Some cats are notoriously picky drinkers, often turning up their noses at a bowl of stagnant water. But that is where a cat water fountain can be helpful. It provides a continuous flow of fresh water (which cats love!) and hence encourages your cat to drink more. Just like humans and other animals, proper hydration is an important part of their wellness. Water fountains come in various designs with different features — from quiet motors to adjustable flow settings, there’s a perfect match for every cat’s personality and breed.
Many cats prefer running water over stagnant bowls. This preference is rooted in their instincts, as moving water is often fresher and less likely to harbor bacteria. A cat water fountain mimics this natural preference, offering a more appealing option for your pet.
Choosing the best cat water fountain involves considering factors like size, material, and ease of cleaning. Let’s step into the refreshing world of water fountains for your feline friend and explore the top-rated options on the market.
What Kind of Water Fountain Is Best for Cats?
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Material
Cat water fountains are typically made from plastic, stainless steel, or ceramic. Stainless steel and ceramic are often recommended because they are more durable and less likely to harbor bacteria compared to plastic. They are also easier to clean and less likely to cause allergic reactions in sensitive cats.
Size and Capacity
The size of the fountain should match the number of cats you have and their drinking habits. A larger capacity fountain is ideal for multi-cat households or if you’re away from home for extended periods, ensuring a constant supply of fresh water.
Filtration System
A good filtration system is crucial for maintaining water quality. Look for fountains with replaceable carbon or charcoal filters that remove impurities, odors, and bad tastes, encouraging your cat to drink more.
Noise Level
Some cats are sensitive to noise, so a quiet motor is essential. Opt for a fountain with a low-noise pump to avoid scaring your cat away from drinking.
Ease of Cleaning
Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent bacteria and mold buildup. Choose a fountain with parts that are easy to disassemble and dishwasher-safe for hassle-free maintenance.
Design and Flow Settings
Cats have different preferences for water flow. Some enjoy a gentle stream, while others prefer a bubbling surface. Look for a fountain with adjustable flow settings to cater to your cat’s preferences.
Are Water Fountains Safe for Cats?
Yes, water fountains are generally safe for cats. In fact, they can be beneficial for your cat’s health by encouraging increased water intake. However, there are a few safety considerations:
Hygiene
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent bacterial growth and maintain a healthy environment for your cat. Disassemble the fountain weekly and clean all parts thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
Power Cord
Ensure the power cord is securely hidden to prevent your cat from chewing on it. Consider using cable protectors or placing the fountain in an area out of reach.
Water Quality
Use filtered or bottled water to reduce the risk of contaminants. Regularly change the water to maintain freshness and prevent stagnation. Consider using a water filter designed specifically for pet fountains.
Supervision
Monitor your cat’s behavior around the fountain, especially for kittens or elderly cats. Some cats may play excessively or become overly reliant on the fountain. Provide alternative water sources to encourage variety.
The Best Cat Water Fountains to Buy in 2025
Choosing the right water fountain can significantly impact your cat’s hydration and overall well-being. Here are our picks of the top-rated models on the market. Let’s find the perfect fit for your furry companion.
Veken Automatic Cat Water Fountain
Neareal Cat Water Fountain
Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain
AONBOY Cat Water Fountain
GIOTOHUN Cat Water Fountain
Cepheus Ceramic Cat Water Fountain
PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain
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Why We Love
Has a 95oz capacity
5-stage filtration system
Made from BPA-free, food-grade materials
Real-time monitoring of water intake
Quiet operation
Easy to clean
But…
Requires consistent cleaning to prevent bacterial buildup
With its 5-stage filtration system, the Veken Automatic Cat Water Fountain is our top pick for keeping your kitty hydrated. Its generous capacity ensures your pet will always have access to clean, fresh water. Crafted from high-quality, BPA-free materials, this fountain is not only safe but also easy to clean and maintain. Plus, a water-level window and an LED light allow you to monitor your pet’s water intake in real time and easily determine when a refill is needed.
This fountain features two distinct flow designs — a flower waterfall that looks and feels a lot like a faucet, and the other one is a gentle fountain. The first mode is ideal for cats who prefer drinking from a stream, and the second, for an overall calmer experience. What’s more? Quiet operation and energy-efficient design make this water dispenser an indispensable addition to your home.
Why We Love
Quadruple filtration system
108 oz/3.2 L capacity
Stainless steel construction
Easy to monitor water level
Ultra-silent pump
Easy maintenance
But…
Some users may find the initial six-step assembly slightly complex
The Neareal Cat Water Fountain combines functionality and style with its innovative design and premium materials. The quadruple filtration system works tirelessly to remove impurities, leaving behind only pure water that your cat will love to lap up. And because this water fountain is made from high-quality 304 stainless steel, it is also corrosion-resistant. You can also clean it with high-temperature water.
Featuring a convenient water level window, you can easily monitor water levels without removing the cover, and the gentle flow of water entices your cat to drink more frequently. The pump operates at a whisper-quiet ≤28 dB, ensuring a peaceful environment for your pet. When you want to clean it, simply disassemble it for hassle-free maintenance.
Why We Love
Has three water flow options
Comes with three carbon filters, a foam filter, and a mat
Pump operates at below 40 dB
Made with a high-grade stainless steel
Easy to assemble and disassemble
Features a water-level window
But…
The pump needs cleaning every two weeks
The Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain is designed with both durability and pet health in mind, featuring a high-grade stainless-steel top that is hygienic, dishwasher-safe, and built to last. With this set, you get three carbon filters, one foam filter, and one mat, and this will ensure you are serving your kitty with fresh and clean water.
