10 Best Water Fountains For Cats (2023 Update)

pet water fountain
(Last Updated On: May 23, 2023)

We’ve heard about cat water fountains for the longest time and finally decided to take the plunge. Having 2 fur kids (our dog, Harley, and cat, Lilo), catering to their eating and drinking needs daily can be worrisome.

Is your cat eating well? Do you know if your cat is drinking enough water? Do your cats enjoy drinking water?

After having our fountain for 1.5 years, I’m so glad to say we’ll never look back, and we definitely don’t regret purchasing them.

These are good, not just for convenience. More importantly, they help keep the water fresh and healthy for your cat. Here is a look at the best cat water fountain that can provide healthy, filtered water for your cat.

See the best stainless steel cat fountains

Top 8 Best Cat Water Fountain to Keep Your Cat Hydrated

Best Cat Water FountainsCheck Price:My Notes:Rating
Petsafe Drinkwell Ceramic Avalon
Check Latest Price Here
Petsafe Drinkwell 360 Multi-Pet Water Fountain, Stainless Steel
Check Latest Price Here
Pioneer Pet Raindrop Cat Fountain
Check Latest Price Here
Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat Water Fountain
Check Latest Price Here
Pioneer Pet Raindrop 6022 Ceramic Water Fountain
Check Latest Price Here
Drinkwell 360 Cat Fountain, 128oz Check Latest Price Here
Aspen Cool Flow Cat Fountain
Check Latest Price Here
Pioneer Pet Stainless Steel Pet Drinking Fountain
Check Latest Price Here
Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum 168oz Pet Fountain Check Latest Price Here

1. Petsafe Avalon Fountain

Top Pick Cat Drinking Fountain!

 

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

Featuring a free-falling stream and running water, this cat water fountain is popular in households with more than one cat. I had to add this fountain on this list! Its dimension is 11.6 x 11.6 x 8.4 inches, weighing almost 4.6 pounds.

This is a ceramic pet fountain which is why it must be handled with caution. Providing fresh flowing drinking water helps to maintain your cats’ health in good condition. The elevated portion of this fountain is also helpful for kitties to drink when they cannot bend down low. The flow of water settings of the water stream can also be controlled depending on necessity and how finicky your cat is.

The charcoal filter removes dust and debris from the fresh water, while the motor moves it with very low power consumption. Debris is removed while the water falls down into the reservoir. This aerates it with more fresh oxygen for your cats, who love to drink.

All the parts can be very easily opened and cleaned. Stain marks can be removed with the dishwasher, but the filters must be changed periodically.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • 70 oz
  • The elevated drinking platform is best for older pets to drink from that suffer from arthritis.
  • Dual free-flowing streams add oxygen to the h20. Most other brands just have one main water flow.
  • Your cats can try drinking from the upper or the lower levels
  • Adjustable water flow control settings
  • Submersible pump with low power consumption
  • Ceramic fountains are designed to be more hygienic
  • Great water flow control
  • Dishwasher-safe good for cats

Keep In Mind:

  • It must be handled very carefully as it’s fragile
  • Cannot be used outdoors
  • The filter should be changed periodically

2. Petsafe Drinkwell 360 Multi-Pet Water Fountain

 

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

This Petsafe Drinkwell 360 Multi-Pet stainless steel fountain has replaceable activated filters made of charcoal. The carbon filter helps to remove bad odors, giving the water they need a fresher taste and smell, while supplying your cat with water cleaner than usual. This is useful for households with multiple pets.

Giving 360-degree access, this water fountain has the capacity to hold as much as 128 ounces of water. The premium steel texture makes it fit with your interior design. Clean up is easy, making it even more convenient to use.

This no-leak cat water fountain with multiple changeable plastic tip heads makes it very useful and best for multiple pets.

With water flowing over the five spout rings, it makes it easier for at least three animals to drink all at once. As the motor is plugged in, the fresh stream of water circulates through the filters. This removes impurities and odors. It gets collected over the steel fountain bowl.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • The flow can be easily adjusted
  • Interchangeable spout heads are perfect for multiple pets
  • Free-falling stream infuses more oxygen, making it healthier and fresher than water stored
  • The submerged pump is safe and ultra-quiet water fountain while in use.
  • Foam filter helps to remove hair and debris, while the replaceable activated carbon filter helps to remove bad tastes and odors from the water.
  • Dishwasher safe for quick cleaning!
  • Great for dogs and cats

Keep In Mind:

  • More suitable for small to medium-sized cats
  • If the filter is not changed periodically, the product might not run efficiently
  • Suitable for indoor use only

3. Pioneer Pet Raindrop Fountain

 

pioneer pet raindrop

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

Moving water helps to attract and encourage your cats to drink more water also and help keep your cat hydrated. This water fountain that looks like a raindrop and can complement your interior design. You can also monitor its daily water intake. The circulating stream flows over the ceramic material, preventing any growth of bacteria. This is also awesome with 60oz!

