Are Water Fountains Good for Cats?

by Britt

Published: June 27th, 2023

Photo credit: Creative Cat Studio / Shutterstock.com

As a cat parent, you understand that our feline friends deserve nothing but the best. This means prioritizing their well-being and identifying potential health risks you can prevent. One such risk you should be familiar with is dehydration. Ensuring your cats drink enough water to meet their daily needs can be challenging. If you’re currently struggling with this, I am here to help.

Check out this article for tips and tricks to encourage your cat to drink more water. Plus, I’ll share why we love water fountains for all pets in our home.

Do Cats Get Dehydrated Easily?

While any pet may struggle with dehydration, it’s surprisingly common among cats. Why? Unlike dogs and other pets, most cats don’t have the desire to drink plain water. Experts say that this can be traced back to their roots.

In the wild, cats are obligate carnivores – meaning they depend strictly on meat for survival. Meat contains high moisture levels, allowing them to obtain most of the water they need through their food. However, the same can’t be said with the shift to commercial cat foods and treats, especially dry kibble. This makes it more important than ever for cat parents to be proactive with hydration.

Signs of Dehydration in Cats

Even if you’re diligent about encouraging your cat to drink enough water daily, it is always possible that they will fall short of their hydration needs. This is further compounded by the fact that several medical conditions and illnesses can increase the risk of dehydration.

Be on the lookout for these signs of trouble:

Panting
Sunken eyes
Dry or tacky gums
Refusal to eat or take treats
Constipation
Loss of skin elasticity
Increased heart rate
Weakness or lethargy

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any warning signs of dehydration in your cat. They may be able to provide you with some guidance for treatment over the phone. Avoid forcing your cat to drink water, especially using a dropper or syringe. These tools can be helpful in some settings, but they also carry the risk that the fluid enters their lungs, causing pneumonia. Consider offering Pedialyte or canned cat food, which contains as much as 80% water.

In severe dehydration cases, you will need to take your cat to the nearest veterinarian or emergency clinic for the necessary medical intervention to avoid serious and potentially life-threatening complications.

How to Check Skin Elasticity

The skin tent test is one of the most effective ways to test whether your cat is suffering from dehydration. To test this, you will take a small piece of your cat’s skin at the back of their neck, between the shoulders, between your thumb and forefinger. Gently pull this skin up and then release it, watching the skin respond. If the skin falls right back down quickly, your cat is properly hydrated.

If, however, the skin remains in a tented position, this indicates that your cat is dehydrated, and you should contact your veterinarian. The longer it takes for the skin to return to its original position, the more severe the dehydration.

One important point to note is that skin elasticity does not remain consistent throughout your cat’s life. As they age, the skin elasticity may decrease, meaning that the skin may remain tented for a short time even when fully hydrated. If you’re unsure or notice tenting in combination with any other warning signs of dehydration, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Common Causes of Dehydration in Cats

Failure to drink enough water isn’t the only potential cause of dehydration. There is also the possibility that this is a sign of a bigger health problem. If so, the only way to treat your cat’s dehydration is first to identify the cause. These medical explanations may be a minor illness or symptom, or they could be a serious lifelong illness that will require proper ongoing management.

Some illnesses or medical conditions that could lead to dehydration include:

Vomiting or Diarrhea: Whether your cat is experiencing a stomach bug or struggling with gastrointestinal problems from a more severe health issue, vomiting and diarrhea cause your cat to lose large amounts of water. Even if they drink normally, losing more water than they can replace will lead to dehydration.
Hot Weather, Heat Stroke, Heat Exhaustion: As your cat’s body overheats, they will lose excessive amounts of water through sweating and panting to cool themselves off.
Fever: Like the above-mentioned heat-related illnesses, a fever means a noted increase in your cat’s body temperature. As this temperature rises, even if the exterior temperature is cool, the body will respond by trying to cool off and expelling large amounts of water.
Diabetes: If the kidneys cannot keep up with the excess glucose in the body, they will try to eliminate it to balance the system again in your cat’s urine. However, to do this, the body expels large amounts of water carrying this glucose, taking fluids from otherwise healthy tissues.

Other medical conditions associated with dehydration include hyperthyroidism, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, renal disease, or traumatic injuries.

