The short answer
Most fountain problems come from water below the minimum line, a dirty pump or impeller, or a clogged filter or pre-filter sponge. Several pumps stop automatically when water runs low, such as PETKIT's dry-run protection.
Noise
- Top up the water; low water makes pumps rattle.
- Clean hair from the impeller.
- Seat the pump flat on its base.
Slime
- Wash the bowl weekly; warm rooms and wet-food eaters speed slime.
- BISSELL's HydrateWell uses an antimicrobial bowl treatment against slime.
- Stainless and ceramic are easier to scrub clean.
Weak flow or pump stops
- Replace the filter and rinse the pre-filter sponge.
- Check the pump hasn't stopped from dry-run protection.
- For cordless models, recharge the battery.
Products mentioned
Questions readers ask
Why is my cat fountain noisy?
Usually low water or a dirty impeller.
Why does slime keep coming back?
The bowl and pump need weekly cleaning, more in warm rooms.