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12 Best Cat Water Fountains  [Tested and Reviewed]

12 Best Cat Water Fountains [Tested and Reviewed]

Cat water fountains are automatic water dispensers for your feline friends. Not only are they suitable for cats that don’t drink enough, but they also come in handy when you’re away from home for an extended period of time and can’t give them fresh water. Various manufacturers make these fountains, such as Petsafe and Catit, and they all differ in terms of how easy they are to maintain and how much noise they make. This can make it challenging to choose the right product for your pet.

We've compared 12 bestselling Cat Water Fountains available online and put them to the test to recommend the best Cat Water Fountains for you.


We tested each product for the following:

  • Test 1: Ease of use
  • Test 2: Filter effectiveness
  • Test 3: Quietness

Which product ended up being the best of the best? We'll also tell you how to pick the best Cat Water Fountains on your own in our buying guide, so read on for more shopping tips.

Last updated 08/30/2023
Sheri Rydyznski
Expert
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

Sheri Rydyznski is a professional pet care service provider who operates Fetch.Sit.Stay. Cincinnati. LLC. When she’s not busy providing care for clients, she is an avid audiophile, curious traveler, entertaining raconteur and content creator for @fetch_sit_stay. She lives in the Greater Cincinnati, OH area with her husband and spirited tortie, Mischief.

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Jun Abe
Guide
Former pet store employee; Head of Pets at mybest
Jun Abe

Jun is an experienced professional in the pet supply industry, with a strong background in sales and small breed care. Having previously worked for a major pet store, Jun was in charge of serving pet owners and understanding their pet-related concerns, and within half a year, Jun was appointed head of small breeds. Currently, Jun serves as the head of pet food and pet supply articles at mybest. She strives to promote products that enhance the lives of pets and communicate on behalf of pets to pet owners with information that will make their days more comfortable and enjoyable.

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How We Tested the Products

Scroll to testing method
We gathered the 12 bestselling Cat Water Fountains and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Ease of use

    1
    Ease of use

    Water fountains require regular maintenance. It’s important that they are easy to use and clean to make sure your cat has fresh water to drink.We looked at the following criteria that impact how easy the product is to use. The more of these criteria they fulfilled, the better.Can the unit be disassembled?Does the shape of the top tray make it easy to clean?Is it designed in a way that makes the bottom of the tank easy to clean?Does it have a reasonable number of parts to be washed?Are the parts that can’t be washed separated from the parts that need to be washed?Is it lightweight?Is there a clear indication of how often the filter needs to be replaced?Is there an instruction manual that is easy to understand, with pictures or videos?

  2. Filter effectiveness

    2
    Filter effectiveness

    If you’re getting a water fountain for your cat, you want to make sure the water is always clean.* We put a fixed amount of cat food crumbs and fur into the circulating water and used a TDS meter** to measure how well it caught and filtered them out. We also used the eye test to see how easily it removed debris and evaluated these together as filter effectiveness. The details are explained below:What we put in the waterCat food crushed into a powder: one gram per literCat hair: 0.005 grams (a small clump) per literConditionsThe above volumes of cat food and hair were put into the basin of a running water fountain. We measured the impurities in the water in parts per million using a TDS meter. We checked it after five, 10, and 30 minutes. The lower the average of these three results was, the better the evaluation was.TDS reference valuesIdeal drinking water: 0 to 49ppmCarbon filtration, mountain springs, or aquifers: 50 to 199ppmMarginally acceptable: 200 to 300ppmAverage tap water in the US: 150 to 400ppm*The filters in water fountains are used to remove impurities. They aren’t meant to drastically purify water that wasn’t clean from the start.**TDS meters measure the density of conductive substances (impurities). However, they also measure things that are beneficial to the body, such as magnesium and calcium, so it doesn’t only measure contaminants.

  3. Quietness

    3
    Quietness

    Pets and owners who are sensitive to sound may be concerned about the noise level of the fountain, such as the sound of the motor or running water. Using a noise meter, we measured the noise level one centimeter (under a half inch) from the front and back of the unit and took the average of these results. Sound is measured in decibels, and lower numbers are quieter. In daily life, 45 decibels or fewer is generally considered quiet.

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.

Table of Contents

Do Cats Prefer Water Fountains?

Have you ever worried that your cat doesn’t drink enough water or drinks from places other than their bowl? Getting your cat a water fountain is said to help with these problems, but do cats really prefer to drink out of them?

Cats Are Generally Attracted to Running Water, so They May Drink More From a Fountain

Cats Are Generally Attracted to Running Water, so They May Drink More From a Fountain

It’s believed that the running water of a fountain captures a cat’s attention more effectively than stagnant water in a bowl. This means there are more opportunities for your cat to drink, thus increasing their water intake.


Of course, every cat is different, but if you’re worried that your pet isn’t getting enough to drink, getting them a water fountain is worth a shot.

Sheri Rydyznski
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

Cat water fountains are a good way for cats to drink more water. Domesticated cats are naturally attracted to fresh, flowing water sources, just like their ancestors in the wild.