This Pioneer Raindrop dishwasher safe product that must be handled carefully, as it’s fragile. It has additional plugs that give added convenience for use. Above all, the circulating stream keeps the water flowing for your cat, attracting them to drink water more often.

Clean this water fountain regularly, especially if you are using the black one. The parts are safe to be washed in the dishwasher. The water filters should be replaced in time to avoid any impurities.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • Dishwasher Safe
  • Great for cats or small dogs
  • Replaceable filters
  • Ceramic or stainless steel texture inhibits bacterial growth
  • Using replaceable filters that’s charcoal, it continuously filters to keep the water clean and fresh
  • One of the quietest pumps cannot be heard even on top of the fountain
  • 100% lead-free

Keep In Mind:

  • Handle with care since it’s fragile!

4. Drinkwell Multi-Tier Cat Water Fountain

 

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

This water fountain from Drinkwell Multi Tier is helpful for those who have more than one cat at home. It has a useful and unique design with two levels. You don’t have to refill as often, and the elevated drinking dish helps your older pets with arthritis, whether it’s cats or dogs. So if you like the 360 multi-pet water fountain, but your cat or dog needs a little more assistance in reaching the water, this may be an option for you.

This has a filter that’s made of charcoal and can be easily replaced as and when required. Running water is fresher and has more oxygen, which makes it healthier than still water sources.

When connected to power, the filter clears all bad tastes and odors. This creates tastier and healthier water. With low wattage submersible pumps, this product is great for being quiet. The moving water is fresh and has more oxygen than traditional water bowls.

Drinkwell Rectangle Multi-Level Plastic Fountain Drinking Dish

It can be very easily cleaned in the dishwasher. All the parts except the filters are washable in the dishwasher. The filter, which collects the debris, should be changed periodically.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • The elevation makes it easier when your cat drinks
  • Features a pretty cool stream that will encourage your cat and adds a unique touch to your home
  • Great water fountains for felines and canines with arthritis!
  • Filters remove bad taste and odor
  • 100oz water capacity
  • Minimal power consumption

Keep In Mind:

  • The water filter needs to be changed regularly when used often
  • More suited for indoor usage
  • Try to keep the bottom tier filled up, or it can get a little noisy

 

5. Pioneer Pet Raindrop Water Fountain

 

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

This ceramic water fountain is stylish and complements many interior decors. Weighing about 4 pounds dry, this is easily one of the most stylish options available water fountains on the market.
The flow of the streamed water is adjustable and is very helpful for sick and older cats. More than anything, it provides tasty and healthier water, free from bad odors with the help of its filters (charcoal).

No batteries needed – easy peasy! The filters clean the water and make it free of debris and larger dust particles.
Since it’s a heavy ceramic water fountain, it needs to be handled carefully. Any stains can be removed if it is cleaned regularly. The filters are not safe for dishwashers but the rest of the parts are. If you want a quiet fountain, this is one of the best choices!

Why It’s So Popular:

  • The product material inhibits bacterial growth
  • Sleek and modern raindrop design, complements interior decor
  • Comes with 60 oz
  • Circulating water stream attracts cats
  • Dishwasher safe
  • No batteries required
  • Heavy-duty design that is durable and strong
  • Safe and low energy consumption
  • Long convenient power cord
  • Filtration system

Keep In Mind:

  • Suitable for indoor use only
  • The pump starts to make noise when the water level goes down, so remember to keep it filled near max capacity.
  • Handle with care
  • Stains can show up quite easily in the black ones

6. Drinkwell 360 Fountain, 128oz

 

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

Best for households with multiple cats, Drinkwell 360 water fountain helps provide fresh, oxygenated water. It features an impressive amount of water which is 1 gallon which is enough to feed multiple pets. The filters made of charcoal remove any bad odors and collects larger particles.

Fitted with the multiple tip rings, it is recommended for those who have more than one cat at home.

The filters trap dust and other unwanted particles. It also removes any bad odors. It only uses low voltage, circulating the stream through the filter. Through the spot heads, the stream falls freely and adds to the freshness of the water.

