The Best Cat Water Fountain For Cats And Dogs Of 2023

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Last Updated on February 6, 2024 by Aftab Tariq

Studies have shown that some cats are more attracted to the sound of running water than still water. To enhance your cat’s daily water intake, consider installing a water fountain in your home. Dehydration is a common issue among cats, leading to symptoms like lethargy and loss of appetite.

If your cat is experiencing these symptoms, making two simple adjustments can help – replace their regular water bowl with a water fountain and incorporate more wet food into their diet. These easy changes can significantly improve your cat’s overall health and well-being.

In our New York laboratory and the homes of volunteers with feline companions, we assessed nineteen of the top cat water fountains. Criteria such as noise levels and ease of setup were considered during both laboratory and home evaluations to rate each hydration station.

The Cepheus 360 Ceramic Pet Fountain stands out as our top choice for a cat water fountain, combining both visual appeal and versatile functionality.

Its ceramic components are dishwasher-safe, adding to its convenience. While there are other cat water fountains available, we’ve identified a few alternatives that could better meet your specific needs.

List of Best Cat Water Fountain

1: Cepheus 360 Ceramic Pet Fountain

The Cepheus 360 Ceramic Pet Fountain is our top pick for cats. It has easy-to-reach water streams, is made of tough ceramic, and comes in cool colors. Plus, it’s a breeze to clean.

With a 71-ounce reservoir on top, fed by three fountains, your cat can drink from different spots at the same time. Whether they like the main bowl, spout streams, bubbling top, or the flat second tier, this fountain offers lots of choices. It’s perfect for households with multiple cats, thanks to its versatility and simple cleaning.

Setting up the Cepheus fountain proved to be a straightforward process, despite the less-than-helpful accompanying instructions. The fountain consists of two main components: a cat water fountain ceramic piece that fits into the central recess of the bowl, and a pump that securely attaches to the base using suction cups.

The power cord neatly exits the fountain through a designated hole, covered by a provided waterproof cap. The Cepheus is equipped with three rectangular cartridges containing activated carbon and cotton, serving as its filters.

Although these cartridges may appear less densely filled compared to those of other cat water fountains we examined, we did not observe any adverse effects on the cleaning efficiency or overall lifespan of the fountain. Additionally, the inclusion of the Cat water fountain ensures a continuous and fresh water supply for your feline friend, promoting better hydration and overall well-being.

Similar to other models, Cepheus recommends changing the cat water fountain filter on a monthly basis. Installing the filter in a bracket to face the water intake on the pump side allowed us to fully appreciate the water’s efficient circulation through it. In contrast, some other evaluated filters merely let water pass by without significantly impacting the water cycle’s effectiveness.

The Cepheus 360 Ceramic Water Fountain is super quiet because it hides the pump under the ceramic part, so you just hear the relaxing waterfall. It’s stable too, so even if your pets are wild about drinking from it, it won’t make a mess. And the best part? You can toss it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. The author says:

“In life’s diverse tapestry, the Cepheus 360 Pet Fountain symbolizes embracing change, finding beauty beneath the surface, and navigating the vibrant patterns of growth.”

But, there are a couple of small things to keep in mind. It doesn’t come with a regular power cord; instead, it has a USB connector for the pump cable, so you’ll need an adapter. Also, a few parts inside might be a bit tricky to clean compared to the main ceramic pieces, even with regular cleaning.

Setting aside those considerations, the Cepheus 360 proves to be an excellent device. Its diverse range of vibrant colors and patterns is noteworthy. You can opt for neutral tones like gray and white, seamlessly blending into any kitchen setting.

Additionally, there are two lively pattern options and a unique “Gradual Purple” variant featuring a captivating gradient effect.

2: PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Pet Fountain

When comparing the Pet Safe Drink well Pagoda Ceramic Fountain to our top pick, the Cepheus 360, several similarities emerge. Both fountains feature a ceramic design, utilize two pieces for the internal pump, offer a choice of four vibrant colors, and boast a 70-ounce capacity.

Cat water fountain

However, the Drink well Pagoda distinguishes itself by its higher price point and rectangular shape, setting it apart from our preferred cat water fountain, the Cepheus 360.

The Drink well Pagoda comes with ceramic parts that you can toss in the dishwasher. It’s got a small top tank that cats really enjoy, and two separate fountains to suit different cat sizes. Plus, it includes a real power plug, not just a USB cable.

But there are a couple of things to consider. Taking apart and cleaning the internal water pump can be a bit tricky. While the pump makes a soft humming sound, the water splashes into the bowl from a height, making it a bit noisier than similar fountains. Also, even though it looks nice, be aware that the flared-out rim might cause some water to spill when you move it.

