Top 9 Best Cat Water Fountains: A Comprehensive Guide

As a cat owner, I know how important it is to keep our purry, furry friends hydrated. Cat water fountains have become a game-changer in encouraging cats to drink more water, which is crucial for their overall health. In this guide, I’ll walk you through my choices for the top 9 cat water fountains available on Amazon.com, helping you make the best choice for your pet.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cat Water Fountain

Before we dive into the reviews, let’s look at some important aspects that make a great cat water fountain:

Material

Cat water fountains come in three main materials: plastic, ceramic, and stainless steel. Each has it’s own set of advantages and drawbacks:

Plastic: These fountains are lightweight and affordable. However, they may not be as durable as other materials and can develop scratches that harbor bacteria over time.

Ceramic: Ceramic fountains are aesthetically pleasing and naturally cool. They’re also heavy, which makes them less likely to tip over.

The downside is that they can be more expensive and may chip or crack if dropped.

Stainless Steel: These fountains are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to bacteria. They’re often more expensive than plastic options but can last for years with proper care.

Capacity

The size of the fountain should match your household’s needs. If you have multiple cats or large breeds, you’ll want a fountain with a higher capacity to confirm a constant supply of fresh water.

Filtration System

A good filtration system keeps the water clean and fresh by removing impurities, odors, and even cat hair. Look for fountains with replaceable filters and consider the cost and availability of replacement filters.

Noise Level

Some cats (and owners) are sensitive to noise. A quiet fountain confirms your cat won’t be scared away from drinking and won’t disturb your peace.

Ease of Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining a hygienic water source for your cat. Look for fountains that are easy to disassemble and clean.

Dishwasher-safe components are a bonus.

Power Consumption

Since these fountains run continuously, consider their energy efficiency. Some models have energy-saving features like automatic shut-off when water levels are low.

Design

Cats can be picky about their water sources. Some prefer running water, while others like still water.

Consider your cat’s preferences when choosing a fountain design.

Now, let’s explore our top 10 picks:

1. Catit Flower Plastic Cat Water Fountain

The Catit Flower Fountain is a popular choice among cat owners for it’s playful design and functionality. It’s flower-shaped top isn’t just for looks – it serves a practical purpose by allowing you to customize the water flow to suit your cat’s preferences.

Pros:

• Large 3-liter capacity suitable for multi-cat households
• Three adjustable flow settings (gentle flow, bubbling top, or freefall streams)
• Compact and lightweight design that fits well in most spaces

Cons:

• Plastic material may not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel options
• Requires regular filter changes to maintain water quality

The Catit Flower Fountain’s adjustable flow settings make it versatile for different cat preferences. You can create a gentle flow for timid drinkers, a bubbling top for curious cats, or freefall streams for those who love running water.

It’s large capacity means less frequent refills, which is a bonus for busy pet owners.

The fountain’s design also incorporates a triple-action filter that removes magnesium and calcium from tap water, traps hair and debris, and removes chlorine odors. This confirms your cat always has access to clean, fresh-tasting water.

While the plastic construction might not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel, it does make the fountain lightweight and easy to move around. Regular cleaning and timely filter replacements will help maintain it’s hygiene and longevity.

2. PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless Steel Cat Fountain

The PetSafe Drinkwell 360 is a premium option that stands out with it’s durable stainless steel construction and 360-degree drinking area. This fountain allows cats to approach from any angle, making it ideal for multi-pet households.

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel construction
• Large 128-ounce capacity
• 360-degree access for multiple pets
• Adjustable flow control
• Dishwasher-safe (except pump)

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Some users report difficulty in cleaning certain parts

The stainless steel construction of the Drinkwell 360 is a big plus for hygiene-conscious pet owners. Stainless steel is naturally bacteria-resistant and doesn’t hold onto odors like plastic can.

It’s also incredibly durable, meaning this fountain can last for years with proper care.

The fountain’s circular design creates a 360-degree drinking area, allowing multiple cats to drink simultaneously without crowding each other. This feature, combined with it’s large capacity, makes it an excellent choice for households with multiple pets.

One of the standout features of the Drinkwell 360 is it’s adjustable flow control. You can customize the water flow from a gentle trickle to a more forceful stream, catering to different cat preferences.

The fountain also includes a replaceable carbon filter that removes bad tastes and odors, ensuring the water stays fresh.

While the initial cost is higher than some plastic models, the durability and quality of the Drinkwell 360 make it a worthwhile investment for many cat owners. However, some users have reported that certain parts of the fountain can be tricky to clean thoroughly.

Regular maintenance and occasional deep cleaning will help keep this fountain in top condition.

