Are Drinking Fountains Good for Cats?

Cats naturally like running water because they think it's fresher than water in a bowl. Cat fountains are a fun way to entertain your cat, but be sure to choose the right fountain. Decorative fountains are not suitable for pets. They may be unsafe and cause injuries to your cat.

Cats and Water Bowls

Natural instincts. Domestic cats will drink from water bowls, but they generally don't like stagnant water. Cats think stagnant water is unsafe. Running water looks fresher to cats.

Suspicious nature. If you place your cat's water bowl in a corner, they may feel uneasy because their back is facing a large space. Cats are very observant and like to know what's going on around them. Even if you don't have other pets, your cat's nature is to be vigilant if attacked.

Look both ways. Even if your cat likes running water, some studies have shown that domestic cats do not show a preference for fountain water over water in a bowl. Before buying a water fountain for your cat, keep in mind that it may just be a fancy water bowl for your cat after the "novelty" wears off.

How Cat Water Fountains Work

Cat water fountains can be simple or complex, but they all work in basically the same way. You put water in the fountain, and it filters through a series of pipes, giving your cat the feeling that they are drinking fresh tap water.

Benefits of a Water Fountain. You may notice that your cat is drawn to the sink when you wash your hands. They may drink the water or paw at the stream. Either way, running water is fun for cats. A water fountain can reduce clutter around the sink because the running water is confined to one area for your cat.

If you're worried that your cat isn't drinking enough water, a water fountain may be the solution. The sound of running water may entice your cat to drink more often, improving their overall health.

How to Choose the Right Cat Water Fountain

Make sure your water fountain is approved for use around pets. A more ornate fountain may not have the same safety features, putting your cat at risk for injury.

Know your needs. Do you want a small, simple fountain that's easy to operate? Or do you prefer a more elaborate fountain with settings and controls? Fountains vary widely in features, design, and price range.

If your space is already tight, a smaller fountain may be a better fit. If you have a lot of cats, you may need a larger fountain. All fountains make some noise when the water flows, but some make a lot of noise because they need to be pumped to move the water.

Is the fountain easy to clean?

Cost of cat fountains. Fountains come in a variety of prices, depending on features and size. Some fountains come with filters that need to be cleaned or replaced regularly. While some fountains can be plugged into the wall, others require batteries.

Keep in mind that buying a large fountain does not mean you can leave without changing the water. The water in a large fountain needs to be changed as often as the water in a standing bowl.