The flowing water and soft splashing sound will help draw their attention and entice them to drink.

What Are the Drawbacks of a Cat Water Fountain?

While they’re convenient and appealing, cat water fountains also have drawbacks. We will outline these negative aspects below, so consider the pros and cons before deciding to buy one.

They Require Maintenance and Running Costs, but Provide Constant Clean Water

They Require Maintenance and Running Costs, but Provide Constant Clean Water

Cat water fountains aren’t without their drawbacks. Your electric bill will go up slightly, you’ll have to buy filters regularly, and it’s essential that you clean it once a week. However, it’s hard to put a price on providing clean, fresh water for your beloved pet.


When you put down a bowl of water, it won’t be long before dust and fur get in it and force you to change the water frequently. A water fountain can quickly flush out small debris and dispense clean water for your cat.


Additionally, you won’t have to change out the water as much. With an open bowl, it’s best to replace the water after every meal, but a fountain can be left alone for one to three days and still supply clean drinking water.

Jun Abe
Former pet store employee; Head of Pets at mybest
Jun Abe

Replacing the water every day is ideal, but when you go on short vacations, you can rest assured your pet will have clean water to drink. You have to set up several drinking stations, but there are many benefits for both cats and their owners.

How to Choose a Cat Water Fountain - Buying Guide

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Cat Water Fountains.
1

The Most Important Thing Is That It's Easy to Use and Clean

For owners, it’s essential that the fountain is easy to use, including being easy to clean. We explain why in this article, as well as present some products that fulfill these criteria.

Most Water Fountains Are Hard to Clean, so Choose One With Easier Maintenance

Most Water Fountains Are Hard to Clean, so Choose One With Easier Maintenance

While water fountains are convenient, they have many parts, which makes them a hassle to clean. However, maintenance is essential to ensure the water stays clean. Replacing the water daily is ideal, but doing it every three days is also fine. Your cat’s mouth touches the tray, so that should be washed every three days as well.


The main unit should be cleaned once a week, including small parts such as the impeller. The filter must be replaced every three weeks to one month, depending on the model and how often it’s used. All of these factors make water fountains a hassle to clean, so choose a product that makes things easier for you.

Cordless Pumps Mean You Don’t Have to Drag the Cord to the Sink

Cordless Pumps Mean You Don’t Have to Drag the Cord to the Sink

Cordless pumps are easy to move and wash. The inner design of the tank is simple, so they tend to be easy to clean. Alternatively, cleaning can still be a less difficult activity if it has a cord that is easily removable.


On the other hand, corded pumps that are mounted in the main unit are a hassle to install and remove. You have to drag the cord as you move it to wherever you want to clean it, which is a bit of a pain in the neck.

Fountains With Few Parts and Few Corners Inside Are Easy to Clean

Fountains With Few Parts and Few Corners Inside Are Easy to Clean

The fewer parts there are, the easier it is to clean. About three to four parts is a good number, so aim for a fountain in this range. Once you get past seven parts, there are a lot of small pieces and it makes cleaning a hassle.


As for the shape of the unit, flat and round ones can be easily cleaned with a kitchen sponge. However, those with sharp angles can store debris in the corners and make it harder to clean. We recommend looking for a fountain with as few pieces as possible and one that is smooth and round inside.

Sheri Rydyznski
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

Easy to clean is very important. Having fewer number of components helps maintain the integrity of the water fountain. 


Make sure you can get into corners and around nozzles to thoroughly clean the unit.

These Two Products Were the Easiest to Use and Clean

These Two Products Were the Easiest to Use and Clean

The cat water fountains by Homerun Pet and the one by NPET were especially easy to use and clean.


The Homerun Pet has a cordless pump and was easy to clean with a sponge. We also liked the removable tank, which lets you leave the parts you’re not going to wash behind. The NPET has a corded pump, but it’s easy to remove and doesn’t get in the way. It is simple, round, and has few parts, making it easy to clean.

2

Look For Products With Good Water Circulation

You hate to see food crumbs, dirt, or fur in your cat’s water. Even among water fountains, some units circulate water and remove dirt and debris better than others. Below are some points we looked at to ensure the water was kept clean.

Don’t Count on Water Fountain Filters to Drastically Improve Water Quality

Don’t Count on Water Fountain Filters to Drastically Improve Water Quality

The filters used in these fountains are usually made up of three layers.


  • High-density cotton (micro cotton): catches dirt and debris
  • Ion exchange resin: helps soften the water by removing heavy ions
  • Activated carbon: helps remove residual chlorine and chlorine smell

However, we found that while the filters differed slightly, none improved the quality of the water. It’s better to think of the filter as a tool to maintain the quality of the water. For example, they may struggle to remove minerals that have an impact on your cat’s health, and they can’t soften hard water.


If you're concerned about water quality you should start with the water you give your pet. Hard water is bad for your cat’s urinary tract, so if you live in an area with hard water, a home water softener or putting bottled water in their fountain may be the better alternative.

