While I know cat fountains are extremely useful and many people use them to encourage their cats to drink more water, I’ve been reluctant to try them for years due to several reasons. I’m not sure if these are common concerns for others or if those who use cat fountains can address whether my worries are valid. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments, regardless of whether you’ve tried a cat fountain yourself.
First, let’s discuss why cat fountains are useful. The main reason is that cats prefer running water and typically drink more from a running water cat fountain than from a still water bowl. Another reason is that cat fountains can hold a large amount of water, which is useful if you need to be away for long hours, take a short trip, or have multiple cats. There are also ceramic and aluminum cat fountains available for those concerned about bacteria and blackheads on cats’ chins.
Maintaining a regular water routine is essential for cats. While considering a cat fountain, I initially thought of the convenience it could offer. However, there are concerns that arise with its use, such as needing to purchase multiple fountains to ensure constant access to water without moving them around.
The initial expense of a cat fountain is not the main issue; it’s the inconvenience of having one less bowl available while cleaning. Cats are creatures of habit, and if they don’t find water in their usual spot, they might not drink until they desperately need to.
Another concern is whether cats would prefer the moving water of a fountain over still water in a bowl. If they become accustomed to the fountain, they might refuse to drink from a regular bowl, especially when the fountain is being cleaned or is not working. This could lead to them drinking less water, which defeats the purpose of having a fountain in the first place.
Hygiene is also a critical factor when considering a cat fountain. Filters need regular更换 and debris, such as fur, must be rinsed out daily to maintain cleanliness. Cats often clean their paws in their water bowls, which leads to fur and other debris accumulating. This nightly ritual of rinsing and refilling might be less convenient with a water fountain, potentially leading to a lapse in hygiene.
Currently, I mix water with kibble in bowls twice a day to ensure my cats stay hydrated. Additionally, I have two water bowls placed in cooler bathrooms with ceramic tiles to keep the water cool. If I want to encourage more water intake, strategically placing more bowls around the house has proven effective.
Placing multiple water bowls in areas where cats frequent can encourage them to drink more as they pass by. This approach seems more effective than relying on a single cat fountain or even two.
I would not cease providing water mixed with kibble, even with the introduction of a water fountain, to ensure cats receive a specific amount of hydration daily. Observing the frequency of water bowl usage is crucial. If usage decreases, consider adding more bowls in areas where cats spend more time. Your Turn: Thoughts on Cat Bowls VS Cat Fountains What are your thoughts on the debate between cat bowls and cat fountains? Have you tried fountains and found them effective? Do you share any of my reservations about them? For those who haven’t tried cat fountains, are you considering it? What’s stopping you from giving it a try? Is it the cost, hygiene, convenience, or something else? I’m eager to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
