When it comes to drinking water, my cats are rarely up to the task. Unlike my dog who races toward the water bowl every time he hears the faucet running, I’m lucky if I see my cat sipping out of their bowl five times a week. Their empty water bowls are proof they use it; I just hardly see it. Just like people, cats need a certain amount of water per day in order to stay healthy. For the average adult cat, they need about 4 ounces per every five pounds.
But just like us, cats also want to enjoy fresh water. When you’re at work all day, this isn’t always feasible, so one alternative I recommend is a water fountain. Here’s everything you need to know about them (including my own personal experience with how it saved my cat’s life…sort of).
What is a Cat Water Fountain? And How Does it Work?
A cat water fountain is exactly what it sounds like: a water fountain for cats. Water is placed inside the fountain and then filtered through a tube so the cat always feels like they’re drinking fresh water.
Why Are They Necessary?
Even though cats don’t like the feel of water on their skin or fur, it doesn’t stop them from being attracted to the sound or sight of running water. Furthermore, depending on the cat, they may feel too intimidated to drink from their water bowl if it’s secluded in a corner of the kitchen or bedroom. As mentioned above, cats need a certain amount of water to survive, so a water fountain is a great way to entice them to drink more.
Not only are they interesting to cats, but they can get them to drink more water since it creates the illusion that it’s fresh. Cats will sometimes avoid water if it looks stagnant, which can be detrimental to their health. In fact, after our cat was diagnosed with crystals in his bladder, we learned the signs of an oncoming flare-up. When we would notice him urinating more or feeling lethargic, we used to just add more water into his diet by sprinkling it in his food, per the vet’s recommendations. However, after purchasing and implementing a water fountain, he’s been more eager to drink, and as a result, staying healthier longer.
If you’re interested in getting your cat their own water fountain, here are a few on the market we recommend:
1. Catit Flower Fountain
First and foremost, this water fountain is adorable. It features a cute little flower at the top where the water bounces off and comes in either blue or green. Best of all, you can buy it for less than $30.00 on Amazon.
This cat water fountain comes with three different water flow speeds, which is perfect for different temperaments. It can hold up to three liters of water and has a softening cat water filter so the water stays fresh no matter what time of day they’re using it. This filter reduces calcium, magnesium, and other odors from the water before your cat drinks it.
Click here to purchase it.
2. Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain
The best part about this stainless steel drinking fountain is that it can help repel mold and other types of bacterial growth from water that’s been sitting too long. This cat water fountain comes with a replaceable charcoal filter that purifies your cat’s water. Furthermore, it’s dishwasher safe.
The Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain was designed to have water move in a circular pattern, which is very appealing and mesmerizing to cats. So, if your cat has been struggling to drink water, this device may be your saving grace.
Click here to purchase it.
3. PetSafe Drinkwell 360
If you’re a Chewy member, we recommend looking into the PetSafe Drinkwell 360 water fountain. This fountain looks like a traditional water fountain only on a smaller scale. It’s dishwasher safe, has rubber feet to prevent sliding, and holds up to one gallon of water.
Its design was meant to entice your cat to consume more water. Furthermore, the flow of water is able to be controlled to your cat’s liking. Because of its structure, this fountain is ideal for those who have multiple cats in the house, as they can all drink at the same time.
It normally retails for $94.99 on Chewy.com, however, it has been on sale for as low as $74.95. Click here to grab yourself one.
Tips for Getting Your Cat to Use a Water Fountain
If your cat has been drinking out of a water bowl for years, then a water fountain may be intimidating to them. Because of this, the biggest tip to remember is to take it slow and let them approach the fountain when they feel comfortable so they don’t associate fear or anxiety with something that’s meant to help them.
To help with this, try leaving the fountain out for a few days as is before turning it on. Once your cat seems comfortable around it, turn the water on and see how they react. Chances are, they’ll investigate it.
One of the biggest drawbacks of a cat fountain is the noise it makes. While some models are quieter than others, the sudden sounds can make your cat feel uneasy. If they start meowing or acting defensively around the fountain, remove it from the area and try at a later date. It’s kind of like a cat carrier; if you try to force them into it, they’ll freak out, but if you leave it on the floor with the door open for a few days, they’ll eventually wander inside.
Have You Ever Tried a Cat Water Fountain? If So, What Was Your Experience Like?
Growing up, my parents would have never thought of buying our cat a water fountain to drink out of. However, as an adult with three cats of my own, I now understand the benefits of it. These unique fountains have been proven to help cats consume more water, so for that reason alone, I think they’re worth the investment.
Do you have a cat water fountain? If so, what was your experience like? Let us know in the comments.