If you’re a cat owner, you’ve probably seen it. You turn on the kitchen sink, and suddenly your cat is on the counter, mesmerized by the stream. They might dip a paw in, try to take a sip, or just watch intently, ignoring the fresh water bowl you just put down.
This common behavior isn't just a random quirk. According to Primrose Moss, MRCVS, with Spot Pet Insurance, cats' preference for running water is rooted in their wild instincts and sensory cues.
Why do cats prefer running water?
Your cat’s preference for running water is rooted in their wild instincts and specific sensory needs.
- Instinct says fresh and safe: "In nature, running water tends to be fresher and less likely to harbor bacteria, whereas still water can become stagnant and unsafe," says Dr. Moss. This ancient survival behavior is still strong in domestic cats today.
- A better sensory experience: Cats have a sense of smell far more powerful than ours (up to 14 times), and even subtle changes in odor or taste can signal whether or not the water's worth the lick. "A bowl that smells metallic, plastic, or 'stale' might be unappealing compared to the crisp scent of running water," says Dr. Moss. Many cats also prefer their water cool, and tap water is often more refreshing than water that has been sitting at room temperature.
- Comfort and whisker fatigue: A cat’s whiskers are incredibly sensitive. "Cats prefer shallow, wide basins that don't press on their whiskers," says Dr. Moss. She explains this is due to a phenomenon called whisker fatigue. "Deep or narrow fountains can cause discomfort," she says, leading your cat to seek out a source, like a tap, that doesn't overstimulate them.
The Problem with (Some) Water Fountains
Given all this, a pet water fountain seems like the perfect solution. So why do some cats ignore the fancy fountain you just bought them?
"If your cat ignores their fancy new fountain, there are a few common culprits," says Dr. Moss.
These often include:
- Noise: "Some cats are startled by the hum of the motor or the sound of splashing water." That "loud pump" can be enough to deter a cat from approaching.
- Cleanliness: "Cats are notoriously sensitive to smell and taste". Even with regular cleaning, fountains can get "slimy inside," developing "biofilm (that slimy residue)" that contaminates the water. While it may look clean to you, your cat can tell the difference.
- Design: The fountain basin might still be too narrow. Dr. Moss notes that cats prefer shallow, wide basins that don't press on their whiskers due to "whisker fatigue." If their sensitive whiskers touch the sides, it can cause discomfort.
- Water temperature: Cats often prefer their water cool or cold. A recirculating fountain can warm the water up to room temperature, which, as Dr. Moss notes, may lead to your cat "reject[ing] water that's too warm."
This is why choosing the right fountain is so important. Our pet water fountains are whisper-quiet, easy to fully disassemble for cleaning, and made from hygienic ceramic to prevent slimy buildup. They're also wide and shallow enough for your cat to drink comfortably without their whiskers touching the sides.
Why Proper Hydration Is So Important
"Cats are not naturally strong drinkers," explains Dr. Moss, adding that "their wild ancestors got most of their moisture from prey, which makes them prone to dehydration."
When a cat dislikes its water source, it simply drinks less. This can lead to serious health issues over time and can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disease, and bladder stones or crystals.
These issues can develop quietly. "Dehydration can be subtle," Dr. Moss notes, but signs may include lethargy, dry gums, constipation, and less frequent urination. For this reason, Dr. Moss says that encouraging consistent water intake can help protect your cat's long-term urinary and kidney health.
The Most Important Takeaway
If your cat insists on drinking from the tap, the best advice is to make hydration as easy and appealing as possible. Dr. Moss advises that the single most important piece of advice is to make hydration easy and appealing. This might mean running on the tap at specific times each day, offering wet food, or mixing water into their meals to boost fluid intake.
"Whether it's a faucet, fountain, or bowl, what matters most is ensuring your cat always has access to clean, fresh water they actually want to drink."