Why Cats Love Running Water: The Science Behind Cat Fountains
Understanding your cat’s fascination with flowing water – and how cat fountains support their health.
Have you ever noticed your cat pawing at their water bowl or trying to drink from the tap? Many cats prefer running water to still water – and there’s fascinating science behind this behaviour.
Here’s why cats are naturally drawn to running water, and how a cat fountain can make a real difference to their daily hydration and wellbeing.
🐾 Why do cats prefer running water?
✅ 1. Instinct for freshness
In the wild, cats avoid stagnant water, which can harbour bacteria or parasites. Moving water signals freshness and safety, making it more appealing.
✅ 2. Enhanced taste and oxygenation
Flowing water tends to taste fresher as it’s better oxygenated. This makes fountains more enticing than bowls of still water left out all day.
✅ 3. Better visibility and sound cues
Cats can struggle to see still water clearly, especially in flat bowls. The movement and gentle trickle sound of running water helps them locate it easily.
✅ 4. Enrichment and sensory stimulation
Flowing water engages your cat’s senses, providing visual and auditory enrichment. For indoor cats, this simple stimulation is a healthy part of their daily routine.
🐾 Benefits of using a cat water fountain
✔️ Encourages hydration
Cats are naturally low-thirst animals, and many don’t drink enough. Fountains attract them to drink more often, supporting kidney and urinary health.
✔️ Keeps water fresh and clean
Catit fountains continuously filter and circulate water, preventing bacterial build-up and keeping it tasting fresh all day.
✔️ Reduces mess
No more tipping bowls over in attempts to make the water move – fountains satisfy your cat’s desire for running water safely.
🐾 Choosing the right fountain
The Catit PIXI Fountain range is designed with:
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Whisper-quiet pumps for peaceful drinking
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Triple action filtration to remove debris, odours, and impurities
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Fun designs and gentle flows to suit your cat’s preferences
Flowing water for happier, healthier cats
Running water isn’t just a preference – it’s part of your cat’s natural instincts. Explore our range of Catit water fountains to keep your cat hydrated, happy, and healthy every day.