3. Pioneer Pet Raindrop Ceramic Drinking Fountain

For those who prioritize aesthetics alongside functionality, the Pioneer Pet Raindrop Ceramic Drinking Fountain is an excellent choice. It’s sleek, teardrop design adds a touch of elegance to your home decor while providing your cat (or dog), with fresh, flowing water.

Pros:

• Stylish and modern design that complements home decor
• Ceramic material is naturally more hygienic and helps keep water cooler
• Ultra-quiet operation for peaceful environments
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Smaller capacity (60 ounces) may need more frequent refills
• More expensive than plastic options

The ceramic construction of this fountain offers practical benefits beyond it’s attractive appearance. Ceramic is naturally more hygienic than plastic, resisting bacteria growth and helping to keep the water cooler, which many cats prefer.

The smooth surface is also easy to clean and doesn’t hold onto odors.

One of the standout features of the Raindrop fountain is it’s ultra-quiet operation. The gentle flow of water creates a soothing sound that won’t disturb you or your cat, making it ideal for light sleepers or those who work from home.

The fountain’s design creates a continuous flow of water that cascades down the smooth ceramic surface. This movement oxygenates the water and encourages cats to drink more, which is useful for their health, particularly for cats prone to urinary tract issues.

While the 60-ounce capacity is smaller than some other models, it’s sufficient for one or two cats. However, you may need to refill it more frequently in multi-cat households or during hot weather.

The higher price point reflects the quality of materials and design, but many cat owners find it a worthwhile investment for it’s durability and aesthetic appeal. The fact that it’s dishwasher safe also adds to it’s convenience, making regular cleaning a breeze.

4. Veken Automatic Pet Fountain

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features, the Veken Automatic Pet Fountain is worth considering. This plastic fountain comes with some impressive features typically found in more expensive models.

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• Quiet operation (below 40dB)
• Large 2.5-liter capacity
• Smart pump with LED light indicator
• Three flow modes for variety

Cons:

• Plastic construction may not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel
• Some users report difficulty in cleaning certain parts

Despite it’s lower price point, the Veken fountain doesn’t compromise on functionality. The smart pump with LED indicator is a thoughtful feature that helps you watch the fountain’s operation.

A blue light shows normal function, while a red light alerts you when the water level is low or the pump needs attention.

The fountain offers three flow modes: flower waterfall, bubble, and gentle fountain. This variety allows you to cater to your cat’s preferences or change things up to maintain their interest. The large 2.5-liter capacity means less frequent refills, which is convenient for busy pet owners.

One of the standout features of the Veken fountain is it’s quiet operation. Running at less than 40dB, it’s unlikely to disturb you or your cat, making it suitable for use in any room of the house.

The fountain uses a triple filtration system, including an activated carbon filter, an ion exchange resin, and a foam filter. This comprehensive filtration helps remove impurities, soften tap water, and trap hair and debris, ensuring your cat always has clean, fresh water.

While the plastic construction may not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel, regular cleaning and maintenance can help prolong it’s lifespan. Some users have reported difficulty cleaning certain parts of the fountain, so it’s worth considering if you’re willing to put in a bit more effort for the sake of the lower price point.

5. Petlibro Cat Water Fountain

The PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain offers a modern, cordless, battery-powered solution for keeping cats hydrated. With its sleek design and 2.5L capacity, it fits well in any home and reduces the need for constant refills, even for multi-cat households.

Setting it up is easy, with a stainless steel tray that’s dishwasher-safe and components that can be cleaned weekly. Its triple-filtration system ensures fresh, clean water, while the quiet operation makes it ideal for timid cats.

The triple-filtration system ensures high water quality, removing impurities and odors. Combined with its quiet operation, this fountain is ideal for cats sensitive to noise or picky about water. The gentle trickle mimics natural streams, attracting cats to drink more and promoting better hydration.

Cats can enjoy multiple drinking modes, including flowing water, a shallow pool in the tray, or sipping directly from the spout. This variety caters to different preferences, making it a great solution for even the pickiest drinkers. Owners report their cats drinking more, which can help prevent common urinary issues.

While the PETLIBRO fountain has many advantages, there are minor drawbacks. Its pump is sensitive to low water levels, requiring frequent checks to maintain uninterrupted operation. Additionally, while the BPA-free plastic components are safe, some users may prefer an all-stainless steel design for enhanced durability.

Despite these minor cons, the PETLIBRO fountain provides excellent value for its price. By encouraging hydration, it supports long-term health and potentially reduces veterinary costs related to dehydration. The ability to place it anywhere in your home or outdoors, combined with its ease of cleaning, makes it a top choice for cat owners.