All the parts of the product can be easily dismantled. Regular cleaning is necessary to keep it odor and stain free. The filters help to trap dust and debris. The parts of this awesome fountain can be used in dishwashers except for the filters.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • Replaceable filters (charcoal)
  • Multiple spout heads which makes it great for the multiple animals at once
  • 128 oz
  • The submerged pump makes it quiet and noise-free
  • Rubber feet prevent it from sliding over slick surfaces
  • Made of BPA-free plastics
  • Top shelf dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning
  • Adjustable flow control cap so you can control and customize the flow

Keep In Mind:

  • Not a good fit for bigger pets; small cats will find it comfortable
  • Fit for indoor use only

7. Aspen Cool Flow Cat Fountain

 

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

The Aspen cat water dispenser fountain has water in the reservoir, which makes it even more useful. The filters can be replaced as and when required. The pump provided with the product easily fits into an AC wall adapter. Choose from 50 oz capacity, medium, or 3.8 pounds. Read my Aspen review here.

Featuring flowing water, this product is loved by those who have more than one cat. The free-flowing stream means the water gets enriched with more oxygen as it moves through the system. This adds to its freshness as compared to stagnant stores of water.

This water fountain has charcoal filters which are used for removing debris and large particles. Bad tastes and smells also get eliminated as the water flows through the filters. As soon as it is plugged in, the filters circulate the water and make it tastier and healthier for your cats.

All the parts of the products are easily dismantled. The plastic parts are safe for any kind of dishwasher except the filter; the filters need to get replaced periodically.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • Comes with a submersible pump; noise-free operation
  • Can be used for multiple small animals
  • Easy to clean; dismantle and reassemble
  • Water doesn’t splash onto the ground
  • Made of plastic which is easy to handle, fuss-free, easy to clean yet looks great!

Keep In Mind:

  • It is suited for indoor use
  • It does start making noise when the level falls so be sure to keep it filled up to the max water capacity.

8. Pioneer Pet Stainless Steel Pet Drinking Fountain

 

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

 This water fountain does a good job of attracting cats towards its stream. The sleek and elegant texture of the product complements any household interior.

This fountain has a capacity of 60oz. With its continuous flow of moving water, the bowl remains clean. Also, with the replaceable filters (charcoal), cleanliness, and purity are maintained. It is fitted with an electric pump with low power voltage, which makes it safe to use. It also has a 1.82m long power cord. The premium steel drinking water fountain looks elegant and posh in any interior.

As the name suggests, this is designed to look like a raindrop. The stream cascades down towards the inclined part in the bowl after it bubbles up. Water is constantly circulated for the best freshness!

It’s a breeze to clean. Simply unplug the motor, wash the bowl in the dishwasher, and change the filter regularly. You may use a little vinegar for quicker drying. Make sure you stack the parts sequentially. Reassemble the parts after cleaning and drying. Repeat the procedure regularly.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • Simple to clean, assemble and dismantle
  • The whirling stream does a good job of attracting cats
  • Fitted with replaceable pump
  • Sophisticated and minimalistic design

Keep In Mind:

  • Be sure to clean it regularly, so it doesn’t have stains
  • You may need to realign the pump propeller from time to time

9. Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum 168oz Pet Fountain

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

This water fountain deserves a mention on our list. It’s also got five stars from customers and high ratings. The Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum 168oz capacity will keep your fur kids healthy and hydrated best by encouraging them to drink more running water. This modern-designed fountain gives a flowing stream of oxygen-aerated h20, which is essential for a healthy cat.

The taste also gets better with the activated carbon filters. Fitted with a submersible pump, the fountain works noiselessly. Also, the low voltage operation makes it safe for the use of cats. With a capacity of 168oz, it has simple features that make it user-friendly.

The unit does not need to be connected to any pipeline. The submerged pump works silently and traps bigger particles. The flow level is adjustable to suit the preferences of your cat.

This fountain is dishwasher-safe and should be cleaned regularly for high-quality water. The filter must also be changed periodically as it collects all the debris.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • Comes with adjustable flow controls and a carbon filter
  • Large liquid capacity
  • High quality; food-grade plastic
  • The motor is extremely quiet
  • Replaceable filters (charcoal)
  • The built-in reservoir means you don’t have to keep refilling, and the capacity is increased

Keep In Mind:

  • Not suitable for dog water fountain outdoor use

 


10. Catit Flower Pet Water Fountain

catit

Check Latest Price Here + More Details

This adorable Catit flower automatic pet fountain is hard to miss. Besides its unique design, you’ll be happy to know it’s extremely effective as a stainless steel water fountain. Catit flower fountain has a small but powerful pump that ensures your cat has a constant supply of water in the BPA-free reservoir. You can choose from 3 different settings for the flow of the water, and it’s also very easy to clean. If you want a pet fountain that won’t be an eyesore, this is it. It’s also effective at filtering out dirt and hair with its filtration system.