Sheri Rydyznski
Pet Care Service Provider
Sheri Rydyznski

You should not rely on your pet's water fountain to remove dangerous minerals. The question should be, "Would you say an in-home filtration system is an effective way to remove minerals from water?"


A water test for your home supply will offer clues as to what type of filtration system you need in your home. Options include a whole-house filtration system, a reverse osmosis system, individual under-sink installations and filtered water pitchers.

Fountains With a Round Basin and Good Circulation Filter Out Debris Quickly

Fountains With a Round Basin and Good Circulation Filter Out Debris Quickly

The shape and design of the fountain are important to make sure debris can be easily removed and your cat always has clean water to drink. A flat basin and strong water flow facilitate good circulation and prevent debris from accumulating in the water.


On the other hand, if the basin is deep and wide, it’s hard to get good circulation and can lead to debris building up in the dish. Pay close attention to the shape of the basin if you’re worried about dust, fur, and other debris. We reviewed this in the ranking, so please take a look.

3

Quiet Units Are Best for Bedrooms and Workplaces

Most water fountains run constantly, so there are few things to keep in mind when purchasing a unit to use in a quiet area to make sure it doesn’t disturb your daily life.

A Volume Around 40 Decibels Usually Won't Be Noticeable

A Volume Around 40 Decibels Usually Won't Be Noticeable

40 decibels is about the equivalent of a library or meeting room, so that level of noise is mostly unnoticeable even in a quiet room. If you plan to set up the fountain in a quiet space, such as your bedroom or home office, look for one around 40 decibels.


However, while the noise level may be the same, there are two different types of sounds: water sounds and mechanical sounds from the motor. These can be perceived differently depending on the person, so those sensitive to sound should make sure to check the review for each product in addition to the ranking.

Jun Abe
Former pet store employee; Head of Pets at mybest
Jun Abe

Your pet will also be less wary of a quiet product, so they will likely get used to it more quickly. If your cat is particularly skittish, it’s even more important to consider the noise level.

4

Any Material Is Fine, but Plastic Is Recommended if You Don’t Have a Preference

Most cat water fountains are made of plastic, stainless steel, or ceramic. We’ll explain the characteristics of each material below so you can choose the one that suits your preferences.

Plastic Is Light and Easy to Manage

Plastic Is Light and Easy to Manage

If you don’t have a preference, we suggest a plastic unit. They are light and sturdy, making them the easiest to carry and wash.


Despite being a bit heavier than plastic, stainless steel’s strength makes it a popular option. Barring something extreme, it doesn’t break or become deformed, so stainless steel fountains can be used for a long time.


While ceramic doesn’t deteriorate quickly and holds up for a long time, it’s heavy and you have to be careful not to break it. Water fountains require frequent maintenance, and ceramic can make that quite a hassle.

Jun Abe
Former pet store employee; Head of Pets at mybest
Jun Abe

We recommend stainless steel or ceramic for owners looking for a BPA-free product. Some plastic models are also BPA-free, but it depends on the product. Be sure to check the details carefully.

5

Check the Height of the Water Spout for Short-Legged Breeds and Kittens

If you’re going to buy a water fountain, you want to make sure it’s easy for your cat to use, especially if you have a small cat. We’ll go into detail on the height of water spouts below.

2 to 4 Inches Makes Drinking Easy for Your Cat

2 to 4 Inches Makes Drinking Easy for Your Cat

For kittens, short-legged cats, or breeds that tend to have shorter legs, such as Munchkins and Minuets (Napoleons), look for a product with a height of about two to four inches, depending on the size of your cat. You can always prop it up on something if it’s too short, but if it’s too tall, all you can do is buy a different one.


Even if your cat doesn’t have short legs, it will be hard for them to drink if it’s too high, and they may not drink enough or at all. Ideally, your cat should be able to drink in a natural pose without bending their neck too much.

6

If Your Cat Likes to Drink From the Faucet, a Downward-Flowing Type Is Recommended

Each cat has their own preference for how they like their water to flow. If your cat enjoys drinking from the faucet, they will likely enjoy a water fountain that dispenses water from above in a similar fashion.

Faucet Designs Stand Out Among the Rest

Faucet Designs Stand Out Among the Rest

A simple faucet design makes it easy to clean and manage, as there is only one spout. If you only have one cat, a design with a single spigot is sufficient. While water fountains come in many different designs, be wary of those with many spouts, as those are more things you need to clean. These may be an attractive option for those with several pets, as they can drink from many different places, but you have to make sure you keep up with the maintenance.

Adjustable Dispensers Allow You to Accommodate Your Cat’s Preferences

Adjustable Dispensers Allow You to Accommodate Your Cat’s Preferences

Cats have a wide range of preferences when it comes to water flow. If you’re worried about whether your cat with use it or not, you can choose a product that allows you to change how the water flows. If you can change the flow of the water with attachments, it’s easier to adjust to how your cat likes it. Be sure to check what’s included with the product if you want to adjust how the water comes out.

