Bringing your cat to the veterinarian for regular check-ups is just one part of his or her care—ultimately, keeping your feline healthy starts at home. Aside from helping them stay active and nourished with a healthy diet, you should also ensure they are staying hydrated throughout the day.
On average, cats should drink between 8 to 16 ounces of water per day, says Teri Byrd, DVM. Unfortunately, they can be picky about the containers you put that water in, which makes them less likely to drink. Stainless steel, ceramic, or glass water dishes are preferred, says Dr. Byrd—but they're even better if they have a running water or a fountain function. "Cats generally enjoy running water if it doesn't scare them, so gently moving fountains are great for cats," says Dr. Byrd.
We've gathered the best running water bowls and fountains on the market so your cats can hit their daily intake and enjoy it, too.
Shop the Best Cat Running Water Bowls and Fountains
- Veken Automatic Cat Water Fountain
- Pioneer Pet Swan Cat Drinking Fountain
- PetSafe Creekside Ceramic Pet Fountain
- Tomxcute Cat Water Fountain
- PetSafe Seaside Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
- Frisco Ceramic Dog and Cat Fountain
- PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless Steel Multi-Pet Dog and Cat Water Fountain
- Pawsmark Anti-Splash Slow Feeder Dispenser Car Bowl
- PetSafe Drinkwell Ceramic Avalon Pet Fountain
- K&H Pet Products Cat Clean Flow With Reservoir
Veken Automatic Cat Water Fountain
Cats will enjoy this water fountain which has two modes: flower waterfall (pictured here) and a gentle fountain (which is calmer). With a 95-ounce capacity, the quiet water dispenser won't scare felines as they drink, and its triple-filtration system, with an activated carbon layer, ion exchange resin, and non-woven fabric, ensures water is always fresh.
Pioneer Pet Swan Cat Drinking Fountain
This fountain boasts a beautiful swan design and an 80-ounce water capacity. It can be powered via USB or a wall plug.
PetSafe Creekside Ceramic Pet Fountain
The whisper-quiet design of this ceramic fountain will help keep cats serene as they sip. Up to 60 ounces of water fit in this 360-degree fountain vessel, which is also scratch resistant.
Tomxcute Cat Water Fountain
A double filtration system, activated carbon filter, and pre-filter sponge ensures this steel vessel's water stays cold, crisp, and fresh. It holds 108 ounces, making it ideal for households with several pets.
PetSafe Seaside Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
Plastic bowls can cause pet acne, which is why the makers of this fountain opted for rust-resistant stainless steel. The model holds 60 ounces of water and has a pump and two filters to keep water flowing and free of pet hair.
Frisco Ceramic Dog and Cat Fountain
This ceramic water bowl just might match the dishes you have in your cabinets—which means it will look cohesive in your kitchen (if that's where your cat's water station is set up!). It holds up to 64 ounces of constantly-circulated water.
PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless Steel Multi-Pet Dog and Cat Water Fountain
This stainless steel pet fountain is perfect for families with multiple cats. It holds up to 1 gallon of water and can be customized with its five interchangeable spout rings to make it easy for several cats to drink at once.
Pawsmark Anti-Splash Slow Feeder Dispenser Car Bowl
Unlike many water bowls and fountains, this option is resistant to spills thanks to its floating plate design. The 40-ounce bowl continues to fill as they drink—so if they come back for more, it will be there.
PetSafe Drinkwell Ceramic Avalon Pet Fountain
With two free-falling water streams and a 70-ounce capacity, your cat will be able to hydrate easily via this ceramic fountain. It also comes with an activated carbon filter to rid the water of odors and impurities.
K&H Pet Products Cat Clean Flow With Reservoir
This bowl has a silent flow and a charcoal filter that cleans water up to 130 times per hour to keep it fresh for your cat. The bowl holds up to 80 ounces; the reservoir holds up to 90 ounces.