Cat water fountains are designed to provide a continuous stream of fresh, flowing water for our feline friends. Many cats are fussy about their drinking water, and will turn their whiskers up at a bowl of water that’s been sat for a few days. Dehydration in cats can lead to some serious health issues, so providing your cat with a source of water that they’re happy to drink from is vital.
We reviewed dozens of cat water fountains with the goal of finding the very best cat water fountains available on the market today. We considered features including the size, materials, and price of each fountain when making our selection. We also took into account the ratings and reviews that each product got from customers whose cats use these fountains on a daily basis.
For a place for your cat to comfortably perch while he watches outside, consider The Best Cat Window Perches.
As our top pick, we selected the Veken Pet Fountain. This stood out as a clear winner thanks to its range of amazing features, combined with value for money. The 2.5-liter capacity bowl is combined with a cute flower fountain to encourage your cats to drink more water.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Cat Water Fountains
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Cat Harness Overall | Veken Cat Water Fountain | 4.4 |
| Best Electric Cat Water Fountain | Catit Flower Cat Water Fountain | 4.2 |
| Best Budget Cat Water Fountain | Mospro Cat Water Fountain | 4.4 |
| Best Ceramic Cat Water Fountain | iPettie Tritone Ceramic Cat Water Fountain | 4.7 |
| Best Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain | Beacon Pet Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at time of publication and can change
Best Overall Cat Water Fountain: Veken Pet Fountain
The Veken Pet Fountain combines a huge range of features, with an attractive price. Even better, this cat fountain has been reviewed by thousands of happy customers. The 2.5-liter bowl is made from BPA free plastic and is a great size for cats. The fountain on the top can be used with or without the cute flower attachment and has 3 different flows – a waterfall, bubble, and gentle fountain. This is a great feature as it means you can try them all and see which one your cat seems to prefer.
The triple filtration system includes activated carbon, a layer of cotton, and an ion exchange resin. This removes hair residue and chlorine, as well as improving the taste of the water. You also get 3 replacement filters included. This cat fountain also comes with a silicon mat designed to sit underneath and catch any water your cat may spill. As well as the fact that this fountain is a hit with their cats, reviewers love the ultra-quiet, low energy consumption pump which powers this fountain.
Veken Pet Fountain Key Features:
- Ultra-quiet pump
- 3 different flow designs
- Triple filtration system
Best Electric Cat Water Fountain: Catit Flower Fountain
As our best electric cat water fountain, we selected the Catit Water Fountain. The 3-liter reservoir means there’s always fresh water available for your cat, while the water level indicator on the side makes it easy to see when it needs refilling. If you love matching items for your cat, you can also buy a coordinating Catit Multi Feeder.
This water fountain has 3 different water flow settings and is made from BPA free plastic, The ergonomic design provides a stress-free drinking surface which won’t irritate your cat’s sensitive whiskers. Reviewers note that their cats love drinking from the flower surface, as well as mentioning that this fountain is super easy to keep clean.
Catit Flower Fountain Key Features:
- Easy to clean
- Triple filtration system
- 2 colors: green and blue
Best Budget Cat Water Fountain: Mospro Cat Water Fountain
Our selection for the best budget cat water fountain is the Mospro Cat Water Fountain. Coming in at under $20 this water fountain still provides a great range of features that give you bang for your buck. The 2-liter capacity reservoir holds plenty of water for your pets, so no need to worry if you’re out all day at work. The BPA free plastics used are environmentally friendly and non-toxic too.
You can select from 3 different flow settings – flower waterfall, bubble fountain, or gentle fountain. The triple action filter acts to remove hair and other residues, as well as improve the taste and smell of the water within the fountain. As an added bonus, this cat water fountain also offers a 12-month warranty and on-call technical support.
Mospro Cat Water Fountain Key Features:
- Includes 2 replacement filters
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Ergonomic design
Best Ceramic Cat Water Fountain: iPettie Tritone Ceramic Cat Water Fountain
After reviewing dozens of ceramic cat water fountains, we selected the iPettie Tritone Ceramic Cat Water Fountain as the best choice out there. Styled to resemble a classic bird bath design, this fountain is made from eco-friendly and non-toxic ceramic of the highest quality. The triple free-fall design of the fountain allows more oxygen to enter the water, keeping it fresh for your cat.