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12 Best Cat Water Fountains Ranking

Here are the best Cat Water Fountains we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
Recommended
Price Performance
Sort
Filter
For faucet drinkers
For home alone cats
Dishwasher-safe
For small rooms
For short-legged cats
Cat-proof
Products
Image
mybest Score
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
Ranking spec
Details
Ease of use
Filter effectiveness
Quietness
Capacity
Length
Width
Height
Height of water spout
Weight
Material
Number of included filters
Shape of water reservoir
Water dispenser type
Dishwasher-safe
Disassembly
Water level indicator
1

Homerun Pet

Cat Water Fountain

Homerun Pet Cat Water Fountain 1
4.83

$42.99

Mid

mybest's Top Choice! Quiet, Easy to Wash and Keeps Water Clean

5.00
4.50
4.97

68 fl. oz.

7.5 in.

7.5 in.

5.8 in.

5.5 in.

2.3 lbs.

BPA-free plastic

1

Flat

Fountain

unknown

(no measurement markings)

2

NPET

Cat Water Fountain

NPET Cat Water Fountain 1
4.71

$21.31

Low Mid

Simple Design That's Easy to Clean and Recommended for Faucet-Loving Cats

4.72
4.57
4.90

50 fl. oz.

6.3 in.

6.3 in.

7 in.

5.9 in.

17 oz.

Plastic

1

Flat

Stream or fountain

unknown

(no measurement markings)

3

Tomxcute

Cat Water Fountain

Tomxcute  Cat Water Fountain 1
4.41

$46.99

Mid

The Stainless Steel Bucket-Like Tank Is Easy to Clean

4.36
4.43
4.50

108 fl. oz.

8.85 in.

8.85 in.

7 in.

4.1 in.

29 oz.

Stainless steel

3

Flat

Stream

4

uahpet

ZERO Wireless Cat Water Fountain

uahpet ZERO Wireless Cat Water Fountain 1
4.26

$29.59

Low Mid

Quiet, Battery-Operated Fountain With a Good Filter

4.11
4.29
4.68

67 fl. oz.

6.3 in.

7 in.

8.2 in.

5.7 in.

32 oz.

Antibacterial plastic

1

Flat

Stream

unknown

unknown

unknown(measurement markings in liters)

5

Premier Pet

Automatic Water Fountain

Premier Pet Automatic Water Fountain 1
4.10

$19.98

Low Mid

The Pump Is a Hassle to Remove, but the Filtration Is Superb

3.86
4.43
4.32

60 fl. oz.

6.3 in.

6.3 in.

6.8 in.

4.5 in.

1.32 lb

BPA-free plastic

1

Flat

Stream and fountain

6

Catit

Senses 2.0 Flower Fountain

Catit Senses 2.0 Flower Fountain 1
3.79

$22.15

Low Mid

Attractive Design but It Has Many Small Parts to Clean

3.79
3.82
3.75

100 fl. oz.

8.3 in.

8.3 in.

7.3 in.

5.7 in.

1.32 lbs.

BPA-free plastic

1

Convex

Gentle, bubbling, or stream

unknown

unknown

unknown(no measurement markings)

7

PetSafe

Drinkwell Stainless Multi-Pet Fountain

PetSafe Drinkwell Stainless Multi-Pet Fountain 1
3.78

$74.95

High Mid

Quiet but Has Many Parts

3.54
3.68
4.97

128 fl. oz.

12.4 in.

12.4 in.

9.4 in.

3.5 in.

68 oz.

Stainless steel

1

Flat

Stream

8

Petlibro

Capsule Water Fountain

Petlibro Capsule Water Fountain 1
3.76

$29.99

Low Mid

Very Quiet for a Faucet Type but the Cord Gets in the Way

3.86
3.22
5.00

71 fl. oz.

8.9 in.

5.6 in.

5.5 in.

5.5 in.

31 oz.

BPA-free plastic

4

Flat

Stream or fountain

unknown

9

Petsafe

Drinkwell Platinum

Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum 1
3.45

$54.95

High Mid

Runs Quietly but Needs to Be Disassembled to Clean

3.15
3.57
4.57

168 fl. oz.

10.5 in.

15.75 in.

10 in.

2.3 in.

64 oz.

BPA-free plastic

1

Flat

Stream

(no measurement markings)

10

iPettie

Tritone Ceramic Drinking Fountain

iPettie Tritone Ceramic Drinking Fountain 1
3.43

$59.99

High Mid

Flat, Easy-to-Clean Surfaces, but You Need to Unplug the Cord

3.00
3.82
5.00

71 fl. oz.

10.6 in.

10.6 in.

8.2 in.

3.3 in.

111 oz.

Ceramic

1

Flat

Stream and fountain

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice Cat Water Fountains
No.1 in Ease of use

Homerun PetCat Water Fountain

mybest Score
4.83
Ease of use
5.00
Filter effectiveness
4.50
Quietness
4.97
View on Amazon
Cat Water Fountain 1
Lowest price
$42.99
Mid
Lowest price
$42.99
Mid
Capacity68 fl. oz.
MaterialBPA-free plastic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Fountain
Dishwasher-safe
unknown

mybest's Top Choice! Quiet, Easy to Wash and Keeps Water Clean

Homerun Pet is a pet supply company founded by animal-loving R&D engineers. This water fountain boasts an ergonomically-designed drinking tray with smooth edges. Removing the cordless pump makes the tank easy to clean. The drinking surface is flat and easy to remove and can be wiped with a sponge. The tank can also be removed, so you don’t have to drag a cord around when it’s time to clean it.


