Introduction
When I bought my first pet fountain, I was sure my cat would be thrilled. Clean running water, gentle sound, stylish design — seemed like the perfect upgrade. But pets aren’t always predictable. Some dive right in, others act like it’s a strange device in their space.
So, how do you know if your cat or dog actually likes the fountain? Here’s what I’ve learned from my own experience and from talking with other pet owners.
Signs Your Pet Likes the Fountain
1. They Use It
This one sounds obvious, but it’s the first thing to check. If your pet walks up, leans in, and starts lapping water without hesitation, you’re on the right track. The real sign is that they do it regularly — not just once out of curiosity.
My cat now heads straight to her fountain first thing in the morning. She’s even stopped begging for tap water. Here are the tips on how to train your pet to use a water fountain if they’re unsure at first.
2. They Pick the Fountain Over the Bowl
If you still keep a regular water bowl nearby, watch where your pet drinks more often. Many animals will still use both, but if the fountain is getting most of the attention, that’s a good sign.
Dogs are usually easy to read — they’ll head for the sound of water after playtime. Cats are a little sneakier, so you might have to check water levels to see which one they’re actually using more. This comparison between a cat fountain and a bowl explains why many pets make the switch.
3. They’re Curious but Not Nervous
Pets naturally investigate anything new. They might sniff around the base, tilt their head, or watch the stream for a while before drinking. That’s normal. The important part is that they don’t seem stressed by it.
If they’re relaxed enough to explore and eventually take a sip, it means they’re warming up to it.
4. They Drink More Often Than Before
One of the biggest benefits of a fountain is that it can make pets drink more water. If you notice your cat or dog visiting the fountain several times a day instead of just once or twice, that’s a big win for their health.
When I switched to a fountain, my cat went from drinking only in the evenings to taking small sips throughout the day — much better for hydration.
5. They Play With It
Some pets like to bat at the water or dip a paw in. As long as they’re also drinking, this is a good sign. Moving water can be stimulating and fun for them.
Just keep an eye on messy drinkers — especially dogs that might turn the fountain into a splash zone.
6. They Stick Around After Drinking
Sometimes my cat just sits near the fountain, as if it’s part of her territory. Pets don’t hang out next to things they dislike. If they seem relaxed around it, that’s a sign of comfort. Choosing the best cat water fountain can make them more inclined to claim it as their own.
7. No Signs of Avoidance
If your pet doesn’t like the fountain, they’ll show it — avoiding that corner, drinking from other sources, or flinching at the sound. If none of that is happening, they’re at least okay with it and likely enjoying it.
If They’re Unsure at First
Some pets take time to adjust. You can help by:
- Letting them see and smell the fountain while it’s off.
- Placing it where their old bowl used to be.
- Lowering the water flow if the stream feels too strong.
- Keeping it spotless — pets notice stale water faster than we do.
With patience, most pets will accept (and eventually prefer) the fountain.
The Importance of a Good Quality Pet Water Fountain
This is not only a question of whether they like it or not. It is important to drink water to avoid kidney diseases, urinary tract diseases, and dehydration. Your pet can benefit greatly with a fountain that will get your pet to drink more.
The WOpet Pet Water Fountain can be a good option when you want a quiet, simple to clean, and pet-safe water fountain. It is softly flowing, has a filter to prevent fur and dust getting in, and my cat was using it less than a day.
Bottom Line
When your pet uses the fountain frequently, appears to be comfortable around it and perhaps even prefers it to other water sources.
And what when they are reluctant? Never quit. Allow them time, make minor changes and refresh the water. The majority of pets will adjust- and you will have the assurance that they are getting hydrated daily.
