Are Water Fountains Good for Cats? Pros & Cons

If you’re a cat owner, you know how picky they can be when it comes to drinking water. Unlike dogs, who’ll slurp up water from pretty much anywhere, cats can be a bit... high-maintenance. That’s where water fountains come into play-these have become a pretty popular choice for cat owners looking to encourage their pets to drink more. But are they actually worth it? But like everything, water fountains come with their own set of pros and cons. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether a water fountain is really a good choice for your furry friend and weigh out the benefits and drawbacks.

Why Hydration is Important for Cats

Keeping your cat properly hydrated is one of the best ways to keep them healthy. Proper hydration helps keep their kidneys functioning well, prevents urinary tract infections(UTIs), and even reduces the risk of kidney stones. Cats, especially those who eat dry food, can easily get dehydrated, which can lead to serous health issues. And trust me, you do not want to deal with a cat suffering from kidney issues- it’s painful for them and expensive for you.

Dehydration in cats can also cause problems like constipation, lethargy, and even organ failure in severe cases. And here’s the kicker: cats are naturally designed to get most of their moisture from their food. But since most of us feed our cats dry kibble, they’re not getting enough water from their diet alone. That’s why it’s so important to encourage them to drink more, and a water fountain cloud be the perfect solution. It’s not just about having water available; it’s about making it appealing to them!

What Are Cat Water Fountains?

Cat water fountains are basically like tiny, bubbling brooks for your feline friend! They work by continuously circulating water through a pump, keeping it fresh, oxygenated, and more appealing for your cat to drink. The idea is that cats are naturally drawn to running water because, in the wild, still water can be a breeding ground for bacteria. So, by mimicking a little stream or waterfall, these fountains encourage your cat to drink more. Pretty clever, right?

When it comes to types, there are plenty of options out there. You’ve got electric fountains, which need to be plugged in, and these usually come with filters to keep the water clean. Then there are non-electric ones, which rely more on gravity and don’t require a power source - but they might not be as effective at keeping the water moving.

Then there’s the material. You’ll fins fountains made of plastic, stainless steel, or ceramic. Plastic is the affordable and lightweight, but it can scratch easily and might harbor bacteria over time. Stainless steel and ceramic are more durable and easier to clean, but they’re also heavier and pricier. Personally, I’d go for stainless steel- it’s sleek, easy to maintain, and doesn’t absorb odors like plastic can.

Pros of Using Water Fountains for Cats

If you’re on the fence about getting a water fountain for your cat, let’s start with the good stuff - there are plenty of reasons why they’re a great idea!

l Encourages Drinking: If your cat is one of those picky drinkers who turns their nose up at a regular bowl, the movement of water in a fountain can catch their attention and make hydration more interesting. This is especially helpful for cats that tend to ignore their water bowls but love drinking from a running taps. So, if your cat’s hydration game is weak, a fountain could seriously level it up.

l Fresh, Clean Water: Nobody likes drinking stale water, and your cat is so exception. Because the water is constantly circulating, it doesn’t get that gross, stagnant feel(or smell) that happens with regular bowls. Plus, most fountains come with filters that trap debris and keep the water tasting clean.

l Prevents Stagnation: Stagnant water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and let’s be real we don’t always remember to change our cat’s water bowl as often as we should. But with a water fountain, the constant movement helps prevent that icky buildup. That means fewer trips to the vet for water-related health issues. Win-win!

l Better for Multiple Cats: If you’ve got more than one cat, a water fountain can make life easier. Instead of needing multiple water bowls, a good-sized fountain can keep all your cats hydrated without constant refilling.

l Engagement and Enrichment: Cats are naturally curious, and running water can be fun for them. Some cats even like to bat at the stream, making it a source of entertainment as well as hydration. It’s like a litter mental workout for them, which is always a bonus.

Cons of Using Water Fountains for Cats

Of cause, water fountains aren’t perfect. There are a few downsides to consider before making the switch.

Noise: Some fountains can be a bit loud, especially the cheaper models. If your cat is skittish or sensitive to sound, the hum or trickle of the fountain might freak them out instead of encouraging them to drink.

Maintenance: While the fountains keep the water cleaner they still need regular cleaning to prevent mold, bacteria, and mineral deposits. Filters need replacing, pumps need checking, if you’re not into the idea of weekly(or even daily) cleaning, a fountain might not be for you.

Cost: A good water fountain isn’t cheap. While a basic water bowl costs just a few bucks, a quality fountain can set you back anywhere from $30 to over $100, plus the cost of replacement filters.

Electricity Dependency: Electric fountains need to be plugged in, which means one more cord to manage. If you don’t have an outlet near where your cat’s water is, it can be a pain to set up. Plus, if the power goes out, your fountain stops working.

Space: Some fountains take up a decent amount of counter or floor space. If you live in a small apartment or don’t have an ideal spot to place one, a traditional bowl might still be the better option.

So, while cat water fountains have their downsides. But for many cats(and their humans), the pros outweigh the cons. It really comes down to your cat’s personality and your own lifestyle.

The Best Water Fountain for Your Cat

If you’re considering a water fountain for your cat, the Meowant stainless steel water fountain is a solid choice, which is not only super durable but also way easier to clean than plastic. No weird smells, no scratches trapping bacteria - just a sleek, hygienic surface your cat will love.

The Meowant pet fountain features a 3-layer filtration system that keeps the water crystal clear and free from hair, dirt, and other gunk. It’s got a quiet pump(seriously, it’s whisper-quiet), so even the most noise-sensitive cats won’t be spooked. Plus, it has multiple water flow modes - like a gentle fountain stream or a bubbling spring - so your cat can choose their drinking style.

Another awesome feature is the large water capacity(7 liters!) means you won’t have to refill it constantly, which is perfect for busy pet parents or multiple-cat households. And let’s not forget the LED indicator light that lets you know when it’s time to refill or clean. It’s like having a little hydration assistant for your cat.

Conclusion

Cat water fountains, like the Meowant stainless steel water fountain, offer plenty of benefits, including fresher water, better hydration, and added enrichment. However, they also require maintenance and cost more upfront than a regular bowl. Whether a fountain is right for your cat depends on their drinking habits and your willingness to keep it clean. If your cat loves running water, it might just be the perfect upgrade!