Is a Cat Water Fountain Worth It? Experts Say Yes

As a cat owner, you've probably thought about whether your furry friend is drinking enough water. Making sure your cat gets enough to drink is really important for their overall health and happiness. While most pet owners use regular water bowls, more and more experts are now saying that cat water fountains are a better choice. In this article, we'll talk about why it's so important for cats to stay hydrated, what vets and animal experts think about water fountains, and how these fountains can help your cat. We'll also walk you through how to pick the best fountain for your cat and give you some tips on how to get your pet used to it without any fuss.

Why Your Cat Needs to Drink Enough Water

Keeping your cat hydrated is key to their health and well-being. Let's dive into what you need to know about your cat's water needs.

How Much Water Do Cats Need?

Cats need to drink about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight each day. So, a 10-pound cat should drink between 7 to 9 ounces daily. This water can come from drinking and eating wet food.

What Happens When Cats Don't Drink Enough?

If your cat doesn't get enough water, they can become dehydrated. This can lead to health problems like:

Signs Your Cat Is Dehydrated

Keep an eye out for these signs that your cat might be dehydrated:

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to get your cat to drink more water and see your vet if the problem doesn't improve.

Scientific Evidence Supports Cat Water Fountains

Veterinarians and animal experts have weighed in on the benefits of cat water fountains, and their opinions are backed by scientific research. Let's take a closer look at what the studies have found.

Research has shown that cat water fountains can encourage cats to drink more. In a study by David C. Grant DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVIM, healthy cats were assigned to have their 24-hour water intake and urine osmolality and specific gravity measured when water was offered from a bowl or fountain. While the difference in urine osmolality was not significant, the study found that water intake was slightly greater from the fountain.

Another pilot study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior compared feline water consumption between still and flowing water sources. The mean water consumption rate for the flowing water source (115.44mL) was higher than for the still water source (109.83mL), although the difference was not statistically significant. The study suggested that individual cats may have a strong preference for one water source over the other.

While more research is needed to establish a definitive group preference, the available studies suggest that cat water fountains can be a valuable tool in encouraging cats to drink more water, which is especially important for cats with urolithiasis and idiopathic cystitis.

Benefits of Cat Water Fountains

Building on the expert opinions and research we've explored, let's dive deeper into the specific benefits that cat water fountains can offer your feline friend.

1. Filtration System Benefits

Most cat water fountains come with filtration systems that offer several benefits:

• Removing impurities: Filters can remove dirt, debris, and other impurities from the water, keeping it cleaner and healthier for your cat to drink.
• Keeping water fresh: As water circulates through the fountain and filter, it stays fresher and more oxygenated, which can make it more appealing to your cat.

2. Convenience for Owners

Cat water fountains can also be convenient for pet owners. Many fountains have large water capacities, which means you don't have to refill them as often as you would a traditional bowl. Some fountains are also dishwasher-safe, making cleaning a breeze.

3. Health Benefits

Proper hydration is crucial for your cat's overall health. By encouraging your cat to drink more water, cat water fountains can help support:

• Urinary tract health: Increased water intake can help flush out toxins and prevent the formation of crystals and stones in the urinary tract.
• Kidney function: Adequate hydration is essential for proper kidney function and can help prevent kidney disease.
• Digestive health: Drinking enough water can help prevent constipation and keep your cat's digestive system running smoothly.

4. Behavioral Enrichment

Cat water fountains can also provide mental stimulation and enrichment for your cat. The sound and movement of the flowing water can pique your cat's curiosity and encourage them to interact with the fountain, providing a source of entertainment and engagement.