Overall, the PETLIBRO fountain is an excellent investment, improving cat hydration and health with ease and style.

6. IPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain

The iPettie Tritone is a stylish ceramic fountain that offers a unique triple-free falling design. This feature provides multiple drinking areas and a visually appealing water flow that can attract cats to drink more.

Pros:

• Attractive ceramic design
• Triple-free falling water design
• Large 2.1-liter capacity
• Ultra-quiet operation
• Dual filtration system

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Heavier than plastic models, which can make cleaning more challenging

The ceramic construction of the iPettie Tritone offers several benefits. It’s naturally more hygienic than plastic, resisting bacteria growth and helping to keep the water cool.

The smooth surface is also easy to clean and doesn’t hold onto odors.

This can be particularly useful in multi-cat households or for cats that prefer different drinking positions.

With a 2.1-liter capacity, this fountain is suitable for multi-cat households or for ensuring a constant supply of fresh water for a single cat. The large capacity also means less frequent refills, which is convenient for busy pet owners.

The iPettie Tritone operates ultra-quietly, with a noise level below 40dB. This makes it suitable for use in any room of the house without causing disturbance, even in quiet areas where you or your cat might be sensitive to noise.

The fountain uses a dual filtration system, including an activated carbon filter and a foam filter. This comprehensive filtration helps remove impurities, odors, and traps hair and debris, ensuring your cat always has clean, fresh water.

While the ceramic construction and unique design contribute to a higher price point, many cat owners find it a worthwhile investment for it’s durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. However, the weight of the ceramic can make it more challenging to move and clean compared to lighter plastic models.

7. PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Ceramic Fountain

The PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda is a visually striking ceramic fountain with a square design and dual-level drinking areas. Available in multiple colors, it’s designed to complement various home decor styles while providing functional benefits for your cat.

Pros:

• Attractive, dual-level design
• Ceramic construction for better hygiene and cooler water
• 70-ounce capacity
• Dual free-falling streams to entice drinking
• Dishwasher safe (except pump)

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Some users report the pump can be noisy if water levels get too low

The Pagoda fountain’s ceramic construction offers several advantages. It’s naturally more hygienic than plastic, resisting bacteria growth and helping to keep the water cool.

The smooth surface is also easy to clean and doesn’t hold onto odors.

One of the standout features of this fountain is it’s dual-level design. The upper and lower dishes provide two drinking areas, catering to cats of different sizes or those with different preferences.

The dual free-falling streams also help to aerate the water, making it more appealing to cats and encouraging them to drink more.

With a 70-ounce capacity, this fountain is suitable for single-cat households or homes with multiple small pets. While it may need more frequent refills than some larger models, it’s size makes it a good fit for smaller spaces.

The fountain uses a carbon filter to remove bad tastes and odors from the water, ensuring it stays fresh and appealing to your cat. The ceramic construction of the fountain itself also helps to naturally keep the water cool.

One of the most convenient aspects of the Pagoda fountain is that most parts are dishwasher safe (excluding the pump). This makes regular cleaning much easier, helping you maintain a hygienic water source for your cat.

While the ceramic construction and unique design contribute to a higher price point, many cat owners find it a worthwhile investment for it’s durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. However, some users have reported that the pump can become noisy if the water level gets too low, so it’s important to keep an eye on the water level and refill as needed.

8. Dogness Mini Programmable Automatic Pet Water Fountain

While marketed primarily for dogs, the Dogness Mini fountain is equally suitable for cats. It stands out with it’s unique programmable timer and smart LED display, offering a high-tech solution to pet hydration.

Pros:

• Programmable timer for scheduled operation
• Compact design ideal for small spaces
• Smart LED display for water and filter status
• Three water flow settings
• Quiet operation

Cons:

• Smaller capacity (2 liters) may need frequent refills
• Plastic construction may not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel

The programmable timer is a standout feature of the Dogness Mini, allowing you to set specific times for the fountain to operate. This can be particularly useful for managing water freshness and energy consumption.

You can set it to run during the hours your cat is most active, ensuring they always have access to fresh, moving water.

The smart LED display is another high-tech feature that sets this fountain apart. It provides clear information about water level and filter status, taking the guesswork out of maintenance.

The display will alert you when it’s time to refill the water or replace the filter.

Despite it’s name, the Dogness Mini offers a respectable 2-liter capacity, suitable for most cat households. However, in multi-cat homes or during hot weather, you may need to refill it more frequently than some larger models.

The fountain offers three water flow settings: waterfall, bubble, and gentle fountain. This variety allows you to cater to your cat’s preferences or change things up to maintain their interest. The adjustable flow also means you can set it to a quieter mode if needed.

