Yes, you can use a cat water fountain without a filter. A cat water fountain is designed to continuously circulate and filter water, providing a fresh and appealing drinking source for your cat. The primary purpose of the filter in a cat water fountain is to remove impurities, hair, debris, and bacteria from the water, enhancing its quality and taste. However, if you choose not to use a filter, it is still possible to use the fountain. You would need to regularly clean and change the water more frequently to maintain its cleanliness. Without a filter, there is a higher chance of the water becoming stagnant and developing bacterial growth, potentially affecting the health of your cat. Therefore, using a filter is generally recommended to ensure your cat has access to clean and fresh water throughout the day.
Best Cat Water Fountains of 2025
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel, KOOGMOON 108oz/3.2L Water Fountain for Cats Inside, Cat Fountain with Water Level Window, Hemispherical Shape, Multi-Filter, Silent Pump, Water Tap, Flowing Water
-
😸No Need for Frequent Water Refills: With a capacity of 3.2L/108oz, this cat water dispenser ensures your pets have access to water throughout the day - making it perfect for busy, pet-loving families.
-
😸Crisp, Clean and Clear Water All Day: The KOOGMOON dog water fountain is the perfect way to keep your furry friends hydrated with fresh, filtered water whenever they need it. This pet water fountain's multiple filtration system that removes impurities and hair, ensuring your cat and dog have access to clean and healthy water.
-
😸Make Water Monitoring Easier: This pet water fountain with visualized water level window make Water volume at a glance at any time. Simultaneously, the cat water fountain has a blue light so pets can find the water source themselves when thirsty at night.
-
😸Quieter Than Ever with: The sound of this water fountain's pump is almost 23dB when running. Sweet dreams not only you but also your pet. And the lower-voltage, more efficient water pump provide a steady flow of fresh water for your furry friend to drink whenever they please.
-
😸Entice Them to Drink More: With multi-drinking angle and the design of faucets, this cat fountains for drinking is sure to catch your pet's attention and encourage them to drink more water throughout the day.
-
😸0 Hard-To-Clean Area: Easier to clean and safer than plastic water dispensers, it is made from food grade 304 stainless steel. The split design of the water cooler can be completely washed down.
-
😸Customer service: 2 years pump warranty, if you have any problem, contact us for replacement. You can buy from our store if you need more parts.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
AOOGITF Cat Water Fountain, 304 Stainless Steel Pet Water Fountain, 24/7 Keep The Water Fresh, 74oz Capacity, Ultra-Quiet, No Sputter, Compact, Easy Cleaning, Suit for Pets
-
【304 Stainless Steel Material】Compared with plastic materials, the pet fountain made of stainless steel materials is more tough, better resistant to corrosion,longer service life, and no other material elements will penetrate into the water to ensure the safety of pet drinking water.
-
【Continuous Flowing Water】Flowing water can attract animals to drink water. The use of pet fountain can ensure that continuous flowing water, continuous flowing water is beneficial to water purification, ensuring that your cat continues to drink clean water, helping cats' health.
-
【Activated Carbon Filter】The activated carbon filter has dual functions of filtration and purification. It combines adsorption, filtration, interception, and catalytic action. It can effectively remove organic matter, residual chlorine and other substances in the water, and ensure that the water quality is clean.
-
【74oz Water Capacity】74oz capacity, even if you go out for a week, you don't have to worry about your pets without water. This pet feeder continues to provide your pet with high -quality water sources, save your time, and help reduce trouble. You only need to add water every week to ensure the safety of pet drinking water.
-
【5V Energy-saving Pump】This pet fountain uses a 5V energy -saving environmental protection water pump. Low power consumption, mute, smooth water out of water and not splashing. If you encounter any problems in use, please contact us at any time, and we provide one -year warranty service.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Cat Water Fountain, GIOTOHUN Faucet-Shaped 67oz/2L Cat Fountain, Super Silent Pet Water Fountain, Activated Carbon Filter, Translucent Water Tank, Suitable for Multiple Pets (H1-Black)
-
【2L Capacity, Removable And Easy To Clean Parts】 The cat water fountain has 2L (64oz), so you don't need to refill it frequently. A cat water fountain filled with water can provide your pet with 4-6 days of drinking water, making your trip worry-free. The cat water fountain has a detachable design and its parts are removable, which is very convenient for you to replace or clean.
-
【Triple Filtration System】 Pet water fountain adopt a triple filtration system, including activated carbon, high-density cotton layer and sponge filter. This can effectively filter impurities, remove odors, soften the water and extend the life of the pump. It is best if you can change the carbon filter every 2-4 weeks. This will provide your pet with cleaner, fresher, oxygen-rich water.
-
【Built-In Led Light】 The cat fountain is designed with a translucent water tank and a built-in LED light. You can check the remaining amount of the cat fountain at any time, without having to frequently open the cat water fountain. At the same time, the built-in LED light can glow in the dark, your cat can find the water fountain faster.
-
【Ultra-Quiet Energy-Saving Water Pump】 The water pump of the cat water dispenser can operate ultra-quietly (≤30dB), allowing you and your pet to enjoy a quiet sleep. At the same time, it is a 1.5W low-power pump. It consumes only 1 degree of electricity a month, which is very energy efficient and environmentally friendly. For the health of your pet, clean the pump every 2-4 weeks is better.
-
【Flowing Living Water】 This water fountain for cats inside has two water flow modes: faucet mode and fountain mode. They can meet the different needs of pets. This water fountain for cats inside can simulate the sound of water flowing from faucets and fountains. This not only encourages cats to drink more water, but also has a beneficial effect on your pet's kidney health.
-
【After-Sales Service】 GIOTOHUN provides 2 years warranty for the pump, if you have any problem, you can contact us for replacement. If you need more parts, you can buy them in our store. (Note: In order to remove the toner, the filter needs to be soaked in water for 3-5 minutes during the first use. )
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Veken Pet Fountain, 84oz/2.5L Automatic Cat Water Fountain Dog Water Dispenser with 3 Replacement Filters & 1 Silicone Mat for Cats, Dogs, Multiple Pets, Grey
-
Ultra-quiet & low consumption pump – The Veken pump is ultra-quiet (measured below 40dB) and low consumption which means that it normally lasts between 1.5 - 2 years!
-
2.5L large capacity – It has a water capacity of 2.5 liters (84 ounces), which means that it is great for small to medium sized pets. The circulation system helps provide healthy and hygienic water for beloved pets all day.
-
BPA free & quality material – Made of quality PP resin, this automatic water bowl is BPA free, durable, and it’s easy to operate and clean. Furthermore, each fountain comes with 1 silicone pad to catch splashing water from spills.
-
3 different flow designs – Veken Pet Fountain has 3 modes: flower waterfall, flower bubble, and gentle fountain. Each mode is specifically designed to meet the needs of various pets. The free-falling stream and bright color will attract curious pets to check it out.
-
Triple filtration system – The pet water fountain is equipped with 3 replacement filters, each composed of activated carbon, ion exchange resin and non-woven fabric, forming a triple filtration system to help keep your pets healthy and hydrated.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Veken 95oz/2.8L Pet Fountain, Automatic Cat Water Fountain Dog Water Dispenser with Smart Pump for Cats, Dogs, Multiple Pets (Grey, Plastic)
-
Large capacity: Staying hydrated is the key to preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases. The 95oz capacity makes this pet fountain water dispenser a perfect fit for small to medium dog breeds and all cats.
-
High-quality: Made of food grade materials, this drinking fountain is BPA free, durable, and easy to operate and clean. The water-level window and LED Light let you observe how much water your pets drink in real time, and lets you see exactly when you need to fill the water bowl. There is a switch on the wire to control the light so you could easily turn it on or off.
-
Two flow designs: The Veken Pet Fountain has 2 modes: flower waterfall (faucet drinking) and the gentle fountain. The water streaming down the petals of the flower on the fountain will draw your pets attention and encourage animals to drink more often.
-
4 stages filtration system: In addition to keeping water fresh via circulation, the 4 stages system, including coconut shell activated carbon & cotton layer, ion exchange resin and thick non-woven fabric, keeps water better tasting and safer for pets.
-
Ultra-quiet pump: The pump on this water dispenser is ultra-quiet, has low-energy consumption and will last 1.5-2 years.
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
AONBOY Cat Water Fountain, Ultra Silent Cat Fountain 67oz/2L, with LED Light, Activated Carbon Filter, Pet Water Fountain for Small Dogs
-
😽 【Quad Filtration System】The cat fountain is made of high-density cotton, coconut shell, activated carbon and ion exchange resin. It can filter out the impurities, remove the peculiar smell, soften the water quality, and improve the taste. You can provide your pet with fresher and cleaner water to prevent it from getting sick.
-
😽 【2L Large Capacity】The 2L cat fountain is very suitable for small to medium-sized pets, without the need for frequent refilling of water. Even if you are on a business trip or traveling for 3-5 days, the cat fountain can provide enough water, free your steps and make you travel worry-free.
-
😽 【Built-in LED light】 Built-in LED light and external translucent design, allowing you to monitor the water level at any time, without having to open the cat drinker each time to check if you want to add water. At the same time, the LED lights also have the lighting function, your cat can easily find the cat fountain in the dark.
-
😽 【Upgrade Water Pump】AONBOY water pump adopts the latest technology, has ultra-quiet operation (≤30dB), and 1.5W low power consumption. This means that the cat water bowl will not affect the sweet sleep of you and your pet. At the same time, energy-saving water pump is more environmentally friendly. In the long term, this will be the best cat companion!
-
😽 【3 Water Flow Designs】Flower waterfall, flower bubble, soft fountain, each water flow design can meet the different needs of pets. This toy-like design, various forms of water flow, and bold colors can encourage your cat to drink water, which is beneficial for your pet's kidney health.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Wonder Creature Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel, 81oz/2.4L Cat Fountain with Water Level Window and LED Light for Water Shortage Alert, Cat and Dog Fountain with 3 Filters and 1 Mat
-
High-grade stainless-steel top is durable, hygienic and dishwasher-safe. All in one package includes 3 carbon filters, 1 Foam Filter and 1 Mat. 3 replacement filters instead of 1. No need to purchase filters immediately. Food grade material and BPA free cat fountain is safe for your pets.
-
Upgraded pump with LED light: The pump is quiet (below 40 dB). Low-voltage pump is reliable and easy to maintain. It's very convenient to observe water level through the window. Clean the pump with the brushes regularly to increase its lifespan.
-
Circulating filtration system: The circulating filtration system uses a replaceable round filter to purify the water, remove hair, dirt and food particles plus a pre-filter sponge to catch the hair and debris.
-
3 flow designs to encourage drinking: 360° multi-directional streams aerate the water for added oxygen and freshness. A source of running water encourages pets to drink more rather than still water. 3 different drinking modes.
-
Assemble and dissemble: Wonder Creature pet fountain only takes a few minutes to set up and disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Fantasy Cat Water Fountain, 67oz/2L Automatic Cat Drinking Fountain, Pet Water Fountain with LED Light and Filter for Cats and Small Dogs (Grey)
-
Ultra-quiet & low consumption pump: The pump is whisper-quiet and stays below 40 decibels. Low-voltage pump is reliable and easy to maintain. The pump is detachable and replaceable.
-
BPA free & quality material: Wonder Creature pet water fountain is made of food grade material, which is durable, hygienic and easy to clean. BPA free cat fountain is safe for your pets.
-
Transparent fountain wall with LED light: It's easy to observe the water level through the transparent fountain wall with LED light.
-
Circulating filtration system: The circulating filtration system uses a replaceable filter to purify the water, remove hair, dirt and food particles plus a pre-filter sponge to catch the hair and debris.
-
3 flow designs to encourage drinking: 360° multi-directional streams aerate the water for added oxygen and freshness. A source of running water encourages pets to drink more rather than still water. 3 different drinking modes.
-
Assemble and dissemble: Wonder Creature pet fountain only takes a few minutes to set up and disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. The bowl and the lid are dishwasher-safe.
Can I add supplements to the water in a cat water fountain without a filter?
It is generally not recommended to add supplements or any additives directly to the water in a cat water fountain without a filter. This is because supplements may clog the fountain or affect its functioning, leading to potential issues for your cat's health. Moreover, some supplements may not be suitable for cats or could interact negatively with other substances present in the water. If you wish to provide supplements to your cat, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and method of administering them.
How does a filter work in a cat water fountain?
A filter in a cat water fountain works by removing impurities and particles from the water, ensuring it is clean and safe for your cat to drink. Here's how it typically operates:
- Filtration Media: The filter consists of a specific type of filtration media, often activated carbon or charcoal, which is known for its excellent adsorption properties. This media helps in removing odors, chemicals, and other impurities from the water.
- Water Intake: The water pump in the fountain draws water from a reservoir or external source, pulling it through the filter.
- Filtration Process: As the water passes through the filter, the activated carbon or charcoal traps impurities, such as chlorine, heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants. The porous structure of the media allows it to efficiently adsorb and hold onto these particles.
- Clean Water Output: The filtered water then flows back into the fountain, where it is made available to your cat for drinking.
- Replacement or Cleaning: Over time, the filter media may become saturated with impurities, reducing its effectiveness. Depending on the fountain model, you may need to replace the entire filter or just the filter media periodically to maintain optimal filtration. Some filters can also be cleaned or rinsed to improve their lifespan.
In summary, a filter in a cat water fountain works by removing impurities and enhancing the quality of the water your cat consumes, providing them with fresh and clean water to stay hydrated and healthy.
What are the benefits of using a cat water fountain without a filter?
Using a cat water fountain without a filter can have several benefits:
- Cost-saving: Cat water fountain filters need to be replaced periodically, which can add up over time. By eliminating the filter, you save on ongoing expenses.
- Easy maintenance: Without a filter, there is one less component to clean and replace. This simplifies the maintenance process, as you only need to clean the fountain bowl and pump regularly.
- Less hassle: Since there is no filter, you don't need to worry about finding the right replacement filter or keeping track of when it needs to be changed. This eliminates the hassle of monitoring filter status.
- Continuous flow: Some cats are more attracted to the sound and movement of flowing water rather than stagnant water. Without a filter, the water flow may be stronger and more appealing to your cat, encouraging them to drink more.
However, it is important to note that without a filter, the water may become more prone to bacteria and other contaminants. To provide clean and fresh water for your cat, you should clean the fountain and replace the water regularly.
How to maintain a cat water fountain without a filter?
Maintaining a cat water fountain without a filter can be a bit more challenging, but it is still important to keep it clean to ensure your cat has fresh and clean water to drink. Here are a few steps to maintain a cat water fountain without a filter:
- Regularly clean the fountain: Disassemble the water fountain and clean all the removable parts thoroughly with warm water and mild dish soap. Scrub all the nooks and crannies to remove any algae, debris, or buildup. Rinse them well to remove any soap residue.
- Clean the pump: The pump is an essential component of the water fountain that circulates the water. Remove the pump (following the manufacturer's instructions) and clean it separately. Use a small brush or toothbrush to remove any dirt or debris that may clog the pump.
- Clean the water reservoir: Empty the water reservoir completely and scrub it with warm water and mild dish soap. Make sure to clean all sides and the bottom to remove any bacteria or algae growth. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
- Refill with fresh water often: Without a filter, the water in the fountain can become stagnant more quickly, leading to bacterial growth. Therefore, it is important to refill the fountain with fresh, clean water regularly, ideally daily or every other day.
- Monitor the water quality: Keep an eye on the water quality and refill if it looks dirty or has an unpleasant odor. Cats may refuse to drink from dirty water sources, so it's crucial to provide them with clean water.
- Consider alternative filtration methods: If you don't have a filter, you can consider using alternative methods to improve the water quality, such as using a separate drinking water filter or adding a water conditioner to reduce bacteria growth. Consult with a veterinarian to explore other options that may be suitable for your pet's needs.
Remember, maintaining a cat water fountain without a filter requires more frequent cleaning and monitoring to ensure the water is fresh and safe for your cat to drink.
How to troubleshoot common issues with a cat water fountain without a filter?
If you have a cat water fountain without a filter, you may encounter certain issues. Here are some troubleshooting steps to help you address and resolve common problems:
- Check the water level: Ensure the water in the fountain is at an appropriate level. If it's too low, it may impede the pump's functionality. Refill the fountain with fresh water to the recommended level.
- Clean the fountain: Over time, debris, hair, and dirt can accumulate in the fountain, potentially clogging the pump or affecting water flow. Disassemble the fountain, following the manufacturer's instructions, and clean each component thoroughly using warm water and mild soap. Rinse each part well before reassembling the fountain.
- Examine the pump: Inspect the pump for any visible signs of damage or clogging. Remove the pump from the fountain, disconnect it from the power source, and clean it thoroughly. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any debris or build-up on the pump.
- De-scale the fountain: Hard water deposits can accumulate on the fountain's surfaces and affect the flow of water. To eliminate these deposits, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar, and thoroughly clean the fountain, especially around the water outlet. Rinse it well before reassembling.
- Position the fountain correctly: Ensure the fountain is placed on a level surface, as an uneven surface may cause water to flow incorrectly or unevenly. Make sure there are no obstructions around the fountain that might restrict water flow or cause splashing.
- Check for motor noise: If the pump motor is not running or is making unusual noises, it may be an electrical or mechanical issue. In such cases, it's advisable to consult the manufacturer's troubleshooting guide or contact customer support for further assistance.
- Regular maintenance: It's important to routinely clean and maintain the cat water fountain to prevent future issues. Follow the manufacturer's recommended cleaning schedule and instructions to keep your fountain functioning optimally.
If none of these steps resolve the problems with your cat water fountain, contacting the manufacturer or seeking professional assistance may be necessary.