How to Choose the Best Cat Water Fountain for Your Feline Friend

With so many cat water fountains on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. Let's explore the factors to consider when selecting a fountain and some popular models recommended by experts.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Cat Water Fountain

When choosing a cat water fountain, keep these important factors in mind:

• Material: Cat water fountains come in various materials, such as plastic, ceramic, and stainless steel. Plastic is lightweight and affordable but may harbor bacteria over time. Ceramic and stainless steel are more durable and hygienic but may be heavier and pricier.
• Size and water capacity: Consider your cat's size and the number of cats in your household when selecting a fountain. Ensure the fountain holds enough water to last at least a day or two, so you don't have to refill it constantly.
• Filter type: Look for fountains with high-quality filters that remove impurities and keep the water fresh. Some common filter types include charcoal, foam, and UV filters.
• Noise level: Some cats may be sensitive to the sound of running water. If your cat is easily startled, opt for a fountain with a quiet motor or adjustable water flow.
• Ease of cleaning: Choose a fountain that is easy to disassemble and clean. Some fountains have dishwasher-safe parts, which can make maintenance a breeze.

MeoWant Wireless Pet Water Fountain: The Best Choice

One cat water fountain that stands out for its innovative design and features is the MeoWant Wireless Pet Water Fountain. This fountain is crafted with BPA-free materials, ensuring the safety of your cat's drinking water. Its wireless design eliminates the hassle of dealing with wires in the water and makes cleaning a breeze.

The MeoWant fountain features a separate base that houses the power source, allowing you to easily lift the water tank for refilling and cleaning without unplugging the entire unit. The sophisticated circulation system reduces noise levels to just 30dB, making it virtually silent even during quiet nights.

With the included ion exchange resin and activated carbon filter that fits tightly into the groove, the MeoWant fountain ensures excellent filtration and superior longevity. This innovative design provides your cat with pure, refreshing water while making maintenance effortless for you.

Every cat is unique, so what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and give your cat time to adjust to their new water fountain.

How to Get Your Cat Used to a Water Fountain

Now that you've picked out the perfect water fountain for your cat, it's time to get them used to their new drinking spot. Here's an easy guide to help your cat adjust to their new fountain, along with some helpful tips from animal experts.

Step 1: Put the fountain in a quiet, easy-to-reach spot

Place the fountain where your cat feels comfortable and can get to it easily. Avoid busy areas or loud spots that might scare your cat.

Step 2: Let your cat check out the fountain while it's turned off

Give your cat a chance to sniff around and get familiar with the fountain before turning it on. This will help them get used to the new thing in their space.

Step 3: Get your cat interested in the fountain

Put some of your cat's favorite treats or toys near the fountain to make them feel good about it. You can also try rubbing a bit of catnip on the fountain to make them curious.

Step 4: Turn on the fountain and let your cat get used to it

Once your cat seems okay with the fountain, turn it on and let them watch the water flow. Don't make your cat drink from it; let them go to it when they're ready.

Step 5: Keep their old water bowl out while they get used to the new one

While your cat is still getting used to the fountain, keep their old water bowl out too. This way, they have a familiar place to drink from while they're adjusting.

Cats are different, and some might take longer to get used to a new water fountain than others. Be patient and don't give up – the long-term benefits of drinking more water are worth it in the end.

A Cat Water Fountain: Key to Your Furry Friend's Health

Getting a cat water fountain is a great way to show your love for your furry pal. It's not just a cute pet gadget – it can actually help keep your cat healthy by getting them to drink more water. This can prevent common kitty health problems like urinary tract issues, kidney disease, and tummy troubles. Plus, the moving water can give your cat some fun mental stimulation to keep them happy and entertained. While it might take a little time and patience to get your cat used to their new drinking spot, it's totally worth it in the long run. So, if you want an easy way to give your cat's health a boost, think about getting them a water fountain. Your kitty bestie will be super grateful!

References

• Grant, D. C. (2010). Effect of water source on intake and urine concentration in healthy cats. Journal of feline medicine and surgery, 12(6), 431-434.
• Pachel, C., & Neilson, J. (2010). Comparison of feline water consumption between still and flowing water sources: a pilot study. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 5(3), 130-133.
• Preventive Vet: How Much Water Cats Need & Dehydration Prevention