The filter successfully caught food crumbs and hair and reduced contaminants by about half in our test. The water didn’t appear murky or dirty, either. The shallow drinking basin has sloped edges, making it easy to flush out crumbs and dirt. This product is excellent at providing consistently clean water for your cat.


It produces sounds at about 40 decibels, making it exceptionally quiet. The sounds of the motor and running water can hardly be heard, even near the fountain. This means it can be placed anywhere, including your bedroom or office. Because it's quiet, easy to clean, and keeps water fresh, mybest highly recommends this water fountain!

Length7.5 in.
Width7.5 in.
Height5.8 in.
Height of water spout5.5 in.
Weight2.3 lbs.
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator(no measurement markings)
View all
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No.2
No.1 in Filter effectiveness

NPETCat Water Fountain

mybest Score
4.71
Ease of use
4.72
Filter effectiveness
4.57
Quietness
4.90
Lowest price
$21.31
Low Mid
Capacity50 fl. oz.
MaterialPlastic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream or fountain
Dishwasher-safe
unknown

Simple Design That's Easy to Clean and Recommended for Faucet-Loving Cats

NPET's fountain is unique for its simple design and faucet-like spout, and the fact that you can easily see inside the transparent vessel. Because it has few parts, a simple design, and smooth edges, it’s extremely easy to clean. The pump does have a cord, but it doesn’t need to pass through the main unit and is easy to attach and remove. The drinking basin is also removable, making daily maintenance simple.


The filter caught crumbs and hair in the water, dispensing clean water from its spout. When measured, it reduced impurities by about half, which is relatively good by water fountain standards. Despite having a deep basin, the water flows well enough to cleanly remove crumbs and hair. It produces a relaxing sound of trickling water at about 42 decibels, which is quiet enough not to be distracting. We recommend giving this product a try if your cat likes drinking from the faucet or shows interest in the kitchen sink.

Length6.3 in.
Width6.3 in.
Height7 in.
Height of water spout5.9 in.
Weight17 oz.
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator(no measurement markings)
View all
No.3

Tomxcute Cat Water Fountain

mybest Score
4.41
Ease of use
4.36
Filter effectiveness
4.43
Quietness
4.50
Lowest price
$46.99
Mid
Capacity108 fl. oz.
MaterialStainless steel
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream
Dishwasher-safe

The Stainless Steel Bucket-Like Tank Is Easy to Clean

Tomxcute's water fountain holds 108 ounces of water (over three liters) and sports a realistic faucet. The pump is attached to the bottom of the drinking tray, so when that is removed, the tank is essentially a bucket and very easy to clean. While the tray has some small parts that are hard to clean, it’s balanced out by having very few parts.


The filter is very effective, catching debris and reducing impurities by about a third. While this isn’t the best result numerically, the water was clean and clear by the eye test. It has good water flow, and while it takes some time to remove crumbs, fur was quickly sucked down the drain and through the filter, leaving the water clean in the end. Overall, we feel that it can maintain clean drinking water for your cat.


At 47 decibels, it doesn’t make a loud noise, but it is somewhat noticeable. The trickling sound of water is relaxing, so it would be well suited for the living room. A faucet-loving feline would love this product, as it looks like the real thing. Also, it’s made from tough stainless steel, so those concerned about materials may want to take a look at this product.

Length8.85 in.
Width8.85 in.
Height7 in.
Height of water spout4.1 in.
Weight29 oz.
Number of included filters3
Disassembly
Water level indicator
View all
No.4

uahpetZERO Wireless Cat Water Fountain

mybest Score
4.26
Ease of use
4.11
Filter effectiveness
4.29
Quietness
4.68
Lowest price
$29.59
Low Mid
Capacity67 fl. oz.
MaterialAntibacterial plastic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream
Dishwasher-safe
unknown

Quiet, Battery-Operated Fountain With a Good Filter

Uahpet claims to design and manufacture pet supplies based on animal science and data. This fountain comes with a battery installed, allowing you to place it anywhere as long as it’s charged. The battery must be removed when taking the drinking basin out, and it’s a little difficult to get the basin back into the tank. However, it has a simple design and not very many parts, so it is easy to clean.


The filter effectively caught crumbs and hair from the water, making it appear clean and clear. Looking at the numbers, it filtered out over half of the impurities, which is impressive compared to the other products we tested. However, while hair was removed given enough time, heavier debris, like food crumbs, settled around the drain. It’s important to check this daily and clean it out as needed.


The sound from this product was recorded at 44 decibels. While you can hear the faint sound of the motor if you press your ear against it, you can usually only hear the calm sound of running water, so you can place it anywhere.