The dual-action filter uses both carbon and charcoal to remove odors and chemicals which may put your cat off from drinking the water. The fountain is extremely easy to assemble and can be cleaned by simply wiping it down on a regular basis. The ceramic won’t leach any cleaning products, meaning your cat’s water will stay fresh for longer.
iPettie Tritone Ceramic Cat Water Fountain Key Features:
- 2.1-liter capacity
- Quiet operation
- Available in blue and white
Best Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain: Beacon Pet Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
As the best stainless steel cat water fountain, we chose the Beacon Pet Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain. If your cat is used to drinking from a stainless steel bowl, they may prefer the same material in their new cat water fountain. The 360-degree drinking design means multiple cats can drink from this fountain at the same time, which combined with the large capacity reservoir make it a great choice for multi-cat households.
The 3 different flow options mean you’re sure to find one your cat prefers. The LED indicator light on the reservoir will let you know if the water level is becoming low, or if the power has been switched off. A triple filtration system means the water will stay tasting and smelling fresh, and as an added bonus this comes with 3 replacement filters.
Beacon Pet Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain Key Features:
- Large 2.4-liter capacity
- Easy to clean
- Ultra-quiet pump
Who Should Buy a Cat Water Fountain
If you own a cat, investing in a cat water fountain is an excellent idea. Many cats prefer to drink from a moving water source, as from an evolutionary point of view, they’ve learned that standing water can be stagnant or full of bacteria. Cats can be pretty fussy creatures, and the water in their bowl may also smell full of chemicals to them if it’s left unfiltered.
Cats don’t have the same drive to drink as many other animals, which can be a problem if your cat eats a diet of mainly dry food. This can lead them to become dehydrated, which increases the risk of them developing illnesses including kidney disease, and urinary tract infections. Encouraging your cat to drink more by offering them a water fountain is a great way to keep them as well-hydrated as possible.
Important Features to Consider
A cat water fountain should have a few important features, Here’s what to look for when selecting the best cat water fountain for your feline friend:
- Capacity. Cat water fountains are available in a range of sizes, so make sure you select one which will suit the number of cats you own. You don’t want to be refilling your fountain constantly, or changing out old water too often. Cats fed a diet of exclusively dry food will usually drink more than those who eat a wet or mixed diet. Bear in mind as well that cats prefer a wide drinking area which doesn’t brush their whiskers, so look for a fountain with a large open section.
- Filter. Many cat water fountains also contain a filter which purifies the water as it circulates. Cats often dislike the chemical odor of treated tap water, so this feature can encourage them to drink eve more. Make sure you check if you need to buy replacement filters, and how often they need replacing.
- Materials. Cat water fountains are available in a wide range of materials including plastic, stainless steel, ceramic, and porcelain. Some types of plastic can retain smells and bacteria, so some cats prefer stainless steel or ceramic. Plastic cat water fountains are easy to clean though. Ceramic is a great material for resisting smells, but it is breakable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cat water fountain and how does it work?
A cat water fountain is designed to provide a continuously moving source of water for your cat to drink from. As we just mentioned, many cats prefer to drink from a trickling water source, and will go thirsty rather than drink from a bowl of standing water which doesn’t appeal to them. Cat water fountains usually contain a small electronic pump, which circulates the water to keep it moving. As it does so, the water passes through a small filter so it also stays well oxygenated, fresh and clean.
Does my cat need a water fountain?
Many cats prefer drinking from a water fountain, and will choose them over a bowl of standing water if given the choice. If you see your cat trying to drink from a dripping faucet, batting at the water in their bowl before drinking, or approaching their water bowl before turning away without taking a drink, the chances are they could benefit from a water fountain.
How often should I change the water in a cat water fountain?
We recommend changing the water in your cat’s water fountain at least every other day. It’s a good idea to give the fountain a quick clean at the same time.
Do cats drink more water from a cat water fountain?
Given the choice between a water bowl and a fountain, the majority of cats will drink more from a fountain which provides clean and fresh running water. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your cat’s water consumption, although this is certainly easier with indoor cats! If your cat isn’t used to a water fountain, leave their old water bowl out as well to allow them time to get used to the new water source.
Other Cat Water Fountains We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other cat water fountains. While they didn’t make the 5 best cat water fountains, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your cat. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included in the listing.
- Ceramic and Porcelain Cat Water Fountains
- Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountains
- Electric Cat Water Fountains
- Cat Water Fountains with Sensor
Ceramic and Porcelain Cat Water Fountains
Aurora Porcelain Cat Water Fountain
This porcelain cat water fountain is super quiet, and the smooth, non-scratch surface is excellent at staing bacteria-free for longer.
Key Features:
- Quiet operation
- Dual filtration
- Includes cleaning brushes
Cost: $58
Cephus 360 Ceramic Cat Water Fountain
The classic and minimalistic styling of this ceramic water fountain combines with a triple filtration system to provide a steady stream of fresh water for your cat.
