Plenty of cat owners notice their cat ignores the water bowl but will happily drink from a dripping tap. A water fountain tries to give them that moving water all day. Does your cat need one? Not necessarily, but it can help.
Why water matters for cats
Cats often don't drink much, especially those on dry food, and some are fussy about their water. Fresh water should always be available. Many owners find their cat drinks more readily when the water is moving and cool.
Simple ways to encourage drinking
- Keep water away from food. Many cats prefer their water bowl in a different spot from their food bowl and litter tray.
- Offer more than one water station, especially in a bigger home or with more than one cat.
- Use a wide, shallow bowl so whiskers don't touch the sides.
- Change the water daily.
- Try moving water with a fountain.
Pros and cons of a fountain
Pros
- Moving, filtered water that many cats find more appealing than a still bowl
- Holds more water than a typical bowl, so it doesn't run dry as quickly
- A filter catches hair and bits that would otherwise sit in the bowl
Cons
- It needs power, so it has to sit near a socket or USB plug
- It needs regular cleaning: a fountain left for weeks is worse than a fresh bowl
- Some cats are wary of the sound or movement at first
How to keep a fountain clean
- Top up the water every day or two.
- Take it apart and rinse it about once a week, including the pump area.
- Rinse or replace the filter as the maker recommends.
- Never let the pump run dry.
UK and US power
Check the plug before you buy. Our quiet 1.2L fountain comes in USB, US plug and EU plug versions. In the UK, choose the USB version and use any standard USB phone charger plug.
When to talk to your vet
A sudden change in how much your cat drinks, especially drinking a lot more than usual, can be a sign of a health problem. Don't just buy a bigger fountain: book a vet check.
Our fountain
The Quiet Cat Water Fountain with Filter holds 1.2 litres, measures about 15 × 15 × 9 cm, has a built-in filter and is designed for quiet running. It suits cats and small dogs.
These guides are general information, not veterinary advice. If you're worried about your pet's health, eating or drinking, speak to your vet.