Choosing the Right Material for Your Pet's Water Fountain

So you want to upgrade your pet’s drinking game. Next thing you know, you’re typing “best pet water fountain” in your favorite online search engine, scrolling through the many options available — stainless steel, ceramic, plastic, metal... With the variety of options, how do you choose the right material for a pet water fountain?

Pet water fountains were designed to offer a continuous flow of fresh, filtered water, and can boost your pet’s hydration. According to Dr. Dwight Alleyne, DVM, water fountains can encourage our pets to drink water since flowing water can be more appealing to them than still water. Oftentimes, it is also cleaner and less prone to bacterial growth or bugs that may affect your pet’s health.

But which material is best when it comes to pet water fountains? Let’s get to know the pros and cons of each to help you find the best fit for your pet as well as your daily routine.

Content:

1. Stainless Steel Pet Water Fountains
2. Ceramic Pet Water Fountains
3. Plastic Pet Drinking Fountains
4. Advice From Pet Water Fountain Users
5. Conclusion

Stainless Steel Pet Water Fountains

Why Choose a Stainless Steel Water Fountain For Cats or Dogs?

For pet parents who are health-conscious and want a dog / cat water fountain that is built to last, a stainless steel pet fountain is a top pick.

Pros:

• Hygienic - Non-porous; resistant to bacteria, mold, and odor
• Safe - Those labeled as food-grade (especially ones with grade 304) ensure no harmful chemicals contaminate the water
• Durable - Resistant to rust, scratch-proof, and ideal for daily use
• Easy to clean - Smooth surface, dishwasher-safe
• Modern look - Sleek, stylish design fits any home

Cons:

• Higher price - Costs more than plastic, but lasts longer
• Noise - If not designed well, Sound may be louder than other options when water hits the surface.

With Petcube Fountain, stainless steel is one of the options for the basin material, which ensures lasting freshness. And because the stainless steel material and water flow are well-designed, the fountain produces a quiet flow under 30dB, so you and your pet can relax without the noise.

Read more: How Often to Change Pet Water Fountain Filter?

Ceramic Pet Water Fountains

So what are the pros and cons of a ceramic water fountain for cats or dogs? A ceramic fountain is a stylish and safe option to keep your pet hydrated. High-quality ones are non-porous, preventing the build-up of bacteria. It also keeps water cooler - which many cats like. On the other hand, it can also be fragile when dropped.

Pros:

• Generally non-toxic - specifically those that are lead-free and have food-safe glazes
• Aesthetically appealing - stylish, comes in various colors and patterns
• Keeps water cool - which some cats prefer
• Stability - Heavy enough to prevent tipping

Cons:

• Breakable - prone to chipping or cracking when dropped, which can harbor bacteria
• Some glazes can be unsafe - make sure to look for those that are lead-free or food safe
• Some need regular cleaning - Some need to be cleaned regularly to avoid the accumulation of minerals

Read more: How to Keep Your Pet Water Fountain Clean (and Slime-Free)

Plastic Pet Drinking Fountains

Plastic fountains are quite popular because they’re more affordable and offer more variety/availability. They do, however, require some TLC.

Pros:

• Cost-effective - Often the most affordable option
• Variety - It comes in various colors, shapes, and sizes
• Portable & lightweight – Easy to move and reposition

Cons:

• Absorbs odor - more prone to absorbing smells and tastes over time
• Prone to scratches - which can harbor bacteria
• Chemical concerns – May release compounds (including those that are BPA-free)
• Black chin – Can cause acne in some cats

Generally, a dog / cat pet fountain can be ideal for short-term use, as long as it is cleaned thoroughly and often.

An example of a good quality pet water fountain is the Petcube Fountain, with your choice of a stainless steel or ceramic basin, a 1,700 ml capacity food-grade plastic tank, and a 4-way filtration - also human grade, a pumpless design, among other innovative features.

Advice From Pet Water Fountain Users

A Redditor shares that the best pet fountain for her is the one that her pet ultimately drinks more from. She also recommends one that is easy to clean and replace parts, and has access to water even in a power outage.

Samantha Bell, cat expert from Best Friends Animal Society reminds pet owners that pet water fountains can get quite dirty and slimy if not cleaned enough. Because of this, it is important to set reminders for regular cleaning of the fountain and replacing filters as needed.

Conclusion

Whether you choose stainless steel, plastic, ceramic, or what have you, finding the right pet water fountain will depend on several factors, including your pet’s needs and your routine. We hope that the pros and cons above will help you make an informed choice about the materials of pet water fountains available in the market today. At the end of the day, the best pet fountain is the one that keeps your furry friend happy, healthy, and hydrated.