Water Fountains for Cats: Helpful Hydration or High-Maintenance Headache?

Do cats really need water fountains, or is it just clever pet industry marketing? In this episode of Cat Talk Radio, Molly DeVoss dives into the science of feline hydration. Learn why cats evolved to get most of their water from prey, why dry food changes the equation, and what happens when cats don't get enough moisture. Molly explores whether cats truly prefer running water, the surprising role of biofilm in water bowl rejection, and why your cat's nose may be detecting problems long before you do. You'll also learn how often water bowls should be cleaned, whether fountain filters and UV systems actually work, the challenges of maintaining cat fountains, and simple ways to encourage better water intake. If you've ever wondered why your cat prefers the sink, ignores the fountain you spent good money on, or seems obsessed with drinking from your glass instead of their own bowl, this episode is for you.