A water fountain keeps your cat's water moving, but it only stays fresh if you look after it. This guide covers what to do each day, how to approach cleaning and filter changes, and where to put the fountain, using advice from UK cat charities.
Why fresh, moving water matters
Cats Protection says cats should have access to a fresh, clean supply of water at all times, and that many cats like the movement and freshness of flowing water, which is why some try to drink from the tap. International Cat Care also lists pet water fountains among the running water sources worth trying, as some cats like to drink from moving water.
Every cat is different, so a fountain won't suit them all. If you're worried your cat is drinking too much or too little, International Cat Care's advice is to contact your veterinary team.
Every day: check the level and top up
- Look at the water level. On our fountain, the water-level window shows when it's time to top up.
- Top up with fresh water. International Cat Care's guide to encouraging your cat to drink says to keep a fountain topped up with fresh water, as some become noisy when running low.
- Glance at the water. The same guide says water should always be fresh: avoid water that's mouldy, stale or contaminated, for example by food, litter or cleaning products.
How often to clean the fountain and change the filter
There isn't one schedule that suits every fountain, so follow the instructions that come with yours. International Cat Care puts it simply: water fountains must be regularly taken apart and cleaned thoroughly, and the filter changed, as recommended by the manufacturer.
For water containers in general, its advice is to provide fresh water daily and to clean the container regularly, daily if possible, with soap or washing-up liquid and hot water, then rinse well. It notes that mould and bacteria can build up in food and water bowls and affect how the water tastes.
A simple routine that keeps you on track:
- Switch off and unplug the fountain before you take it apart.
- Clean the parts as your fountain's instructions direct, and rinse them well.
- Replace the filter when the instructions recommend, and note the date so you know when the next one is due.
- Reassemble, refill with fresh water and plug it back in.
Our 2.2 L stainless steel cat water fountain uses an activated-carbon filter and a pre-filter sponge. Replacement filters are sold separately, so keep a spare in the cupboard for when one is due.
Where to put a cat water fountain
- Near a suitable socket. Our fountain is wired (not cordless), so place it within reach of a suitable socket.
- Away from the litter tray. Cats Protection says cats aren't keen on drinking near their litter tray and suggests keeping the two in separate rooms if possible. Blue Cross gives the same advice: move water away from the food bowl and litter tray.
- Not right next to food. International Cat Care says water beside the food bowl can stop some cats drinking, as food can get into it. The same room is fine, just not directly alongside.
- Somewhere quiet, with space around it. International Cat Care suggests a quiet spot away from busy doorways and machines such as washing machines, and away from walls so your cat can drink without having its back to the room.
- More than one cat? International Cat Care recommends at least one water source per cat, plus one extra.
Setting up a litter area too? Our open-top grey litter tray with clip-on scoop has a raised rim that lifts off for emptying and cleaning. Keep it in a separate spot from the fountain.
Introducing a new fountain
International Cat Care recommends a step-by-step approach: put the fountain in place empty and switched off so your cat can investigate, add water once your cat is comfortable with it, and only then turn it on. If your cat is sensitive to noise, it suggests standing the fountain on a silicone or rubber mat to reduce vibration.
Our stainless steel cat water fountain
Our stainless steel cat water fountain has a 2.2-litre reservoir, a 304 stainless-steel drinking area and a gentle, tap-style stream over a shallow surface. It comes with filter parts, and the water-level window shows when to top up. You'll find it with our other cat essentials in the Pets collection. UK delivery only: England, Wales and mainland Scotland. Sorry, we can't deliver to the Scottish Highlands & Islands, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or BFPO addresses. Some items take about 2 weeks to arrive. For more practical how-tos around the home, browse our Tips & Guides.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean a cat water fountain?
Follow the instructions that come with your fountain. International Cat Care says fountains must be taken apart and cleaned thoroughly on a regular basis, with the filter changed as the manufacturer recommends. For any water container, its general advice is fresh water every day.
How often should I change the filter?
As often as your fountain's instructions recommend. Filters for our 2.2 L stainless steel fountain are sold separately, so it's worth keeping a spare to hand.
Do I still need to top up the water between cleans?
Yes. Check the level each day and top up before it runs low. International Cat Care notes that some fountains get noisier when the water is low.
Where should I put a cat water fountain?
Somewhere quiet, within reach of a suitable socket, away from the litter tray and not right next to the food bowl. International Cat Care also suggests leaving space around it so your cat can drink without its back to the room.
My cat won't use the new fountain. What can I do?
Introduce it gradually. International Cat Care suggests putting it in place empty and switched off first, then adding water, and only then turning it on. International Cat Care also recommends having more than one water source around the home.
Sources: International Cat Care: encouraging your cat to drink (caregiver guide) · International Cat Care: how to encourage your cat to drink · International Cat Care: making your home cat friendly · Cats Protection: 8 tips to get your cat to drink more water · Blue Cross: keeping your cat cool in summer. Checked 27 October 2026.