Length6.3 in.
Width7 in.
Height8.2 in.
Height of water spout5.7 in.
Weight32 oz.
Number of included filters1
Disassemblyunknown
Water level indicatorunknown(measurement markings in liters)
View all
No.5

Premier PetAutomatic Water Fountain

mybest Score
4.10
Ease of use
3.86
Filter effectiveness
4.43
Quietness
4.32
Lowest price
$19.98
Low Mid
Capacity60 fl. oz.
MaterialBPA-free plastic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream and fountain
Dishwasher-safe

The Pump Is a Hassle to Remove, but the Filtration Is Superb

Premier Pet’s mission is to make simple pet products. Aside from the motor, the entire fountain is BPA-free and is notable for its compact size and light weight. Unfortunately, the pump is not wireless and is a bit of a hassle to install and remove. On the plus side, there are only four parts in total, and the main unit has a simple design and shape.


After flushing out the food crumbs and hair, it dispensed clear water with a third of the impurities removed. While the number isn’t the best among the ones we tested, it has good circulation and water flow, which help remove the contaminants themselves. We recorded the noise level at 50 decibels, which isn’t particularly loud, but the low drone of the motor could be cause for concern. It shouldn’t be a problem somewhere like the living room, but it may not be suited for quiet rooms.

Length6.3 in.
Width6.3 in.
Height6.8 in.
Height of water spout4.5 in.
Weight1.32 lb
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator
View all
No.6

CatitSenses 2.0 Flower Fountain

mybest Score
3.79
Ease of use
3.79
Filter effectiveness
3.82
Quietness
3.75
Lowest price
$22.15
Low Mid
Capacity100 fl. oz.
MaterialBPA-free plastic
Shape of water reservoir
Convex
Water dispenser type
Gentle, bubbling, or stream
Dishwasher-safe
unknown

Attractive Design but It Has Many Small Parts to Clean

Catit, a specialty brand that makes products just for cats, designed this product to look like water is flowing from a flower. It can also be converted to a spring-type fountain by removing the flower parts. While it has a corded pump, the cord is hidden beneath a cover on the back of the unit and can easily be removed by taking this off. However, while the tank is flat and easy to clean, the flower-shaped fountain has a lot of nooks and crannies that need to be cleaned thoroughly.


It dispensed clean water even after the contaminants were added, but we didn’t see any improvement in purity on a numerical level. There are also some areas the water doesn’t reach, so if crumbs or fur fall in those places, they can get stuck there. We recommend checking the drinking area every day to make sure it stays clean.

The sound emitted by this fountain was measured at 57 decibels. While the water does make some noise, we didn’t hear any unpleasant motor noises. You can hear the sound of running water in a quiet room, so people who are concerned about that might want to avoid this product.

Length8.3 in.
Width8.3 in.
Height7.3 in.
Height of water spout5.7 in.
Weight1.32 lbs.
Number of included filters1
Disassemblyunknown
Water level indicatorunknown(no measurement markings)
View all
No.7

PetSafeDrinkwell Stainless Multi-Pet Fountain

mybest Score
3.78
Ease of use
3.54
Filter effectiveness
3.68
Quietness
4.97
Lowest price
$74.95
High Mid
Capacity128 fl. oz.
MaterialStainless steel
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream
Dishwasher-safe

Quiet but Has Many Parts

This water fountain is made from stainless steel and pets can drink from any angle around it. The bowl is relatively large, so dogs can use it as well. The pump is attached with a suction cup, which can be removed to reveal a flat bottom that is easy to clean. However, it has a total of nine parts, and since your pets drink directly from the tank, you have to disassemble and clean the entire thing.


The filtration was relatively good, as it removed about half of the impurities and dispensed clean water even after we added crumbs and hair to it. However, debris settled around the rim and stayed there, possibly due to the depth of the basin, so it must be checked daily. Coming in at 41 decibels, it is extremely quiet. Even if you get close to the unit and try to listen, you can only hear a faint sound of trickling water. We didn’t notice any mechanical sounds from the motor, so we think this fountain could be used in any room.

Length12.4 in.
Width12.4 in.
Height9.4 in.
Height of water spout3.5 in.
Weight68 oz.
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator
View all
No.8
No.1 in Quietness

PetlibroCapsule Water Fountain

mybest Score
3.76
Ease of use
3.86
Filter effectiveness
3.22
Quietness
5.00
Lowest price
$29.99
Low Mid
Capacity71 fl. oz.
MaterialBPA-free plastic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream or fountain
Dishwasher-safe
unknown

Very Quiet for a Faucet Type but the Cord Gets in the Way

Petlibro focuses on making products that are easy for your pet to use. This water fountain comes with attachments that let you change the way the water comes out, either as a spring or as a fountain. You can adjust it to your cat’s liking. While the tank and drinking basin are round and easy to clean, it has a long cord that must pass through the back of the unit. This makes it hard to remove and forces you to drag the cord with you when you go to wash it. When you think about doing this once a week, it starts to sound like a hassle.