While the plastic construction may not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel, it does make the fountain lightweight and easy to move. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prolong it’s lifespan.

The Dogness Mini uses a triple filtration system, including activated carbon, ion exchange resin, and a cotton layer. This comprehensive filtration helps remove impurities, soften tap water, and trap hair and debris, ensuring your cat always has clean, fresh water.

9. Petmate Replendish Gravity Waterer with Microban

For those who prefer a non-electric option, the Petmate Replendish Gravity Waterer offers a simple yet effective solution. Using gravity to confirm a constant supply of fresh water, this waterer is low-maintenance and reliable.

Pros:

• No electricity required, making it suitable for outdoor use or travel
• Large capacity options available (up to 3 gallons)
• Microban antimicrobial protection helps prevent bacterial growth
• Simple design with fewer parts to clean
• Charcoal filter for water purification

Cons:

• Lacks the moving water that some cats prefer
• Plastic construction may not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel

While it doesn’t provide the moving water that many cats are attracted to, the Petmate Replendish offers other benefits. It’s large capacity options make it ideal for multi-cat households or for ensuring your cat has fresh water during extended periods when you’re away.

The Microban antimicrobial protection is a standout feature of this waterer. This technology is built into the plastic components and helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

This can help keep the water fresher for longer and reduce the frequency of deep cleaning needed.

The waterer uses a replaceable charcoal filter to purify the water, removing bad tastes and odors. This confirms that your cat always has access to clean, fresh-tasting water.

The simple gravity-fed design means there are fewer parts to clean compared to electric fountains. This can be a significant advantage for those who want a low-maintenance option or for use in areas where electricity isn’t readily available.

While the plastic construction may not be as durable as ceramic or stainless steel, it does make the waterer lightweight and easy to move. This can be particularly useful if you need to use it outdoors or take it with you when traveling with your cat.

The Petmate Replendish is available in various sizes, from 0.5 gallons up to 3 gallons. This range of options allows you to choose the perfect size for your household’s needs.

People Also Asked

How often should I clean my cat water fountain?

Most manufacturers recommend cleaning cat water fountains at least once a week. However, if you have multiple cats or notice the water getting dirty quickly, you may need to clean it more often.

Can cat water fountains help with urinary tract health?

Yes, cat water fountains can encourage cats to drink more water, which is useful for urinary tract health. Increased water intake can help prevent urinary tract infections and reduce the risk of kidney stones.

Are ceramic fountains better than plastic ones?

Ceramic fountains are often considered better than plastic ones because they’re more hygienic, don’t keep odors, and can keep water cooler. However, they’re also more expensive and can break if dropped.

How long do filters in cat water fountains last?

The lifespan of filters in cat water fountains varies depending on the brand and model. Generally, most filters need to be replaced every 2-4 weeks, but some may last up to 2 months.

Can I use a cat water fountain outdoors?

Most electric cat water fountains are designed for indoor use only. If you want an outdoor option, consider a gravity-fed waterer like the Petmate Replendish.

Do cat water fountains use a lot of electricity?

Most cat water fountains are designed to be energy-efficient and use minimal electricity. The exact consumption varies by model, but it’s generally comparable to running a small LED light bulb.

How do I get my cat to use a water fountain?

To encourage your cat to use a water fountain, place it in a quiet area away from their food. Some cats may need time to adjust, so be patient.

You can try adding a favorite treat near the fountain to create positive associations.

Can I put anything other than water in my cat’s fountain?

It’s best to only use fresh, clean water in your cat’s fountain. Adding other liquids can damage the pump or encourage bacterial growth.

How do I know when to replace the filter in my cat’s water fountain?

Most fountains have indicators to show when the filter needs replacing. Generally, you should replace the filter every 2-4 weeks, or sooner if you notice a change in water quality or flow.

Can multiple cats share one water fountain?

Yes, multiple cats can share one water fountain. However, you’ll need to confirm the fountain has a large enough capacity and may need to clean it more often.

Key Takeaways

1. Cat water fountains come in various materials, each with it’s own pros and cons.

Ceramic and stainless steel are more durable and hygienic, while plastic options are usually more affordable.

2. Consider factors like capacity, filtration system, noise level, and ease of cleaning when choosing a fountain.
3. Some fountains offer features like programmable timers, LED indicators, and multiple flow settings to cater to different preferences.
4. Regular cleaning and filter replacement are crucial for maintaining a hygienic water source for your cat.
5. While electric fountains are popular, non-electric options like gravity waterers can be suitable for outdoor use or travel.