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Many cats drink more from moving water than from a still bowl, which is why water fountains are so popular with cat owners. Two of the best-known fountains are the Catit Flower Fountain and the PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless Steel. They take quite different approaches: the Catit is compact and playful, while the Drinkwell 360 is a larger stainless steel fountain made for multiple pets. This Catit vs Drinkwell comparison will help you pick the right one.
Our Quick Picks
- Best for One or Two CatsCatit Flower FountainCheck Price on Amazon
- Best for Multi-Cat HomesPetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless SteelCheck Price on Amazon
Short on time? These are our top choices. Full reviews and comparisons are below.
Catit Flower vs Drinkwell 360 at a Glance
| Feature | Catit Flower Fountain | PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | About 3 liters | About 3.8 liters (larger) |
| Material | Plastic body | Stainless steel bowl |
| Water flow | Three settings: gentle bubble, flower stream, cascading | Several free-falling streams around the fountain |
| Footprint | Compact | Larger |
| Best for | One or two cats, small spaces | Multi-cat homes, cats and dogs |
| Filter | Replaceable filter | Replaceable carbon filters |
| Cleaning | Several small parts | Stainless bowl is dishwasher safe |
Design and Drinking Style
The Catit Flower has a flower-shaped top you can adjust to create a gentle bubbling surface, a small flower fountain or a stream. Cats who like to lap from a calm surface and cats who like to drink from a stream can both find a way to drink. The Drinkwell 360 has several streams falling from a central tower into a wide bowl, so multiple pets can drink at once from different sides.
Material and Hygiene
Stainless steel is generally easier to keep clean and is less likely to scratch and harbor bacteria than plastic. Some owners prefer it for cats prone to chin acne. The Catit Flower is plastic, which is lightweight and affordable, and Catit also offers stainless versions of the design. Whichever you choose, regular cleaning matters more than material.
Noise
Both fountains are generally quiet when the water level is kept topped up. Noise usually increases when the water runs low or the pump needs cleaning. If your fountain gets louder, check the level first, then clean the pump.
Our Picks
1. Catit Flower Fountain — Best for One or Two Cats
A compact, affordable fountain with three adjustable flow styles. It fits easily on a kitchen floor or counter and suits most single-cat and two-cat homes.
- Three flow settings
- Compact footprint
- Affordable
Worth knowing: Several small parts to clean. Replace the filter regularly.
2. PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless Steel — Best for Multi-Cat Homes
A larger stainless steel fountain with multiple streams, so several pets can drink at the same time. The bigger capacity means fewer refills.
- Stainless steel bowl
- Multiple drinking streams
- Larger capacity
Worth knowing: It takes up more floor space and uses carbon filters that need replacing.
Catit vs Drinkwell: Which Should You Choose?
| If you… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Have one or two cats | Catit Flower |
| Have three or more pets | Drinkwell 360 |
| Prefer stainless steel | Drinkwell 360 |
| Have limited floor space | Catit Flower |
| Have a cat who likes to lap from a calm surface | Catit Flower on the bubble setting |
How to Clean a Cat Fountain
- Unplug the fountain and empty it.
- Take it apart, including the pump cover.
- Wash all parts in warm, soapy water. Use a small brush for the pump and tubes.
- Rinse thoroughly so no soap taste remains.
- Replace the filter as recommended.
- Reassemble, refill with fresh water, and plug back in.
Aim to clean the fountain every one to two weeks, and top up water daily. In multi-cat homes, weekly cleaning is best.
The Bottom Line
The Catit Flower Fountain is a great, affordable choice for one or two cats and small spaces. The PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless is the better pick for multi-cat households or anyone who prefers stainless steel. Both can encourage your cat to drink more, which is good for their health.
Where to Put a Cat Fountain
- Away from the litter box. Cats prefer to drink far from where they toilet.
- A little apart from the food bowl. Many cats drink more when water is not right beside food.
- On a waterproof mat, since some cats splash or paw at moving water.
- Near an outlet, so the cord is not stretched across a walkway.
- In a quiet spot where your cat feels safe, not a busy hallway.
In larger homes or multi-cat households, consider a second water source in another room. Some cats also like a plain wide bowl alongside the fountain.
Helping Your Cat Get Used to a Fountain
Some cats drink from a new fountain immediately, while others are suspicious of the sound and movement. Start on the gentlest flow setting, place the fountain where the old water bowl used to be, and keep the old bowl nearby for a week or two. Once your cat is drinking from the fountain regularly, you can remove the bowl. If your cat seems to be drinking much more or much less than usual at any point, mention it to your vet, since changes in thirst can be a sign of health problems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Catit Flower or Drinkwell 360 quieter?
Both are quiet when full and clean. Low water or a dirty pump makes either one noisier.
Which fountain is easier to clean?
The Drinkwell 360’s stainless bowl is easy to clean and dishwasher safe. The Catit has more small parts but is simple once you know how it fits together.
How often should I change the filter?
Follow the maker’s guidance, typically every two to four weeks, more often with several pets.
Do cat fountains help cats drink more?
Many cats drink more from moving water, which can support hydration. Every cat is different.
Can dogs use the Drinkwell 360?
Yes, it suits small dogs and cats. Larger dogs may need a bigger fountain.