat will have access to it. In most cases, the placement doesn’t matter because the fountain is guaranteed to grab your cat’s attention. On the other hand, you might want to put it somewhere that matches your decor, or it might stand out in a bad way.
Final Thoughts
Shopping for pet fountains is no easy task. They seem complicated and look expensive, but you’ll find that most of them will make your life easier. If you want to make sure your cat is hydrated, a cat fountain is a great way to do so. While canned wet food and water bowls work, let’s face it, some cats are just picky.
The good news is that most cat fountains are affordable, take up minimal space, and last a long time. Plus, even if you have a dog, a pet fountain can be a great asset for them too. Feel free to experiment with different fountains until you find one that works the best for your furry little friend!
