What kind of water should I use in a cat fountain, and how often should I change it?

Tap water, filtered water, mineral water: which one should you choose for your cat's fountain? And how long does the water stay clean? Here are the clear answers.

What kind of water should you put in your cat's fountain?

Tap water is suitable in the vast majority of cases

This is the most direct answer: yes, tap water is perfectly suitable for your cat's fountain. It is controlled, potable, and sufficient to ensure good daily hydration.

In some regions, tap water is particularly hard. An excess of calcium and magnesium can promote the formation of urinary stones in cats, who are naturally susceptible to them. If you live in a hard water area, it may be useful to adapt your approach.

The other point to consider: chlorine. Cats have a much more developed sense of smell than we do, and water that smells of chlorine can discourage them from drinking. A simple tip: let the water sit for a few hours in a carafe before filling the fountain. Chlorine naturally evaporates.

What about filtered water?

This is a very good option, especially if your tap water is hard or if your cat is snubbing its fountain. A filter pitcher reduces limescale, chlorine, and impurities while retaining essential minerals. The result: softer, more palatable water, and better for your cat's urinary health in the long term.

Most stainless steel fountains already include an integrated activated carbon filter. This filter neutralizes odors, retains impurities, and improves the taste of the water. This is one of the reasons why filtered fountains are recommended for sensitive cats.

Is bottled mineral water a good idea?

Not necessarily. Some mineral waters are too rich in sodium and minerals for cats' kidneys. If you want to use bottled water, opt for low-mineralized water like Volvic or Mont Roucous. In most households, tap water, possibly filtered, remains perfectly sufficient.

To remember: plain tap water or filtered water is the right choice for the vast majority of cats.

How often should you change the water in the fountain?

The basic rule: every 2 to 3 days

Even if your fountain is equipped with a filter, the water does not stay clean indefinitely. The filter slows down bacterial proliferation and retains impurities, but it does not replace regular renewal. In practice, change the water at least every 2 to 3 days.

In summer, shorten this period: heat accelerates bacterial growth and evaporation. In hot weather, daily renewal is preferable. If you have several cats, the more the fountain is used, the faster the water becomes loaded with hair, kibble residue, and saliva.

Thorough cleaning once a week

Changing the water is not enough. Once a week, completely disassemble the fountain, reservoir, bowl, and pump, and clean each element with warm water and a mild product. Approximately every two weeks, cleaning the pump is necessary to prevent the accumulation of limescale and biofilm.

If your water is hard, occasionally place the elements in a mixture of cold water and white vinegar (50/50). This is the most effective natural descaler to preserve the pump and extend the life of the fountain.

And the filter, when should it be changed?

The filter has its own replacement frequency, distinct from water changes. As a general rule, plan for replacement every 2 to 4 weeks depending on the type of filter, the water quality in your region, and the number of cats using the fountain.

A saturated filter no longer filters and can release accumulated impurities into the water. Your cat often detects this before you do: if it snubs its fountain for no apparent reason, start by checking the filter's condition.

Our replacement filters are designed to fit all our Liore fountains. Remember to have some in advance; monthly changes are easy to anticipate.

Summary: the right actions at the right time

Action	Recommended frequency
Type of water to use	Tap (or filtered if water is hard)
Water change	Every 2 to 3 days (daily in summer)
Complete fountain cleaning	Once a week
Pump cleaning	Every 2 weeks
Filter change	Every 2 to 4 weeks

A well-maintained fountain with suitable water is the basis for good hydration and the best prevention against urinary and kidney problems to which cats are particularly exposed.

All our fountains come with an included filter and a 2-year warranty. Free delivery from €40.