How Do I Get My Cat to Drink More Water?

Like most medical struggles with multiple potential causes, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution to dehydration in cats. Instead, you must consider the situation leading up to this point and how to address it appropriately. This often involves a combination of medical treatment for any underlying causes and encouraging your cat to drink more water and improve their hydration levels. But how do you get your cat to drink more water? Here are a few tips and tricks that you can use:

Flavor Your Cat’s Water

Adding a small amount of salmon or tuna juice from the can or a pet-friendly broth to your cat’s water may provide enough temptation to convince your cat to try it. Check the ingredients of any product you choose to ensure it is safe for your cat. Pay careful attention to sodium levels, using only low-sodium or sodium-free products to avoid salt poisoning.

Rehydrate Your Cat’s Kibble

A good practice to get into if you are kibble-feeding your cat is to rehydrate their kibble. This means adding water to the kibble. Alternatively, you can use other forms of moisture, like mixing in canned foods or adding bone broth (homemade or commercially purchased) to your cat’s meal.

Clean Your Cat’s Bowls Daily

Your cat may be bothered by a smell or the presence of dirt and dust in their dish. This can easily be addressed by cleaning your cat’s dish every day. It ensures that they have clean, fresh water available at all times. It is also a great way to remind yourself to fill their dish regularly so that it never runs low.

Ensure Water is Easily Accessible

If your cat must work for their water, they likely will overlook it entirely. This includes traveling too far to find it, contending with obstacles like stairs, or needing to pass through a high-traffic location to get to it. If you’re concerned this may be part of your cat’s challenge, consider placing additional water dishes around the home in their favorite places.

Do you have more than one cat? In some situations, a cat becomes possessive of a water dish, protecting it from other pets in the house. If this is the only water dish currently in place, this would mean one of your cats is restricted from being able to drink at all. If you notice any bullying or resource guarding, consider it a sign that you must make more resources available.

Experiment with Bowl Size, Shape, and Material

Cats can be very finicky, with preferences regarding what dishes they eat or drink from. If your cat is reluctant to drink from the water dish you have given them, consider experimenting with different options. Try a larger bowl or a shallow bowl with a lower side for them to reach over. Try plastic, stainless steel, and ceramic bowl options. With each new bowl, take note of your cat’s reaction to identify which they like best and which they avoid.

Try a Water Fountain

Another great option to encourage your cat to drink more water is to switch from a standard water dish to a water fountain. Some cats refuse to drink still water unless they have no other choice, drinking from running or dripping taps in the house instead of a dish. The water movement in the fountain naturally attracts cats that otherwise may not pay attention to their water dish. They also keep the water fresh and cool, making it more enticing.

Where Should I Put My Cat’s Water Fountain or Dish?

An important consideration when it comes to whether your cat will drink out of their water dish is the placement of the dish and its surroundings.

First, ensure your cat’s water dish is separate from the other “key” areas. Why? Cats naturally don’t want to drink in the same place where they eat or go to the bathroom. This is a survival instinct that dates back to their wild ancestors to avoid drinking water that had been contaminated by their waste or bacteria from their prey. When possible, set these areas up in different rooms from one another. If it’s not possible, at least be sure you are placing as much space between them as possible, given the room available.

You should also take note of any other activities happening in the space. If your cat’s water dish is in a high-traffic room of your home, there may be too much going on to allow them to drink comfortably. Other things to look out for include fans that could create uncomfortable air movement, off-putting smells (even if you think they are pleasant), or other pets in the home with access to that area. Create a space where your cat can enjoy a relaxing drink without interruptions or distractions.

Our Solution: Catit LED Flower Fountain with Triple Action Filter

From a young age, we noticed that our one cat Pippen always preferred moving water. She would happily run over to drink from the water tap each time we turned it on. However, we didn’t want just to leave the tap running all day and night! Before long, our younger cat also seemed to pick up on these habits, and we were searching for a reasonable way to handle this. Our solution was to bring a water fountain into the home and see if they showed the same level of interest.

We chose the Catit LED Flower Fountain for several reasons. First, the flower design on the top of the fountain created multiple streams of water, allowing both cats to comfortably drink simultaneously without having to compete.

