“Stay Hydrated”: We often hear this advice - and for good reason. Truly, hydration is essential in everyday life, and the same applies to our beloved pets.
When it comes to our feline and canine companions, hydration helps with everything from digestion and circulation to temperature control. But when it comes to how they drink, is it time to upgrade from the classic bowl to something a bit more high-tech?
Let’s get the lowdown on which option deserves a spot in your pet’s daily routine.
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Content:
- Pet Water Fountain vs. Bowl
- How To Choose The Right Pet Water Fountain / Pet Bowl
- Tips In Introducing a Pet Water Fountain to Your Pet
- Conclusion
Pet Water Fountain vs. Bowl
Pet Water Fountain: Pros
If you notice your pet being drawn to running water such as the garden hose or a dripping tap, it’s no accident. Both cats and dogs are naturally drawn to moving water, which feels fresher and safer than still water. According to Dr. Jean Hofve, DVM, running water is especially enticing for pets. With this, a pet water fountain can be a great solution in wanting our pets to drink more water.
- Constant stream = fresher water
- Encourages picky drinkers (especially cats!)
- Filters remove fur, dirt, and funky smells too
- Keeps water cooler and tastier
- Larger capacity = fewer refills
- Some have multi-level stations for all sizes
Pet Water Fountain: Cons
- Needs power (plug or batteries)
- Higher upfront cost
- Filters need regular changing
- Mostly indoor-only use
Pet Water Bowl: Pros
- Budget-friendly
- No electricity or filters needed
- Great for outdoors or travel
Pet Water Bowl: Cons
- Needs frequent cleaning and refills
- Standing water can harbor bacteria
- Some pets may avoid it instinctively
If you have the means, a pet fountain might be worth the upgrade for your pet’s hydration and comfort. Meanwhile, a clean, refilled bowl still gets the job done - just don’t forget to clean and refill regularly.
Also note that many pets can be drawn to fountains, but some pets may ignore them too, so choosing among the two options also depends on your pet. Dr. Jean Hofve says running water can help, but recommends offering a fresh bowl of water too. Dehydration is dangerous for our pets so it is important to provide them with fresh water sources.
How To Choose The Right Pet Water Fountain / Pet Bowl
Best Pet Water Fountain: Things To Consider
Choosing the right fountain helps keep your cat healthy and hydrated. Here’s what to consider:
- Material
Generally, stainless steel or ceramic fountains are easier to clean and safer than plastic. The Petcube Water Fountain, for example, has both a ceramic (for pets prone to allergies & sensitive cats) or stainless steel (easy to clean & durable) option.
- Size
Bigger reservoirs are recommended for multi-cat households.
- Spout Style
Depending on your cat’s drinking preference.
- Power Source
If you don’t have an outlet, cordless or battery-operated ones are best. It’s also safer, especially if your pet tends to chew on things.
- Filter
Keeps water fresh between cleanings.
- Noise
Quiet pumps are best since cats have sensitive ears.
- Bonus Features
Extras like app control or water level windows would be a great addition for those who want more features. The Petcube Fountain, for instance, can be monitored and managed to the Petcube app.
Best Pet Water Bowl: Things To Consider
When selecting the ideal pet bowl, consider the following:
- Material: Go for stainless steel or ceramic ones for durability and hygiene. Try to avoid plastic, as it can harbor bacteria and skin issues, among other issues.
- Size and Design: Choose a bowl that suits your pet's size and drinking habits.
- Functionality: Elevated bowls can aid older pets with joint issues, while non-slip bases prevent spills.
- Ease of Cleaning: Select bowls that are easy to clean and maintain to ensure your pet's health.
By considering these factors, you can choose a bowl that meets your pet's needs and promotes their well-being.
Tips In Introducing a Pet Water Fountain to Your Pet
In a Reddit discussion under r/CatAdvice, a Redditor shares her experience with pet water fountains. She advices pet parents to acclimate pets to it first. In her case, she put the fountain next to her cat’s water bowl for her cat to get comfortable with it being around. After a week, she removed the bowl and her cat was already using the fountain with ease.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a smart fountain or a classic bowl, the goal remains tthe same - that is, to keep your pet hydrated, healthy, and happy. Having a pet water fountain can be beneficial to entice picky drinkers and offer filtered freshness - along with other useful features, while a trusty bowl is simple, effective, and ready for travel. What matters most is clean, accessible water that suits your pet’s lifestyle and habits. Observe what they respond to best, and don’t be afraid to mix it up too.
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