Why It’s So Popular:

  • Comes with 3 adjustable flow settings
  • 3 Liter
  • Top quality; food-grade plastic
  • The motor is extremely quiet
  • Replaceable 3 Stage Filters
  • Great water fountains for older cats who can’t lean down

Keep In Mind:

  • Not suitable for use as an outdoor fountain
  • Best suited for cats or smaller pets

What is a Pet Fountain?

Fountains are an excellent way to provide clean, circulating water to your cats and to avoid stagnant water. Kind of like a cat water station. A traditional water bowl isn’t the best for drinking, even if you change the water regularly. Dust, food particles, and hair all end up in it to make the water less than appealing.

There is also stagnant water in the bowl, which cats avoid in nature. This means it is less likely your cat will drink from it. Cat water fountains in 2022 come in a variety of designs and levels of complexity. But in essence, they are made up of a basin and a top, with a water pump that pushes water from the first to the latter, and a filtration system to keep the water clean, and typically has a decent liquid capacity.

The water then falls back down to the basin, and the mechanism repeats. This creates a continuous flow that will ensure the drinking water stays fresh. Many fountains also come with filters to catch everything that ends up in the water so that it stays clean for your pet to drink. Generally, the velocity of the flow can be adjusted to suit your cat’s specific needs or preferences.

Sometimes, a fountain can make soft gurgling noises. Others are completely silent, so there is a wide range of choices for cat owners to choose from.

How Much Water Does a Pet Fountain Hold?

Water Capacity is an important factor to consider when buying water fountains for your cat. There are many different sizes available. An average-sized water fountain will contain about 70 ounces of water, and some bigger fountains will easily go up to 160 ounces of water.

If you have multiple cats, getting a fountain with a large capacity is the best solution to provide for their drinking needs.

However, cat water fountains do not replenish themselves. Regardless of size, you are going to need to check the water supply frequently and make sure there’s plenty of water for your cats.

Keeping Your Cat Water Fountain Clean

Regardless of which one you use, it is essential to know how best to maintain them well. Here is a look at a few tips that can help you maintain your water fountains for years to come.

  • Be careful when you are assembling the filters
  • Use vinegar to remove stains
  • Take care of the alignment of the pumps or the flow will be hampered

You do need to fill up with fresh h20 every day or alternate days and clean the parts thoroughly. You also need to change the filters periodically. Even so, this is an investment that’s definitely worth the health of your fur kid.

Best Water Fountains For Cats Benefits: Why Get One?

  • Fountains give your cat clean water throughout the day. My cat Lilo hates drinking. We all love our cats and only want to give them the best quality food that we possibly can. So why shouldn’t we do the same for liquid intake?
  • Every cat owner can attest to the fascination that cats and dogs have with dripping taps or flowing little streams of rainwater. Cats like them! One of the reasons behind this might be the genetic thirst drive of your cats. This means dogs and water fountains cats prefer stream water sources over stagnant water.
  • The built-in filtering water system makes it best for those of us leading busy lives. With some models, the reservoir is big enough to supply moving water for a few days if you are going on a short vacation.
  • These use a small submersible motor that circulates the water from the bowl to the tank and back again. During this process, it passes through a filter (charcoal) to make sure all impurities have been removed for the highest water quality.
  • It helps with convenience. You won’t have to replace the water daily as it has a filter, or some models come with big water reservoirs to provide your fur kids with a larger supply. It even helps to keep the air in your home clean and fresh!

Choosing the Right Material

When choosing a water fountain for your kitty to drink from, there are many things to consider. An important factor is the material the fountains are made of. Each comes with its pros and cons and you need to know what to look for in a cat fountain.

  • Plastic

These are the most common type of cat water fountains with immediate benefits. They are generally the cheapest options. Their lightweight materials make carrying and moving them around effortless, and they are harder to break.

However, cats can scratch the plastic with teeth and claws. This creates dents in the material where bacteria can hide and breed, thwarting your efforts at keeping your pets’ water supply clean.