Key Features:
- Free falling fountain design
- Easy to clean
- 18-month warranty
Cost: $57
Dingqu Lotus Cat Water Fountain
This beautiful ceramic cat water fountain incorporates a graceful lotus flower with a gentle stream of water falling into a small pool below.
Key Features:
- Available in 4 colors
- Dual filtration system
- 1.5-liter capacity
Cost: $40
iPettie Cupcake Porcelain Cat Water Fountain
This cat water fountain features a multi-tiered design, based on the shape of a cupcake. The reinforced porcelain is dishwasher safe, while the 2 stage filtration system keeps water fresh and clean.
Key Features:
- 2.1-liter capacity
- Ultra quiet pump
- 3-year warranty
Cost: $62
PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda Cat Water Fountain
The pagoda design of this ceramic cat water fountain provides two drinking areas for your cat, as well as a falling stream of water.
Key Features:
- 70-ounce capacity
- Available in 4 colors
- 2 bowl levels
Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountains
Catit Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
With veterinarians recommending stainless steel as one of the most hygienic materials for your pet’s water bowl, this cat water fountain is a great choice.
Key Features:
- 64-ounce capacity
- Dual filtration
- Soft bubbling fountain
Cost: $43
This cat water fountain combines a dishwasher safe stainless steel dish with a plastic reservoir. It offers 3 different flow designs and incorporates a flower waterfall.
Key Features:
- LED water level indicator
- 2.5-liter capacity
- Dishwasher safe
Cost: $25
This minimalist design hides plenty of great features, including an LED water level indicator, and auto-shut off pump.
Key Features:
- Battery operated
- 1.35-liter capacity
- Triple filtration system
Cost: $70
PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
The innovative design of this cat water fountain provides 5 free falling streams, with the ability to customize the flow speed to suit your pet’s preferences.
Key Features:
- 128-ounce capacity
- Dishwasher safe
- Uses carbon filtration
Cost: $70
Pioneer Pet Raindrop Cat Water Fountain
The raindrop shape of this cat water fountain lends a modern and minimalistic feel to your decor. The gentle flowing waterfall will encourage your cat to drink more.
Key Features:
- Dishwasher safe
- 60-ounce capacity
- Replaceable charcoal filter
Electric Cat Water Fountains
iPettie Kamino Cat Water Fountain
This cat water fountain features a USB port, plus an on-off switch on the power cord.
Key Features:
- 3-liter capacity
- Available in 3 colors
- USB port pump
Cost: $35
This oval fountain offers the choice of two flow settings – flower bubble, or gentle fountain.
Key Features:
- 2.5-liter capacity
- Multi-layer filtration
- 12-month warranty
Cost: $50
The fully transparent design of this cat water fountain means it’s super easy to tell when the water level is running low.
Key Features:
- 1.5-liter design
- Dual filtration
- BPA free
Cost: $20
Petsafe Seascape Cat Water Fountain
This stylish cat water fountain features a gentle flow of water running over a central sphere.
Key Features:
- Dishwasher safe ceramic
- 70-ounce capacity
- Gray in color
Cost: $85
This features a tall fountain with an adjustable flow so you can customize for your cat.
Key Features:
- 51-ounce capacity
- LED light
- Easy to clean
Cat Water Fountains with Sensor
This offers a smart mode where the flow of water will stop intermittently – saving you power and conserving the filtration system.
Key Features:
- 2-liter capacity
- 4 stage filtration
- LED water level indicator
Cost: $30
Ezvov Intelligent Cat Water Fountain
The automatic power-off function of this fountain will kick in when the water level runs low, to prevent your pump burning out.
Key Features:
- LED water level indicator
- Includes 3 replacement filters
- 2.4-liter capacity
Cost: $27
HomeRunPet Automatic Cat Water Fountain
The angle of the drinking surface of this fountain is designed to prevent water splashes, and help your cat drink more easily.
Key Features:
- 2-liter capacity
- Automatic shutoff
- One year warranty
Cost: $40
HoneyGuardian Automatic Cat Water Fountain
This easy to clean cat water fountain is BPA free and offers a gently tilted surface for your cat to drink from.
Key Features:
- 2-liter capacity
- Dual stage filtration
- Easy to clean
Cost: $22
Petkit Automatic Cat Water Fountain
The smart mode on this fountain provides a high water flow during the day, switching to a low water flow at night.
Key Features:
- 2-liter capacity
- 4 stage filtration
- LED water level indicator
Cost: $36
