A cat water fountain provides a continuous supply of fresh, circulating water, which can be more appealing to cats than stagnant water in a bowl. This can encourage cats to drink more water, which is essential for their health.

When choosing a cat water fountain, it is important to consider the design and materials used. The fountain should be easy for your cat to use and clean. It should also be made from pet-friendly materials that are safe for your cat to drink from.
Pet-Friendly Design
Cat water fountains should be designed with cats in mind. The fountain should be easy for your cat to access and use, and it should not be too noisy or obtrusive.
Some factors to consider when choosing a cat water fountain include:
- Height: The fountain should be tall enough for your cat to reach the water easily, but not so tall that it is difficult for your cat to get in and out.
- Width: The fountain should be wide enough for your cat to drink comfortably, but not so wide that it takes up too much space.
- Depth: The fountain should be deep enough to hold enough water for your cat to drink, but not so deep that your cat’s whiskers get wet when it drinks.
- Sound: The fountain should be quiet enough that it does not disturb your cat or you.
- Materials: The fountain should be made from pet-friendly materials that are safe for your cat to drink from.
Pet-Friendly Materials
Cat water fountains should be made from pet-friendly materials that are safe for your cat to drink from. Some common materials used in cat water fountains include:
- Ceramic: Ceramic is a durable and easy-to-clean material that is safe for cats to drink from. However, ceramic fountains can be heavy and may break if they are dropped.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel is a durable and corrosion-resistant material that is safe for cats to drink from. However, stainless steel fountains can be expensive.
- Plastic: Plastic is a lightweight and inexpensive material that is easy to clean. However, some plastics can contain BPA, which is a harmful chemical that can leach into the water.
When choosing a cat water fountain, it is important to read the product label carefully to make sure that it is made from pet-friendly materials.
Benefits of a Cat Water Fountain
There are many benefits to using a cat water fountain, including:
- Encourages cats to drink more water: Cats are naturally attracted to moving water, so a water fountain can encourage them to drink more water. This is especially important for cats that are prone to urinary tract infections or other health problems.
- Provides fresh, circulating water: A water fountain constantly circulates the water, which helps to keep it fresh and free of bacteria. This is important for cats that are sensitive to the taste or smell of stagnant water.
- Prevents boredom: A water fountain can provide your cat with a fun and interactive way to play. This can help to prevent boredom and keep your cat entertained.
- Improves overall health: Drinking plenty of water is essential for your cat’s overall health. A water fountain can help to ensure that your cat is getting the water it needs to stay healthy and happy.
How to Choose the Right Cat Water Fountain
There are many different cat water fountains on the market, so it is important to choose one that is right for your cat. When choosing a water fountain, consider the following factors:
- Your cat’s size and breed: Some water fountains are better suited for small cats, while others are better suited for large cats. Some breeds of cats, such as Persians and Himalayans, have flat faces that make it difficult for them to drink from some types of water fountains.
- Your cat’s drinking habits: Some cats prefer to drink from a shallow dish, while others prefer to drink from a deep bowl. Some cats like to play with the water, while others prefer to drink from a still surface.
- Your budget: Cat water fountains range in price from $20 to $200. It is important to choose a water fountain that fits your budget.
Tips for Using a Cat Water Fountain
Once you have chosen a cat water fountain, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Here are some general tips for using a cat water fountain:
- Place the fountain in a quiet location: Your cat will be more likely to use the fountain if it is placed in a quiet location where it can relax and drink.
- Keep the fountain clean: It is important to clean the fountain regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Most fountains can be cleaned in the dishwasher or with warm soapy water.
- Encourage your cat to use the fountain: If your cat is not using the fountain, you can try to encourage it by adding some catnip to the water or by playing with the water in front of your cat.
FAQs
Q: How often should I clean my cat’s water fountain?
A: You should clean your cat’s water fountain every week or two, or more often if it becomes dirty.
Q: Can I use tap water in my cat’s water fountain?
A: Yes, you can use tap water in your cat’s water fountain. However, if you have hard water, you may want to use filtered water instead.
Q: Why is my cat not drinking from the water fountain?
A: There are several reasons why your cat may not be drinking from the water fountain. Some possible reasons include:
- The water fountain is not placed in a quiet location.
- The water fountain is not clean.
- Your cat does not like the taste or smell of the water.
- Your cat is not used to drinking from a water fountain.
If you are unsure why your cat is not drinking from the water fountain, you should consult with your veterinarian.
Q: Can I use a cat water fountain for my dog?
A: Yes, you can use a cat water fountain for your dog. However, it is important to choose a water fountain that is large enough for your dog to drink from comfortably.
Table 1: Types of Cat Water Fountains
Type of Fountain | Description |
---|---|
Ceramic | Durable and easy to clean, but heavy and may break if dropped |
Stainless steel | Durable and corrosion-resistant, but expensive |
Plastic | Lightweight and inexpensive, but may contain BPA |
Glass | Stylish and easy to clean, but fragile |
Stoneware | Durable and easy to clean, but heavy |
Table 2: Features to Consider When Choosing a Cat Water Fountain
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Height | The height of the fountain should be tall enough for your cat to reach the water easily, but not so tall that it is difficult for your cat to get in and out. |
Width | The width of the fountain should be wide enough for your cat to drink comfortably, but not so wide that it takes up too much space. |
Depth | The depth of the fountain should be deep enough to hold enough water for your cat to drink, but not so deep that your cat’s whiskers get wet when it drinks. |
Sound | The fountain should be quiet enough that it does not disturb your cat or you. |
Materials | The fountain should be made from pet-friendly materials that are safe for your cat to drink from. |
Table 3: Benefits of Using a Cat Water Fountain
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
Encourages cats to drink more water | Cats are naturally attracted to moving water, so a water fountain can encourage them to drink more water. This is especially important for cats that are prone to urinary tract infections or other health problems. |
Provides fresh, circulating water | A water fountain constantly circulates the water, which helps to keep it fresh and free of bacteria. This is important for cats that are sensitive to the taste or smell of stagnant water. |
Prevents boredom | A water fountain can provide your cat with a fun and interactive way to play. This can help to prevent boredom and keep your cat entertained. |
Improves overall health | Drinking plenty of water is essential for your cat’s overall health. A water fountain can help to ensure that your cat is getting the water it needs to stay healthy and happy. |
Table 4: Tips for Using a Cat Water Fountain
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Place the fountain in a quiet location | Your cat will be more likely to use the fountain if it is placed in a quiet location where it can relax and drink. |
Keep the fountain clean | It is important to clean the fountain regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Most fountains can be cleaned in the dishwasher or with warm soapy water. |
Encourage your cat to use the fountain | If your cat is not using the fountain, you can try to encourage it by adding some catnip to the water or by playing with the water in front of your cat. |