The water did come out clean, but the measurements left a lot to be desired. Additionally, the water doesn’t flow very strongly and the basin is level, which caused some residual debris even long after the test was complete. However, it was extremely quiet while running, registering at just 39 decibels. The water flows gently, so it doesn’t make much noise even when using the faucet attachment.

Length8.9 in.
Width5.6 in.
Height5.5 in.
Height of water spout5.5 in.
Weight31 oz.
Number of included filters4
Disassembly
Water level indicator
View all
No.9

PetsafeDrinkwell Platinum

mybest Score
3.45
Ease of use
3.15
Filter effectiveness
3.57
Quietness
4.57
Lowest price
$54.95
High Mid
Capacity168 fl. oz.
MaterialBPA-free plastic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream
Dishwasher-safe

Runs Quietly but Needs to Be Disassembled to Clean

The Drinkwell Platinum is produced by Petsafe, a company that specializes in pet supplies. It’s notable for its large 169-ounce (five-liter) tank. It’s hard to clean, as it has many parts, and the top needs to be removed to clean the drinking basin. Even removing a small amount of debris from the basin takes a lot of time and effort.


Despite dispensing clean water during the test, the filter only removed about a third of the impurities when measured. We were also concerned about debris settling in the basin due to its size and depth. The unit produced sounds at about 46 decibels. While you can hear a faint sound of water, it’s relaxing and not unpleasant. If you get close to it, you can hear a faint sound from the motor, but it won’t be noticeable most of the time.

Length10.5 in.
Width15.75 in.
Height10 in.
Height of water spout2.3 in.
Weight64 oz.
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator(no measurement markings)
View all
Lowest price
$59.99
High Mid
Capacity71 fl. oz.
MaterialCeramic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Stream and fountain
Dishwasher-safe

Flat, Easy-to-Clean Surfaces, but You Need to Unplug the Cord

The Tritone Ceramic Drink Fountain is a product by iPettie, a company that manufactures and sells water fountains and automatic food dispensers. This fountain is white and made of ceramic, so it can easily blend in with the interior of your house. The basin and bowl are flat and round, making them easy to clean. However, because the pump isn’t cordless, you have to unplug it every time you want to clean it. Unplugging it every time and carrying the cord with you to wash it is a hassle, so that is one thing we were concerned about.


The filter only removed about a third of the impurities, so it can’t really compare to the top products. While fur was flushed out given enough time, crumbs settled at the bottom in some places. It would be best to check the water every day to make sure it’s clean. That being said, the unit only produces sounds at 40 decibels, making it exceptionally quiet. It can be placed in the bedroom or a home office without worry.

Length10.6 in.
Width10.6 in.
Height8.2 in.
Height of water spout3.3 in.
Weight111 oz.
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator
View all
No.11

Petsafe Drinkwell Seascape

mybest Score
3.28
Ease of use
3.15
Filter effectiveness
3.00
Quietness
4.97
Lowest price
$89.95
High
Capacity70 fl. oz.
MaterialCeramic
Shape of water reservoir
Flat
Water dispenser type
Fountain
Dishwasher-safe

Unplugging This Ceramic Fountain Is a Hassle

The Drinkwell Seascape sold by Petsafe, a pet supply company established in 1998, is a ceramic water fountain that can hold 70 ounces, or two liters, of water, so it can be used by small to medium-sized dogs, too. It’s uneven and has a lot of parts, causing debris to get stuck and making it hard to wash out. On top of that, it has a long cord that has to be removed whenever you clean it, which can be a real hassle when you have to do it every week.


It dispensed clean water during the filtration test, but the level of impurities was about the same as dirty water when measured. While this went down over time, the crumbs and cat hair remained in the water even after a long time. However, this fountain can be placed in any room, as it only registered a very quiet 40 decibels, and that left a good impression on us.

Length8 in.
Width9.2 in.
Height5 in.
Height of water spout3.1 in.
Weight105 oz.
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator
View all
No.12

Pioneer PetSwan Pet Drinking Fountain

mybest Score
3.26
Ease of use
3.32
Filter effectiveness
3.22
Quietness
3.18
Lowest price
$49.62
Mid
Capacity80 fl. oz.
MaterialBPA-free plastic
Shape of water reservoir
Concave
Water dispenser type
Stream
Dishwasher-safe

Loud and Doesn’t Flush Debris Well

Pioneer Pet was established by cat behavior researcher and feline lover Betsy Lipscomb. This drinking fountain is designed to look like a swan, and dispenses water from above. While there aren’t many parts, the bottom is uneven and has many nooks and crannies, making it hard to wash. The swan head spout also has a unique shape and is hard to clean, and it was a hassle to get to all the small spaces. On top of that, it has a corded pump that needs to pass through the unit, which gets in the way.


The water did not appear dirty after the test, but the measurement showed that only about a third of the impurities were filtered out. Not only that, but due to the low water pressure and deep basin, most of the debris settled at the bottom. Our biggest concern was the noise level, as the water is poured from a considerable height and produces sounds around 61 decibels, loud enough to be noticeable in a quiet room. We don’t recommend using it in your bedroom, home office, or other quiet spaces.

