The Best Cat Water Fountains

What to Look For

Three features stuck out as essential considerations when choosing between fountains: water capacity, filter quality, and operational volume. Veken’s automatic fountain ticks all the boxes for us, with one of the largest capacities we could find at this price point and a triple filtration system that reliably delivers a clean water flow. Some pumps can be annoying when used indoors due to a noisy electric filter. If a low volume is your priority you’ll want to check out the option from Petlibro. Read on to learn more about our favorite picks.

Veken Automatic Pet Fountain

Spill proof

The splash mat at the base of this fountain keeps the messiest drinkers from wetting the floor.

Best Overall

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Thirsty cats are sure to enjoy a pit stop at this versatile fountain. The cute flower dispenser offers three distinct flow modes, giving even the most finicky cats a chance to find their preference. Thanks to the triple filtration system, any trace of chlorine and heavy metals are removed from the water source. This leaves your pets with the cleanest and tastiest hydration they can get their paws on.

Pros:

• The large 2.5-liter capacity offers enough water to quench your cat’s thirst and reduce the need for frequent refilling.
• It comes with a wide silicone base attached that’s perfect for catching spills when used indoors.
• The removable pump features a simple design that can be easily deconstructed for cleaning or maintenance.

Cons:

• The water spout can be tricky to clean without a small brush.

Wonder Creature Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain

Squeaky clean

Speed up your cleaning routine with this ultra-hygienic stainless steel design.

Runner Up

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Water fountains are a great way to treat your pet to a refreshing sip, but like any drinking appliance, they require regular maintenance and cleaning. This fountain features a stainless steel tray so you can maintain hygienic standards and keep nasty bacteria at bay. It’s also safe to load the tray into the dishwasher.

Pros:

• The well-lit opening on the side of the tank makes it easy to monitor the water level, so you’ll know when it’s time for a top-up.
• The 360-degree fountain serves to aerate the water for added freshness and allows multiple cats to drink at once.
• This low-voltage pump boasts an operational life of up to four years.

Cons:

• The bright metering light might make this pump an annoyance when used in dark rooms.

Petlibro Cat Water Fountain

Not a sound

If you can't stand the hum of electric pumps, this whisper-quiet fountain is worth considering.

Quietest Fountain

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The tranquil sanctuary of a water fountain can be spoilt by a noisy pump. However, Petlibro’s whisper-quiet design operates with silent grace, with a powerful pump that produces less than 23 decibels of noise. You won’t be in for any surprises when the tank empties, as the pump continues to operate at this ultra-quiet level even when water levels run low.

Pros:

• The powerful quadruple-filtration system softens water, removes bad tastes and odors, purges heavy metals, and removes hair and dusty debris. The result is a crystal clear water stream.
• The tank boasts a large capacity of 2.1 liters, meaning less time between refills.
• The water tray’s larger than average capacity of 80 milliliters, ensures your pets won’t go thirsty in the event of a power outage.

Cons:

• This front-facing fountain might not be suitable for multiple cats that want to drink simultaneously.

Kastty Cat Water Fountain

Pure as can be

Treat your pet to the purest drinking water with this multi-filtration fountain.

Best Filter

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Though you might occasionally catch your furry friend taking a sip from puddles outdoors, it doesn’t mean that they won’t benefit from having access to the best quality water. This fountain combines powerful filtering technologies to produce the tastiest and purest hydration for your pet. For example, the PP cotton layer provides an impenetrable defense against hair, dust, and debris. This works in combination with coconut shell active carbon filtering and an active pump pre-filter to remove the most common pollutants before they reach the drinking tray.

Pros:

• The tank can be illuminated by a colorful LED light, offering a scenic touch and signaling the location of the fountain in the dark.
• The pump’s automatic sensor detects when water levels run low and shuts down before it’s damaged.
• The clear tank makes it easy to keep an eye on the water level inside.

Cons:

• This fountain isn’t as quiet as some other options.

Kastty Battery Operated Cat Water Fountain

Anywhere you want it

Without the need for a wall socket, this fountain can be placed wherever you see fit.

Best Battery Operated

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Most electric fountains require an outlet to operate, which could leave you scratching your head if you want to use it somewhere else, like outside. Kastty’s battery-operated option leaves the choice of placement to your imagination. Though you might think that the batteries will run dry in a flash, the infrared sensor above the drinking tray will only activate the fountain when your pet stops for a drink.

Pros:

• This battery-operated pump is quieter than many powered options, with an operational volume of up to only 35 decibels.
• Four AA batteries are included in the box, so you can get this fountain up and running right away.

Cons:

• You might have to replace the batteries as often as every two weeks if your cats make frequent use of this fountain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my cats be safe with the electrical components inside a water fountain?

We all know that water and electricity don’t mix, so you might be wary of introducing inquisitive cats to these water fountains. Most designs feature a concealed pump on the inside of the tank that your cats won’t be able to access. If you’re still feeling cautious, try supervising them the first few times they take a drink.

How often do I have to change the filters in my fountain?

The fountains we reviewed don’t just catch the eye; they also deploy filters to clean each drop of water before it reaches your pet’s mouth. These filters need to be regularly changed to clean the water as intended and prevent a buildup of dirt or microorganisms in the water flow. Most pumps recommend changing the filter every 2-4 weeks, but make sure you check specific manufacturer guidance once you purchase.

About the Author

Jack has always had feline companions. Currently, he's the proud parent of two characterful cross-breeds that he adopted nearly ten years ago. The neighborhood outdoor cats also seem to love him, probably because he gives them toys and games when they visit his garden. With a lifetime of cat ownership behind him, Jack hopes to help offer insight and information to help cat owners make the right health and well-being choices for their cats.

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