Your cat ignores the water bowl. Then drinks from the bathroom faucet. Sound familiar?
Cats can be picky about water. Very picky. A bowl that sat out all day might as well not exist to some of them.
My cat, Pandora, is one of those cats. So when Selene Pets released their new Kitty Fountain, I wanted to see if she would actually use it.
She did. Here is what I noticed, what I liked, and what you should know before you buy one.
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Why Are Cats Such Picky Drinkers?
Cats evolved from desert animals. Their ancestors got most of their water from their prey, not from drinking. That is part of why many cats do not drink much on their own.
A lot of cats also seem to prefer moving water. You have probably seen it. The cat that waits by the sink. The cat that dips a paw in the glass on your nightstand.
Cats can also be fussy about where the bowl sits, what it is made of, and whether their whiskers touch the sides. Small things matter to them.
Want to know how much your cat should be drinking? I break it down in How Much Water Should My Cat Drink Every Day?
What’s Really in Your Cat’s Water Bowl?
Run your finger along the inside of your cat’s bowl. Feel a slippery coating? That is likely biofilm.
Biofilm is a slimy layer that forms when bacteria stick to a wet surface. Saliva, food bits, and fur all add to it. Topping off the bowl instead of washing it gives it more time to build up.
Some cats may notice the smell or taste before you ever see the slime. That alone can turn a picky cat away from the bowl.
Why I Like Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is smooth, durable, and does not soak anything up. Plastic scratches over time, and those scratches are harder to clean well.
To be clear, stainless steel is not bacteria-proof. Biofilm can form on any wet surface. But steel is easier to wash and easier to keep clean, and that is what matters.
I covered biofilm in more detail in my dog water fountain review if you want the full rundown.
My Experience With the Selene Kitty Fountain
For transparency, Selene Pets gifted me the Kitty Fountain to try. The opinions here are my own.
I went with the 2.2-liter size, which Selene recommends for one small or average-size cat. That fit our house perfectly since Pandora is our only cat.
Pandora is not a fan of new things, so I expected her to stare at it for a few days. Instead, she surprised me. The first time she saw the fountain, she walked right up to it, curious, but didn’t drink. I hung around nearby for a few hours (trying not to hover), and eventually she came back on her own and took a few licks.
She ended up loving it. Now she likes to bat at the water as it bubbles out of the fountain.
A few things stood out to me right away:
- Setup was quick. Filter in, water in, turn it on.
- It is quiet. Selene lists the pump at about 30 decibels. Pandora did not seem bothered by it at all.
- Cleaning is simple. The stainless steel parts come apart and go in the dishwasher.
Pandora checking out the fountain.
Kitty Fountain Features
The wireless option is nice if you want the fountain somewhere without an outlet nearby. It can also stay plugged in, so you do not have to remember to charge it.
Save on the Selene Kitty Fountain
Ready to try it with your cat? Shop the Kitty Fountain through this link and use code DRGINASELENE25 to save 25%.
How to Introduce Your Cat to a Water Fountain
Some cats walk right up to a fountain. Others act like it is out to get them. Go slow.
- Put the fountain near your cat’s current water bowl. Not near the litter box or food bowl if you can help it.
- Leave it turned off for a day so your cat can sniff it.
- Turn it on and let your cat check it out on their own time.
- Keep the old bowl out until you see your cat drinking from the fountain regularly.
- Use treats or praise near the fountain if your cat seems unsure. Never push their face toward the water.
- Once your cat is using it every day, you can pick up the old bowl.
Tip: A lot of cats like having more than one water spot. You can keep a second bowl in another room even after they switch.
What to Consider Before You Buy
A fountain is a nice upgrade. But it is not a magic bowl. Here is what to keep in mind:
Filters are an ongoing cost. You will need a new one about every month.
It still needs cleaning. Plan on washing it about once a week, sooner if you see slime or buildup.
Check it every day. Make sure the water level is good and the pump is running.
Wireless models need charging. Or just keep it plugged in.
Some cats need time. Do not give up after one day.
Filtered is not sterile. The filter catches hair and debris. It does not replace cleaning.
A fountain cannot treat a medical problem. If your cat suddenly drinks a lot more or a lot less, call your vet. Changes in thirst can be an early sign of kidney disease, diabetes, or a urinary problem.
Final Thoughts on the Selene Kitty Fountain
Pandora gave it her approval, and that is not easy to get. The stainless steel, quiet pump, and easy cleanup make it a solid pick for cat owners who want fresh, moving water in the house.
Like any fountain, it still needs regular cleaning and filter changes. But if your cat is a picky drinker, I definitely believe it’s worth a try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a fountain make my cat drink more water?
Some cats drink more from moving water, but every cat is different. Watch your cat’s habits and talk to your vet about any big change.
What size Kitty Fountain should I get?
The 2.2L works well for one small or average-size cat. The 4L is better for larger cats or homes with more than one cat.
How often should I clean a cat water fountain?
About once a week, or sooner if you notice slime, odor, or debris. Change the filter about once a month.
Can a water fountain prevent kidney disease or UTIs in cats?
No. Good hydration is important for cats, but a fountain cannot prevent or treat kidney disease or urinary problems. Those need a vet exam.
Is tap water okay to use?
Yes, as long as it is safe for people to drink. Very hard water may leave mineral buildup, so you may need to clean more often.
Sources:
Raspa et al. (2023): Pet Feeding Habits and the Microbiological Contamination of Dog Food Bowls
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10701922/
Selene Kitty Fountain product page
https://selenepets.com/products/the-kitty-fountain
Dr. Georgina Ushi is a veterinarian and freelance medical writer. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009. Dr. Ushi has worked for 16 years in the Tampa Bay area, providing compassionate care to dogs, cats, and exotic pets.
In addition to her clinical work, she serves as an adjunct instructor at Florida A&M University, teaching in the veterinary technology program. Dr. Ushi also consults for pet well-being brands and writes evidence-based pet health content for Pet Health Love, as well as for PetMD. She is passionate about educating and empowering pet owners through clear, trustworthy information.
Her professional interests include emergency medicine, dermatology, pet telehealth, nutrition, and wildlife medicine.
