Cleaning a cat water fountain is essential for your pet’s health. Over time, fountains can develop a “slimy” film (biofilm) and mineral buildup that makes water unappealing and unhealthy.
Here is a simplified guide on how to keep your cat’s fountain fresh and clean.
Which Water is Best?
The type of water you use affects how often you need to clean the fountain.
- Tap Water: Contains minerals like calcium and chlorine. This leads to hard white scales (buildup) very quickly.
- Distilled Water: Prevents mineral buildup entirely, but it lacks the natural minerals that are good for your cat’s health. It is also more expensive.
- Filtered Water (Best Choice): Using a Reverse Osmosis (RO) filter or a pitcher filter is the best middle ground. It reduces buildup while keeping the water tasting fresh.
Safe Cleaning Solutions
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, which can be dangerous for cats. Instead, use these natural alternatives:
- White Vinegar: The best tool for the job. It kills germs and dissolves hard water spots.
- Lemon Juice: Works similarly to vinegar for breaking down grime.
- Baking Soda: Good for scrubbing away stains, though it is less effective on hard water scales.
- Hot Water: Great for sanitizing stainless steel fountains (but avoid boiling water on plastic parts).
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Guide
For the best results, give the fountain a deep clean once a week.
1. Disassemble the Fountain
Unplug the fountain and take it apart completely. Remove the pump and the filters. Discard old filters if it is time for a replacement.
2. Soak in Vinegar
If you see “slimy” green or pink buildup:
- Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar or soak the parts in a bowl of vinegar and water.
- Let it sit for at least 30 to 60 minutes. This breaks down the slime and minerals without heavy scrubbing.
3. Scrub the Gunk
Use specialized brushes (like those found in aquarium or bottle-cleaning kits) to reach small corners and the inside of the pump.
- Plastic Fountains: Scrub gently with a sponge. Scratches in plastic can hide bacteria.
- Stainless Steel: You can scrub harder here to remove stuck-on spots.
- Ceramic: Use a soft cloth or plastic mesh to avoid scratching the glaze.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse every part with warm, clean water until the smell of vinegar is gone. Your cat’s sense of smell is very strong, so make sure no residue is left behind.
5. Dry and Reassemble
Dry the parts with a clean cloth. You can use a blow-dryer on a cool setting for hard-to-reach spots. Put the fountain back together with a fresh filter and clean water.
Tips to Prevent Slime
- Change water daily: Don’t just top it off; dump the old water and add fresh water every day.
- Keep it out of the sun: Sunlight encourages algae and slime to grow faster.
- Use a mat: Keep the fountain on a clean silicone mat to prevent dust and hair from getting sucked into the motor.
