Keeping your cat hydrated is one of the easiest ways to keep them healthy, but clean water matters just as much as fresh water. Pet fountains help by keeping water flowing but also by filtering out pathogens that can make them sick. But just like any filter system, they only work if you keep them clean and up to date.
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Content:
- Why Changing the Filter Matters
- Recommended Replacement Frequency
- Tips for Maintaining Your Pet’s Fountain
- Conclusion
Why Changing the Filter Matters
Dirty water isn’t just gross. It can make your pet seriously sick because standing water breeds bacteria, and even flowing water can be a problem if the filter is past its prime.
Veterinaria, Dr. Suttiporn Srikullabutr writes that, “Coliform contamination in cat drinking water is common and occurs more often in households with longhaired cats.”
While coliform bacteria itself isn't always dangerous, it signals that other harmful pathogens may be present that could absolutely make your cat sick.
In fact, coliform bacteria can show up in a cat's regular water bowl in as little as 12 hours. That’s why a water fountain (like Petcube Fountain), with a fresh filter is one of the best ways to prevent your cat from picking up an infection.
This is especially true if they already have a sensitive stomach or a weakened immune system, such as in kittens, senior cats or any cat that may already be sick.
Recommended Replacement Frequency
Most pet fountains recommend replacing the filter about every 30 days, but it’s not just a suggestion. As one pet parent put it on Reddit:
“If you factor in your cat’s health and the benefits of them staying well-hydrated and not ingesting bacteria unnecessarily (all things that help keep kidney disease at bay), the filters are well worth it. My filters get moldy and gross by four weeks, which is the recommended replacement cycle.” — r/CatAdvice
With the Petcube Fountain, each polypropylene/carbon filter is designed to last up to 30 days, ensuring that the water stays safe and fresh. The fountain’s snap-together design makes it super easy to swap out filters without dealing with wires or clogs.
It’s a great way to make sure they always have clean water without needing to clean out a water bowl twice a day, so long as the water filter is not outdated.
Tips for Maintaining Your Pet’s Fountain
Here’s how to keep your fountain running smoothly between filter changes:
- Rinse the filter before use to remove any loose carbon dust.
- Clean the basin weekly with warm, soapy water to prevent buildup.
- Top off the water regularly to avoid running the pump dry.
- Set reminders to swap the filter every 30 days, or sooner if you see debris or muck.
If your tap water isn’t great, such as if it has an odor or hard mineral content) than using water that is already filtered or bottled water will take the strain off your fountain.
Luckily, thanks to its UV-C sterilization, the Petcube Fountain also prevents bacterial growth at the source, removing 99.7% of pathogens, according to EPA standards. That gives you an extra layer of protection between filter swaps.
Conclusion
Your cat drinks from their fountain every day, so their filter should be just as much a priority as their food bowl. Changing it monthly helps prevent bacterial growth and prevents infections while keeping them hydrated. Remember, a fresh filter is a small step with a big payoff.