Second, we knew this water fountain had a more comprehensive filtering system. It includes a triple-action softening cat filter that helps to remove any dirt, dust, and impurities in the water. If there is any sign of something in her water dish, our cat Jinx turns up her nose. With the water continually moving through this filter, we knew that she would always have clean, filtered water waiting for her, even if we weren’t around to check it several times daily.

After testing a single fountain and watching their response, we have since expanded to add two more. There are currently fountains in the dining room of our home, on a secluded staircase up to the loft where they can hide away from any company and enjoy a drink, and back in the bedroom and office area. This setup has considerably impacted their water intake (in a positive way).

Our cat Jinx drinking out of her Catit LED Flower Fountain.

Pros

Moving water attracts and entices cats to drink more
Water is always fresh and filtered
Cools water as it circulates throughout the day

Cons

More expensive investment, including ongoing filter costs
Take more work to clean than a standard water dishes
Can only be set up in areas where you have access to a power outlet

Final Thoughts

As with any potential health risk, dehydration is an important topic that all cat parents should familiarize themselves with. If left unaddressed, it can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications. Luckily, in most cases, it can be easily addressed by making a few changes around your home to the location of your cat’s water dish and the style of dish available. Introducing a cat water fountain with a built-in filtration system is an excellent solution for those cats who are extra finicky about their water. It’s a great way to be proactive and improve your cat’s overall health and well-being.

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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When the celebrations begin and the fireworks are brought out, they can become a source of anxiety and fear for many dogs, and it is not uncommon for them to run away in panic. If your pet happens to run away because of fireworks, it can be a distressing experience for sure – both for you and them – but it is crucial to remain as calm as possible and take action to find them as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know in order to locate your pet quickly and to prevent any future escapes.What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?Fireworks are a big part of festivities such as Fourth of July, New Years Eve, and even smaller celebrations, such as people’s weddings and birthdays. Often, you cannot prevent this, as fireworks can be released by neighbors or at the town square. And even if you are near your pooch, one moment can be enough for them to bolt off. Here is what to do if that happens:#1 Stay calm:First of all, it is essential to stay calm and composed. Keep a level head, as panicking won’t help you think clearly or act effectively. Take a few deep breaths and start your search methodically.#2 Check your home and immediate surroundings:Dogs often don’t go far at first. Thoroughly search your home, yard, and nearby areas. Look under porches, in bushes, and any hiding spots they might find comforting. #3 Call and listen:Walk around the neighborhood calling your dog’s name. Pause and listen for any sounds of movement or barking in response. Sometimes, a frightened doggo may be nearby but too scared to come out immediately.#4 Use a familiar scent:Leave out your dog’s bedding, favorite toys, and some pieces of your clothing. The familiar smells can lure them back home. Placing their food and water outside can also help. Remember that dogs have super powerful noses and will pick up scents with ease. To help broaden your search, you can also inform your neighbors about your missing pet. Provide them with a description and your contact information. Neighbors can keep an eye out and may have already seen your pet. Similarly, you can post about your missing dog on local social media groups, such as Facebook community pages, Nextdoor, and other neighborhood forums. Include a clear photo, a description, and your contact details. The more people are aware, the better the chances of finding your dog. If enough time passes, you can also visit the nearby animal shelters, rescue organizations, and vet clinics. Bring a recent photo of your dog with you or easier identification. Leave your contact information and check back regularly.Another great idea is to make flyers with a clear photo of your pooch, a fitting description, and your contact information. Distribute them around your neighborhood, in local businesses, and public areas. This traditional method can still be very effective.Preventing Your Pet Runs Away Or Gets Lost Due to FireworksOnce you find your pet it is important to take steps to prevent this from ever happening again. Here are some basic steps to take:#1 Secure your home and your yard: Ensure that your house and yard are secure. Check for any weak spots in the fence, or find areas where your pet could escape. #2 Microchip:Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the information is up-to-date. In addition to a microchip, your dog should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number.

Globetrotting Pet Lovers Discover a New Way to Travel Cheap

Airbnbs get a run for their money as pet sitting home swaps become the new way to travel on a budget.