Made from BPA-free, food-grade materials, you can be confident that this fountain is safe for your pets. Moreover, it is equipped with an upgraded, low-voltage pump and operates quietly at below 40 dB, making it a discreet addition to your home. You’ll also be happy to learn that it is easy to assemble, clean, and maintain.
Why We Love
Has an advanced filtration system
64 oz/2L capacity
Offers three flow options
Comes in different colors
The LED light helps monitor water levels
Low noise level at ≤30dB
But…
Regular replacement of filters is necessary to maintain water quality
This water fountain from Aonboy is designed to provide your pet with the freshest and cleanest water possible. Utilizing a sophisticated filtration system made from high-density cotton, coconut shell, activated carbon, and ion exchange resin, it effectively filters out impurities, removes odors, and softens water to improve taste.
The large 2L capacity basically means fewer refills, so that your furry companion can enjoy a stream of uninterrupted hydration. Built with durable and safe materials, this fountain also has three adjustable water flow modes that you can easily switch between if you or your cat so wishes. With its quiet operation (≤30dB) and energy-efficient operation, it also provides you with peace of mind, literally.
Why We Love
Features a triple filtration system
2L (64oz) capacity
Offers faucet and fountain modes
Comes in two colors
Detachable design for easy cleaning and maintenance
Clear water level indicator
But…
You have to replace the filters every 2-4 weeks
With its 64oz (2L) capacity, the GIOTOHUN Cat Water Fountain is designed to keep your pet hydrated. Fitted with a triple filtration system, it offers your cat a truly refreshing and clean drinking experience. This system not only provides cleaner, oxygen-rich water but also extends the life of the pump.
It is easy to take apart, which makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze, allowing you to easily replace or clean parts as needed. The built-in LED light and translucent water tank allow for easy monitoring of water levels, even in the dark. With an ultra-quiet, energy-saving pump operating at ≤30dB and consuming just 1.5W, this fountain is both pet-friendly and environmentally conscious.
Why We Love
Made from durable, scratch-resistant ceramic
Has a 70 oz/2.1L capacity
Ideal for multi-pet households
Efficient filtration system
Triple free-falling stream design adds oxygen to the water
Quick-release parts make disassembly and cleaning easy
But…
The ceramic material makes it heavier than the plastic ones
If you’re someone who isn’t a big fan of the way traditional cat water fountains look, you might like the elegant ceramic one from Cepheus. But more than looks, it delivers on pure hydration. The three-stage purification system is effective in filtering out hair and debris while also removing bad taste and odors. Additionally, the circulation system ensures the water is always fresh.
Cepheus 360 ceramic pet fountain’s large capacity ensures your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. The low water pressure, together with the pleasant surrounding environment of the water, promotes hydration and enhanced health. Plus, it uses a submersible, low-voltage pump that operates below 40 decibels, making it quite an amazing water dispenser for your cat and home.
Why We Love
Wireless design
Vertical filtration system
5,000mAh built-in rechargeable battery
Dual water modes
Induction mode conserves energy
Easy to clean
But…
In induction mode, if the sensor does not get triggered effectively, it may limit water access
The PETLIBRO Cat Water Fountain, with its Dockstream design, offers a revolutionary way to keep your cat hydrated. This battery-operated cat water fountain allows them access to fresh, clean water anywhere without the hassle of external wires. Thanks to its long-lasting 5,000mAh built-in rechargeable battery, you can enjoy worry-free freshness, even during power outages or while travelling.
Its dual water modes include an innovative induction mode with an advanced radar sensor that activates a 42-second flow when your cat is nearby, conserving power while encouraging them to drink more frequently. Alternatively, you can also plug it in for a continuous stream in regular mode.
How We Chose the Best Cat Water Fountains
At CatTime, our experts curated this list of the best cat water fountains by assessing factors such as capacity, filtration systems, shape and size of the fountain, flow modes, water level indicators, and overall appeal to cats. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
Is ceramic or stainless steel better for a cat water fountain?
Both ceramic and stainless steel make excellent choices for cat water fountains. Ceramic cat water fountains are heavier, more decorative, and resistant to scratches, while stainless steel cat water fountains are highly durable, easy to clean, and resistant to bacteria. The best choice depends on personal preference, aesthetics, and ease of cleaning for the owner. Both options are better than plastic in terms of hygiene and longevity.
Do cats prefer a water bowl or a fountain?
While many cats are drawn to running water, there’s no definitive preference between bowls and fountains. Some cats often prefer water fountains over bowls because the flowing water is fresher and more oxygenated, mimicking natural water sources, which makes them drink more. You can experiment with both options to determine your cat’s preference.
Do cat water fountains use a lot of electricity?
Cat water fountains use minimal electricity. Most consume less power than a standard light bulb. You can safely leave them running 24/7 without significantly impacting your energy bill.
What type of water do cats like best?
Cats typically prefer fresh, clean, and cool water. Flowing water from a fountain is often more appealing because it stays oxygenated and tastes fresher than stagnant water. Ensuring the water is free from strong odors and impurities can also encourage cats to drink more.
Where should I put my cat’s water fountain?
Place your cat’s water fountain in a quiet, accessible location. Avoid areas with high traffic or loud noises. Consider your cat’s preferred sleeping or lounging spots and position the fountain nearby. Make sure the power cord is safely concealed to prevent accidents.
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