Length12 in.
Width8.75 in.
Height9.75 in.
Height of water spout3.0 in.
Weight19 oz.
Number of included filters1
Disassembly
Water level indicator
View all

How We Tested the Cat Water Fountains

Cat Water Fountains Evaluation

We tested out cat water fountains from Amazon, Walmart, Target, and other retailers to find out which are the best. Here at mybest, we’re looking for fountains that are easy to use and clean, remove as many impurities from the water as possible, and don’t make a lot of noise.


We tested the products in the following three areas to help you choose the right one for you:


  • Is it easy to use?
  • How well does the filter work?
  • How loud is it?

Products we tested

  1. CatitSenses 2.0 Flower Fountain
  2. Homerun PetCat Water Fountain
  3. NPETCat Water Fountain
  4. PetSafeDrinkwell Stainless Multi-Pet Fountain
  5. PetlibroCapsule Water Fountain
  6. PetsafeDrinkwell Platinum
  7. Petsafe Drinkwell Seascape
  8. Pioneer PetSwan Pet Drinking Fountain
  9. Premier PetAutomatic Water Fountain
  10. Tomxcute Cat Water Fountain
  11. iPettieTritone Ceramic Drinking Fountain
  12. uahpetZERO Wireless Cat Water Fountain
1

Ease of use

Ease of use

Water fountains require regular maintenance. It’s important that they are easy to use and clean to make sure your cat has fresh water to drink.


We looked at the following criteria that impact how easy the product is to use. The more of these criteria they fulfilled, the better.


  • Can the unit be disassembled?
  • Does the shape of the top tray make it easy to clean?
  • Is it designed in a way that makes the bottom of the tank easy to clean?
  • Does it have a reasonable number of parts to be washed?
  • Are the parts that can’t be washed separated from the parts that need to be washed?
  • Is it lightweight?
  • Is there a clear indication of how often the filter needs to be replaced?
  • Is there an instruction manual that is easy to understand, with pictures or videos?
2

Filter effectiveness

Filter effectiveness

If you’re getting a water fountain for your cat, you want to make sure the water is always clean.* We put a fixed amount of cat food crumbs and fur into the circulating water and used a TDS meter** to measure how well it caught and filtered them out. We also used the eye test to see how easily it removed debris and evaluated these together as filter effectiveness. The details are explained below:


What we put in the water

  • Cat food crushed into a powder: one gram per liter
  • Cat hair: 0.005 grams (a small clump) per liter

Conditions

  • The above volumes of cat food and hair were put into the basin of a running water fountain. We measured the impurities in the water in parts per million using a TDS meter. We checked it after five, 10, and 30 minutes. The lower the average of these three results was, the better the evaluation was.

TDS reference values

  • Ideal drinking water: 0 to 49ppm
  • Carbon filtration, mountain springs, or aquifers: 50 to 199ppm
  • Marginally acceptable: 200 to 300ppm
  • Average tap water in the US: 150 to 400ppm

*The filters in water fountains are used to remove impurities. They aren’t meant to drastically purify water that wasn’t clean from the start.


**TDS meters measure the density of conductive substances
(impurities). However, they also measure things that are beneficial to
the body, such as magnesium and calcium, so it doesn’t only measure
contaminants.

3

Quietness

Quietness

Pets and owners who are sensitive to sound may be concerned about the noise level of the fountain, such as the sound of the motor or running water. Using a noise meter, we measured the noise level one centimeter (under a half inch) from the front and back of the unit and took the average of these results. Sound is measured in decibels, and lower numbers are quieter. In daily life, 45 decibels or fewer is generally considered quiet.

How Can I Get My Cat to Drink More Water?

Cats don't drink much water in the first place, but too little water intake can increase their risk of illness. Here are some tips on making sure your cat drinks plenty of water.

Warm Water Is Best

Warm Water Is Best

Cats tend to prefer drinking water that's closer to their own body temperature. As hunters in the wild, cats catch and eat prey on the spot. These natural instincts lead them to associate warm water with these fresh meals.


So you may find success in warming their water to about 98.6 degrees. If you've been concerned that your cat's water intake is too low, try using warm water. That said, cats have their individual preferences, so it's a good idea to try a variety of temperatures until you discover what your cat likes best.

Install Multiple Drinking Spots

Install Multiple Drinking Spots

The ideal set-up allows your cat to drink as much as they want, whenever and wherever they want. Aim to have two or more places where your cat can get water.


Placing water fountains in areas where your cat spends a lot of time makes it more likely that they'll notice the water, which in turn can increase their water intake.

Top 5 Cat Water Fountains

No. 1: Homerun PetCat Water Fountain

No. 2: NPETCat Water Fountain

No. 3: Tomxcute Cat Water Fountain

No. 4: uahpetZERO Wireless Cat Water Fountain

No. 5: Premier PetAutomatic Water Fountain

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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  3. Cat Supplies
  4. 12 Best Cat Water Fountains [Tested and Reviewed]

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