Audio, a 4-Eared Kitten, Is Turning Heads in Tennessee

Tales of rescue cats often capture our hearts online, overcoming rough beginnings and finding loving forever homes. However, a recent story out of Tennessee has captured the attention of people around the world online. Earlier this summer, True Rescue, an animal rescue based out of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, shared the newest kitties to come into their care. Among them was an 8–9-week-old kitten with a surprising genetic defect – he has 4 ears. Named Audio due to his ability to hear the world in surround sound (100% an intentional pun), this sweet boy weighed just over 2 pounds, but don’t let his small size surprise you. This little guy is full of personality, and he’s showing the world that, in some situations, more really is more!Four kittens came into the care of True Rescue after being dumped in a mechanic’s shop in a duct-taped box with no air holes. The kittens all required antibiotics and veterinary care for their condition due to an upper respiratory infection. They continue to take antibiotics as of the last update that the rescue provided to their followers but were doing well. After sharing the story of Audio on their Facebook, it was clear the people wanted to know more. The rescue shared this viral video, introducing the sweet young boy:

Handsome Rescue Cat Hamlet Runs His Own Hotel

Move over, Fido! Who needs a guard dog when you have a feline overseeing the place? At least, that’s how the owners and employees of New York City’s Algonquin Hotel seem to believe…Since the 1930s, the hotel lobby has been carefully supervised by a one-of-a-kind employee. But don’t let his small size fool you – the Algonquin Cat, as they are lovingly called, is an important fixture of the hotel with a long history that most are unaware of.The tradition began when the hotel’s owner, Frank Case, welcomed a stray orange tabby cat named Billy into the hotel. It wasn’t long before Billy could be seen walking the hotel’s elegant halls with his head (and tail) held high. Before long, he was renamed Hamlet (a more literary name suitable for a cat with such big responsibilities), and a legend was born.Since that day, the hotel has never been without a feline greeter. All boy cats that serve in this role are orange tabbies named Hamlet while all girl cats are ragdolls named Matilda. The best part? In honor of the first Hamlet’s origin story, all the hotel’s resident cats are rescues.Today, Hamlet the 8th continues to rule the hotel lobby, an incredible step up from the feral cat colony he once called home.When he’s not working, Hamlet is pampered with daily brushing, fashion show benefits, birthday parties, and other perks. Plus, of course, the steady stream of attention that he receives from the many cat lovers who come to see the hardworking kitty.Just a couple of years ago, the hotel underwent a refresh. The oldest continuously operating hotel in the city was starting to look a little worn. In addition to focusing on maintaining the historic architecture and feel of the hotel, the redesign also focused on finding new ways to accommodate Hamlet VIII and the many cats that will follow in his paw prints.A small cat house was installed by the reception desk. “The idea is, hopefully, he likes it in there so the guests can see him when they first walk in, but he also feels safe,” explained Sara Duffy, a principal at the architecture and interior design firm Stonehill Taylor who carried out the hotel’s refresh.The cat-friendly accommodations didn’t end there. A bookshelf in the hotel’s lounge features cat-friendly nooks and ladders, allowing him to easily move around the room while visiting with various guests. A daybed by the window creates the perfect place for Hamlet VIII to relax and soak up the sun’s rays.“He likes to be up high and look down, to observe but not be pet all the time. But sometimes he likes to come down and participate,” said Duffy when asked about the lounge’s design features.If you’re interested in visiting Hamlet VIII while in New York, the Algonquin Hotel is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues at 59 West 44th Street. Or you can read more about these legendary cats in the book Matilda, the Algonquin Cat.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Cozy Fall Is Back – And So Are GREENIES Pumpkin Spice Dental Treats!

There is nothing that feels cozier than autumn. As the evenings become chillier and the leaves turn into vibrant shades of orange, we all get into that fall mood and reach for our favorite treats – such as a yummy pumpkin spice latte! And now, thanks to the limited-edition dental chews from GREENIES, your pet can enjoy the same cinnamony, pumpkin flavor you look forward to each year. Specially crafted for the autumn season, these one-of-a-kind chews are designed to give your pet a taste of fall while promoting healthy teeth and fresh breath all the while.

What Are Symptoms of Heatstroke in Rabbits?

