Our pets are among the most important things in our lives, usually a not too distant second behind our immediate family. We view them as part of the family, and since they are helpless to take care of their dietary needs it falls to us to make sure they eat and drink the right amount of food and water to stay healthy. Many people don’t realize that one thing that is no different than with people is the fact that cats and dogs need to drink plenty of water to stay healthy. If they do not, urinary tract and kidney problems can happen. This is especially true of cats, as they have history of easily developing these issues.
One way to make sure your pet gets the water intake they need is by supplying them with a pet fountain. There are many versions of these fountains, from very simple and cheap plastic bowls to some that are much more elaborate. The basic function is pretty much the same in all of them. A small pump circulates the water through a filter and out the top of the fountain. Some fountains have multiple levels for the water to work its way through on the way back down, but most have a single water fall or ramp type of design. the idea is to give the pet a few different types of water to choose from.
As far as the look of the fountain, plastic versions range from the very light weight and least expensive to much more solid and durable heavy duty plastic resin types. There are also ceramic and stainless steel pet fountains, which usually cost a little more but have some real added benefits to them.
Ceramic fountains are among the best looking, making them fit right in anywhere in your home. Some look so much like a piece of home decor that you might have guests ask you just exactly it is. Another benefit of ceramic is the fact that it is dishwasher save, making your life easier. It is also resistant to scratching, and that can help you keep it cleaner. Plastic scratches very easily, and bacteria can find a home in those scratches.
A stainless steel pet fountain is perhaps the cream of the crop, providing a very classy looking, and ultra functional pet appliance that will fit in anywhere in your home. The most popular and highly rated of these is the stainless steel pet fountain raindrop design, made by Pioneer Pet Products.