While there are some minor issues, we believe that the Pagoda fountain is just as exquisite and well-crafted as our preferred choice. If the price difference isn’t a deciding factor, your choice between the Cepheus 360 and Drink well Pagoda should be based on your personal aesthetic preferences.

Another option worth considering is the Pet Safe Drink well Avalon, which closely resembles the Pagoda but features a circular shape instead of a rectangular one. Take a moment to reflect on this alternative as well.

The Pet Safe Drink well Pagoda Ceramic Fountain is available in four colors: white, red, taupe, and Himalayan blue.

3: PetSafe Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel 360

One of our preferred pet water fountains is the Pet Safe Drink well 360 Stainless Steel Pet Fountain, a former selection for the Best Overall category. Its considerable size presents both advantages and disadvantages for various pet owners. It is advisable to opt for a bowl that accommodates both cats and dogs harmoniously.

Cat water fountain

Similar to our previously favored Cepheus, the Pet Safe Drink well 360 features a round reservoir that facilitates filling from any direction.

In contrast to the intricate design of the Cepheus, the Drink well embraces a functionally minimalistic approach, adorned with plastic clips that, albeit subtly, deviate from the sleek stainless steel aesthetics.

While the Drink well may not offer a large drinking surface for cats, it stands out with its customization options.

It includes a plastic cap that allows you to modify the fountain streams. By changing the caps, you can create various combinations and regulate the number of independent water streams, ranging from one to five. Paulo Coelho once said :

“In the river of life, our choices become the currents that shape the course of our destiny.”

An added benefit is the lengthy power cord.

Assembling the Drink well proved a bit tedious, involving the connection of multiple small parts in what seemed like a less-than-intuitive pattern. Nevertheless, the provided directions were clear, and within fifteen minutes of following them, the fountain was up and running smoothly.

The dishwasher-safe stainless steel construction of the Drink well is a convenient feature, but it’s important to note that the internal mechanisms, comprising the crucial parts of the fountain, require manual cleaning due to their sensitivity.

For an efficient cleaning process, consider using Pet Safe’s fountain cleaning kit, which includes specialized scouring brushes resembling pipe cleaners, along with replacement filters.

4: Pioneer Pet Stainless Steel Fountain Raindrop Design

Cat water fountain

If you’re in search of a stainless steel cat fountain and don’t require an enormous water capacity, we suggest considering the Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain. This sleek option resembles a stylish cat bowl with a unique curved water slide design, offering around 60 Oz (or just under two quarts) of water.

Additionally, it operates quietly, providing a pleasant experience for both you and your feline companion.

This fountain is a good deal for its basic design, especially when you compare it to other cheaper plastic options.

5: PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain

The PETLIBRO Capsule Water Fountain, despite its seemingly compact design, boasts an impressive water capacity of 71 ounces (2.1 liters).

Cat water fountain

In our tests with crumbled kibble, the robust filter efficiently captured every last bit. Among the fountains we assessed, it stood out as one of the quietest, surpassed only by ceramic models with concealed pumps.

Importantly, no bisphenol A is involved in its production. The fountain’s simple disassembly and reassembly make cleaning a straightforward task. While it’s not suitable for the dishwasher, PETLIBRO provides a brush for easy cleaning.

While the PETLIBRO Capsule Water Fountain comes equipped with a power adaptor, it is recommended to extend the USB cord for a more visually appealing setup. Notably, the fountain lacks control over water flow rate, a departure from models that offer customization options.

The Capsule is specifically designed for use with or without the spout, limiting the user’s ability to design streams and adjust water flow. Users can opt for either a quiet burbling sound or a water stream reminiscent of a traditional fountain.

In line with other cat water fountains in the “flower” style, the Capsule does have a few drawbacks discussed in our Best Flower pick. A significant feature is the inclusion of a top tray that separates the water reservoir from the fountain.

This ensures that even in the event of a power outage or pump failure, the majority of the water remains inaccessible to your cat. However, it differs from typical flower-style fountains by featuring a wide sipping area that accommodates around 2.7 ounces of water in a shallow pool atop the dish.

The PETLIBRO Capsule Water Fountain is available in various colors such as green, orange, purple, or blue. Additionally, there is a stainless steel variant for those who prefer that particular option.

6: Cat MatePet Fountain BPA and BHT

The Cat Mate emerges as an economical choice for a pet fountain, offering a three-tiered design with multiple pools and streams, creating a spacious and engaging drinking environment for your cat or cats. The pump’s subtle hum is inconspicuous, although it may not be the quietest option available.