Pet rabbits can be quite vulnerable to extreme summer temperatures. One particular condition that is most threatening and can be fatal to them is heatstroke. Because of their thick fur and limited ability to sweat, rabbits are susceptible to heatstroke, and you will need to know how to spot the symptoms quickly. Here is all you need to know about heatstroke in rabbits and its dangers.What Causes Heatstroke in Rabbits?Unlike us humans, rabbits rely primarily on their ears to regulate their body temperature. When their body temperature rises to dangerous levels, usually above 104 F (40 degrees Celsius), heatstroke can occur. There are several factors that can contribute to it, and the foremost is high temperature. Exposure to temperatures above 80 F (27 degrees Celsius) can be dangerous to rabbits, especially if they are not accustomed to such conditions. Similarly, high humidity levels can make the effects of heat even worse. This is because they hinder the rabbit’s ability to cool itself through evaporation.Poor ventilation in your home can trap heat and increase the risk of heatstroke. Try improving the airflow in the room and lowering the temperature with a classic stand fan. A lack of shade can have a similar effect, especially if the rabbit is kept outdoors. In such cases, you will have to provide ample shade for your furry friend.

How Do I Introduce Cats and Dogs Safely?

There has long been a stereotype of dogs and cats as mortal enemies, constantly at one another’s throats. While becoming a two-pet household can sometimes be overwhelming, there is something so magical about watching your pets form their special bond.Introducing dogs and cats can be a nerve-racking process, but it doesn’t have to be.This post will guide you through a step-by-step approach to introducing your pets safely and carefully, laying the foundation for a positive relationship. Plus, you’ll find tips to ensure a smooth transition for both pets.How to Introduce a Cat and Dog Together: 5 Easy StepsIf you already have one pet in your home, introducing a second involves planning, preparation, and a lot of patience. While there are ways to overcome a rough first meeting, the best possible scenario is to ensure your pets start off on the right foot (or should I say paw).Here is a step-by-step walk-through of how to approach an introduction with the best chance of success.However, it’s important to note that there are some situations where this simply won’t work. For example, if you have a pet with previous negative interactions with other animals, they may be more nervous or anxious, requiring a slightly different approach. Use this as a starting point, but be prepared to be flexible and offer more care and consideration where needed.Step One: Consider PersonalitiesYou may be surprised to learn that the first step starts as early as selecting the right pets. Just as some people mesh better than others, the same can be said for our animals. When adopting a second pet, take the time to try to match personalities.A few important things to consider include:Energy Levels: If you have a laid-back or senior pet, adding a high-energy pet to the mix could be stressful and frustrating. Alternatively, a calm, quiet pet may struggle to settle into your home if your current pet is rambunctious.Outgoing vs. Shy: Some pets show more interest in playing and connecting with other pets, like an extroverted person who jumps right into wanting an interaction. On the other end of the spectrum, a shy pet (or introverted person) will want their space.Play Style: Some pets will play rougher than others. If you have a dog, for example, who plays rougher, a delicate kitten isn’t a good match as they could be injured. Instead, a playful adult cat who shares that play style would be a better match.Previous Interactions: Sometimes, a pet’s previous experiences can offer a glimpse of whether they will mesh well together. A dog that has shown they will chase cats who run wouldn’t mesh well with a cat who tends to run the moment they see a dog.Step Two: Start At a DistanceBefore bringing the two pets together, you must start introducing them at a distance. This means introducing them to one another’s scents while keeping them confined in their own safe spaces. The best way to do this is by keeping your pets in separate rooms and rotating them into a common living area where they can investigate one another’s scent.For example, if you have two bedrooms, you can place a pet in each bedroom. If not, consider blocking off a dining room, laundry room, or bathroom to keep one of your pets safely contained. Alternatively, a crate can be used to keep one of the pets in a hallway or space the other doesn’t have access to.Note: Allowing the pet moving freely in the home to tease or bother the crated pet can create frustration and anxiety. This could destroy any chance that your pets can coexist happily.We have always used the MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door Dog Crate when crate training our dogs. Its dual front and side doors ensure that the crate can easily fit into any space. For containing our cats, we prefer to use enclosures with multiple levels, like the MidWest Homes for Pets Cat Playpen, which allows them to climb and explore.Another great approach to introducing pets to one another’s scent is scent-swapping with blankets. Allow your pets to each sleep with a blanket, then place them in the other pet’s room or space.

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