Keeping your pet hydrated is one of the most important aspects of ensuring their overall health and well-being. Especially cats are notoriously bad at drinking water, which can lead to urinary tract issues and other health problems. One of the most effective ways to encourage your cat to drink more water is by providing them with a water fountain. And when it comes to high-end fountains, the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Cat Water Fountain is often considered one of the best on the market.
Although it comes with a premium price tag compared to simpler water bowls, its features, durability, and health benefits make it an investment worth considering. In this review, we’ll explore why the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum is one of the top choices for cat owners who want to prioritize their pet’s hydration.
What is the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Cat Water Fountain?
The PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum is a large-capacity water fountain that provides a continuous flow of fresh, filtered water to keep your cat hydrated. Its 1.3-gallon (168 oz) water reservoir ensures that your pet has access to clean, oxygenated water at all times, encouraging them to drink more.
The free-falling stream design mimics the sound and movement of natural flowing water, which many cats find more appealing than stagnant water in a traditional bowl. The fountain also includes a built-in filtration system that removes impurities, dirt, and hair, making the water not only more enticing but also healthier.
Why Cats Love the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Fountain
Cats often prefer running water over still water. This instinct comes from their wild ancestors, who associated moving water with safety and cleanliness. The PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum plays on this instinct by providing a constant stream of water, which many cats are naturally drawn to. The gentle sound of flowing water also acts as a stimulant, encouraging cats to drink more frequently throughout the day.
Key Features of the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Cat Water Fountain
1. Large Water Capacity
One of the standout features of the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum is its large 1.3-gallon capacity. This makes it ideal for multi-pet households or for owners who prefer not to constantly refill their pet’s water source. With such a large reservoir, the fountain ensures that there’s always enough water available, even if you have a busy schedule or go away for a short weekend trip.
2. Free-Falling Stream
The free-falling stream of water is the fountain’s primary feature. Not only does it keep the water in motion, which is more appealing to cats, but it also aerates the water with oxygen, keeping it fresher for longer. The adjustable flow control allows you to tailor the stream’s strength to your cat’s preference, whether they like a gentle trickle or a stronger flow.
3. Built-In Filtration System
The Drinkwell Platinum uses a charcoal filtration system to remove impurities, keeping the water clean and fresh. The filter captures hair, debris, and any particles that may fall into the water, which is especially important if you have multiple pets. The filtered water not only tastes better to your cat but also reduces the risk of urinary tract infectionsand kidney issues, as your pet is less likely to ingest harmful contaminants.
4. Quiet, Submersible Pump
One concern with many water fountains is the noise generated by the pump. However, the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum features a quiet, submersible pump that operates smoothly without disturbing the peace in your home. This feature is particularly important for more anxious cats who might be frightened by a noisy water source.
5. Easy to Clean
Maintaining cleanliness in a water fountain is crucial to ensuring your cat’s health. The Drinkwell Platinum is designed with ease of cleaning in mind. The reservoir and other parts are dishwasher safe, making routine cleaning less of a hassle. The removable reservoir also simplifies the process of refilling and cleaning.
6. Sturdy, Spill-Proof Design
The PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum has a sturdy, spill-proof design that prevents water from spilling out, even if your cat is a playful drinker. The wide base provides stability, ensuring that the fountain doesn’t tip over easily, making it suitable for even the most enthusiastic cats who might bat at the flowing water.
Pros of the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Cat Water Fountain
1. Encourages Hydration
One of the most significant benefits of the Drinkwell Platinum is that it actively encourages cats to drink more water. The free-falling stream and continuous circulation make the water more attractive, which is essential for cats that are reluctant to drink. Adequate hydration helps prevent common feline health issues like kidney disease and urinary tract infections.
2. Reduces Maintenance Time
The large water capacity means that you don’t have to refill the fountain frequently, making it more convenient for busy pet owners. It also reduces the risk of the water running out when you’re not at home. Combined with the charcoal filter, which keeps the water cleaner for longer, the Drinkwell Platinum reduces the amount of daily maintenance required compared to a regular water bowl.
3. Multi-Pet Friendly
If you have multiple cats or even dogs, the Drinkwell Platinum is an excellent choice due to its large size and water capacity. There’s plenty of water to go around, and the fountain is designed to handle multiple pets drinking from it at once without spilling or tipping.
4. Improves Water Quality
The built-in filtration system ensures that the water remains fresh and clean, filtering out dirt, hair, and other debris that could affect water quality. This is especially important for households with cats that have sensitive stomachs or those prone to urinary tract issues. By providing consistently clean water, the fountain helps improve your cat’s overall health.
5. Adjustable Water Flow
The adjustable flow control lets you customize the strength of the water stream to suit your cat’s preferences. Some cats prefer a stronger stream, while others may enjoy a gentle trickle. This flexibility ensures that the fountain appeals to a variety of different cats, making it more likely that they’ll use it regularly.
Cons of the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Cat Water Fountain
1. Higher Price Point
The PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum is more expensive than many basic water bowls or smaller fountains. While its features and benefits justify the price, it may not fit into everyone’s budget. However, if you’re looking for a long-term solution that promotes your cat’s health, the higher upfront cost is often considered worth it.
2. Filters Need Regular Replacement
Although the charcoal filter is highly effective, it does require regular replacement to ensure the water remains clean. These filters typically need to be replaced every 2-4 weeks, depending on usage. While the cost of replacement filters isn’t exorbitant, it’s something to keep in mind as an ongoing maintenance expense.
3. Takes Up More Space
Due to its larger size and water capacity, the Drinkwell Platinum takes up more floor space than smaller fountains or bowls. This may not be an issue for most homes, but if space is limited, it’s something to consider. Make sure you have enough room in your cat’s designated area for the fountain before purchasing.
Final Verdict: Is the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Cat Water Fountain Worth It?
For cat owners who prioritize their pet’s hydration and health, the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Cat Water Fountain is an excellent investment. While it comes with a higher price tag, the benefits—such as encouraging hydration, improving water quality, and reducing maintenance—make it well worth the cost. Its large water capacity, durable build, and quiet operation make it ideal for multi-cat households or busy owners who don’t have time to constantly refill water bowls.
The free-falling stream mimics natural water sources, making it more appealing to cats, and the built-in filtration system ensures that your cat has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Though the initial investment may be higher, the long-term health benefits for your pet far outweigh the cost, making the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum a top contender in the premium pet fountain market.