Cat water fountain

While the Cat Mate excels in providing entertainment for your feline companions, its effectiveness as a filter is somewhat limited. The design includes a screen-like filter intended to guide water to the pump intake, preventing contaminants like kibble, fur, and slobber from entering the upper pool.

However, in practical use, the plastic bracket holding the filter allows some particles to slip around its edges. Additionally, the plastic grille may fail to retain heavier debris in the main bowl area.

Consider trying out the Cat Mate if you’re looking to encourage your cat to drink more water with a fountain. Keep in mind that this option requires regular cleaning. If you prefer a low-maintenance alternative, explore our other recommendations.

The actual water capacity of the Cat Mate is closer to 50 ounces, contrary to the claimed 70 ounces. Its BPA-free plastic construction and easy assembly and disassembly make cleaning a breeze.

7: Wonder Creature Water Fountain

If you’ve delved into cat water fountains, chances are you’ve encountered the floral design. A common feature among them is a plastic flower, often daisy-shaped, that divides the upward-pushed water from the reservoir into multiple streams pouring into a small basin for your cat to drink.

Cat water fountain

Typically, there’s a filter beneath the drinking area. In our testing, we found that the most popular flower designs, including the widely-used Catit Flower Cat Fountain, were quite similar in quality, often sharing identical parts. However, these flower fountains didn’t leave a lasting impression.

They tended to be unstable, had a barrier obstructing the view of the water, making it difficult to monitor water levels, and were ineffective during power outages when your cat might need water.

If you’re in search of a floral cat water fountain, consider the Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain with Stainless Steel Lid. Although its style may be modest, it distinguishes itself with a robust, dishwasher-safe stainless steel cover.

Cat water fountains serve as a vital component for the well-being of your cat. These fountains provide a constant source of clean and fresh water and eliminate the prospect of bacteria growth, ensuring your cat’s health.

The flowing water entices your kitty to drink more and taps into their preying instincts with ripples and the soothing sound of a waterfall. Cat water fountains have proven to be a valuable addition for cat owners, meeting their pets’ hydration needs engagingly and effectively. Make sure there’s a cat water fountain nearby for your cat’s hydration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Different Types of Cat Water Fountains?

There are three different types of water filtration systems available: gravity-based, multistage (typically incorporating carbon filters), and bubbler or fountain systems.

How Much Does a Cat Water Fountain Cost?

The cost of cat fountains varies depending on their features and materials, ranging from seven to four hundred twenty-five dollars. Typically, these fountains are priced between seventy-five and eighty dollars, but more sophisticated models can be priced as high as two to three hundred dollars.

Are Cat Water Fountains Noisy?

When the water level rises, the fountain operates quietly, but as it decreases, an unpleasant humming or grinding noise emerges. The volume of the sound peaks when the fountain is running low on water and gradually diminishes until it ceases to pump water.

What is the Best Water Fountain for Cats?

Affordable, easy maintenance, and ideal size for cats or smaller dogs. Sturdy iron construction, providing a reliable option. Tailored for larger canines, an excellent choice for big dog breeds Upgraded water feature for enhanced pet well-being. Recommended for those seeking an elevated hydration experience.

Can I Wash Cat Fountain in Dishwasher?

Exclusively position the fountain on the upper dishwasher rack. Avoid cleaning the pump or filters in the dishwasher. Instead, carefully disassemble the fountain and cleanse it thoroughly using warm water and soap, following the specified steps.

Are Automatic Cat Water Fountains Safe for Cats?

Yes, they’re safe! Just make sure the fountain is made with good waterproof materials. It’s also smart to check the pump and the cord that’s underwater regularly for any issues.

Should I Use Vet Recommended Cat Water Fountains for my Cat?

Veterinarians recommend cat fountains because they mimic the moving water cats prefer in the wild. Still water can gather bacteria, making it risky for cats. By using a fountain, cats stay hydrated and healthy.

Are Water Dispensers Good for Cats?

Cat water dispensers, like fountains, encourage hydration with a constant supply of fresh water. They appeal to cats and contribute to their overall health. Regular cleaning is essential for hygiene.

Sources

Skaer Veterinary Clinic

Effect of water source on intake and urine concentration in healthy cats

Comparison of feline water consumption between still and flowing water sources: A pilot study

Aftab Tariq

I am a dedicated content writer with more than five years of experience, particularly skilled in the art of storytelling. My writing journey commenced during my college years, where I pursued journalism and unearthed my talent for creating captivating narratives.