If you get a plastic water fountain, check it regularly to ensure it’s still intact and smooth out any scratches or replace it when it gets too battered.

Also, be sure to buy a water fountain made from phthalate, BPS, and BPA-fee plastic. Toxic chemicals in some plastics can leak into the water supply and harm your cats.

  • Stainless steel construction

Steel fountains are excellent alternatives to plastic ones, as they are safe from any toxic chemical leakage that may harm cats. They are also impossible to scratch, so your cat is protected from the bacterial proliferation risks of plastic fountains.

Steel will last for a long time and thus can be a good investment for the future. However, it’s important to consider a price range with steel options, as the cheaper fountains may rust over time and need replacing.

  • Ceramic

Out of the different types of materials for fountains, this is definitely more on the pricey side. Ceramic fountains are decorative additions to any room. They come in various designs that give a touch of class to what is an otherwise quite mundane (and sometimes messy) activity.

It also resists the acidity of water, so these fountains are sure to last a long time. The only drawback is they can be a bit heavy and fragile, so make sure you put them out of harm’s way if you want to preserve them from breakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Must I have separate water fountains for my different pets?

It’s important for your pets to have separate food bowls, toys, and even litter boxes as they can be quite territorial with their belongings. When it comes to water bowls, pets often doesn’t mind sharing. In the wild, they would all come to the same river, for example.

Make sure you buy a larger water fountain to supply water for more cats. Place it away from litter boxes and food bowls to prevent any contamination of bacteria.

How can I help my cat adjust to its new water fountain?

Animals don’t enjoy sudden changes in their environments. Especially for important aspects like their water supply. The rapid movement or gurgling sounds of the fountains can seem threatening. Or simply strange to some animals, which will dissuade them from drinking.

It’s going to take some time for your cat to feel safe and comfortable with its new fountain, so be patient during the process. You might initially try shutting down the pump so that the water is still like in a traditional water bowl.

Then progress to turning the pump on once your cat has adapted to drinking from it.

My cat has recently been reluctant to drink.

Maybe your cat used to drink eagerly from the cat water fountain but not anymore. There might be a few different issues at play here. It is possible that your water fountain isn’t working properly anymore. Cats are very sensitive to the presence of contaminants in their water. So they won’t drink if there’s food, dust, hair, or other debris in their fountain.

Of course, if there are, it means something isn’t working as it should. The filter might need to be cleaned, or perhaps even the entire pump mechanism.

Our cats need an ample supply of fresh and clean water, and sometimes we as owners overlook this. There are many water fountains you can buy. By using the best cat water fountain, we can ensure that they get their share of healthy, fresh h20. Hope our cat water fountain reviews have helped you find the best!

7 Comments

  • Lauren says:

    Question. When it says not suitable for outdoor use does that include the garage? My cat keeps getting worms in his stagnant water outside (in the garage) even though it gets cleaned every two days. I want to find a fountain that will keep the water moving and free from worms. I know it’ll still need to be cleaned

    • Shannon says:

      I don’t think your car is getting worms from the fountain. Indoor cats can get them from insects, mice, and cats that go outdoors will almost always have them. My cat is going through worms now AGAIN and it’s awful. My poor boy.

  • Petsho Shop says:

    There are many kinds of water fountains with a filter. They can make the water fresh and pure for your cat or your dog. The important thing that you should do is to change water filtering cartridge within time.

  • Amber says:

    I have the second fountain, the Pioneer Pet Stainless Steel Fountain Raindrop Design and it’s hands down one of the best drinking fountains for cats. I adopted a stray cat a few years back and she turned out to be very picky about anything; her food, her water, everything has to be in a squeaky clean bowl otherwise she won’t touch them. Cleaning the filter is not as simple as I wanted but she has fresh water at her disposal, regardless if I’m home or not, so I’m gonna live with it.

  • steven g says:

    We own the Pioneer ceramic fountain — most annoying thing to clean! The water staining is only removable with a Brillo pad and vinegar or dishwasher, the carbon filter is not easy to change, and the water becomes very alkaline regardless of environmental factors or water source. Frustrating fountain to own. On a good note, the filters are easily reusable by prying open the used filer and replacing the active carbon your self (active charcoal from any pet store will do)

  • Julie says:

    I have owned a Drinkwell platinum for probably 10 years and it is still going strong. I was going to see if any others were easier to clean since my 84 year old mother is using it now. It seems that they need some disassembling to clean them, so I will stick with this one. Have always been happy with it and so are the kitties

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *