Why This Comparison Matters
Cats are notoriously bad at drinking enough water. A running water fountain can increase their water intake by up to 50%. But which one should you buy? We put the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum and Catit Flower Fountain through a 2-week real-world test with 4 cats of different ages and drinking habits.📊 Core Parameters Comparison
| Parameter | PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum | Catit Flower Fountain |
|---|---|---|
| Water Capacity | 2.5L / 84oz | 3L / 100oz |
| Filtration Type | Triple-action (carbon + foam + ion-exchange) | Dual carbon filter + foam pre-filter |
| Noise Level (measured) | 32 dB (quiet) | 28 dB (very quiet) |
| Flow Settings | 5 levels | 3 flower heads (fixed) |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes (top rack) | Yes (all parts) |
| Price | $39.99 | $34.99 |
| Filter Replacement Cost/yr | $28 | $22 |
| Amazon Rating | 4.4★ (28,000+ reviews) | 4.5★ (15,000+ reviews) |
Real-World Testing
We tested both fountains in a quiet apartment over 14 days. Key findings:
- Noise: The Catit is noticeably quieter. At night, the Drinkwell's pump vibration is audible from 3ft away.
- Cleaning: The Drinkwell has more nooks and crannies. Catit disassembles into 3 flat pieces — much easier to scrub.
- Cat preference: 3 out of 4 cats visited the Catit more often. The flower design seems to attract curious cats.
- Filter longevity: Both need monthly changes. The Catit's pre-filter catches more hair, extending the main filter life.
Reddit user u/whiskertips: "Had the Drinkwell for 2 years, switched to Catit. My cat drinks way more — I think the flower petals make it fun."
Who Should Choose Which?
🎯 Verdict
After 2 weeks of testing with 4 cats, the Catit Flower Fountain is our clear winner for most households. It's quieter, easier to clean, and cats seem to prefer the flower design. The PetSafe Drinkwell is a solid choice if you need adjustable flow settings, but for the typical cat owner, the Catit offers better value and less maintenance hassle.
Check Price on Amazon →Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How often should I clean a cat water fountain?
Every 1-2 weeks. Replace the filter monthly. If you see slime or algae, switch to weekly cleaning.
❓ Do cats really drink more from a fountain?
Yes. Studies show running water can increase a cat's water intake by up to 50%. The movement and sound attract them.
❓ Are plastic fountains safe?
Both the Drinkwell and Catit use BPA-free plastic. If your cat has acne (chin bumps), consider a ceramic fountain instead.