Science & Studies

Science-Backed

The Research Behind
WhiskerWell™

We don’t just claim our fountain helps cats drink more — the science backs it up.

Dr. Whiskers

Dr. Whiskers, Chief Hydration Officer at WhiskerWell™

What Science Says
About Cat Hydration

Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm that cats instinctively prefer moving water — and drink significantly more when given a fountain.

More water consumed with a fountain vs. a still bowl
70%
Of cats increase their daily water intake with a fountain
#1
Kidney disease is the leading cause of death in adult cats — largely preventable with proper hydration

Peer-Reviewed Research

These studies support the benefits of water fountains for feline health.

1
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery — 2010

Comparison of feline water consumption between still and flowing water sources

This pilot study found that cats exposed to flowing water sources showed increased daily water consumption compared to those using still bowls.

View Study
2
PMC — National Library of Medicine — 2024

Effect of water source on intake and urine concentration in healthy cats

Measurable differences in water intake between cats using fountains versus still bowls, with direct implications for urinary tract health.

View Study
3
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

Feeding Your Cat — Hydration & Kidney Health Guidelines

Cornell recommends encouraging water intake through fountains as one of the most effective preventive measures for feline urinary and kidney health.

Read Guidelines
4
Petcube — Veterinary-Reviewed

Why Flowing Water Makes Pets Drink More

Cats have an evolutionary preference for moving water. In the wild, still water signals contamination while running water signals freshness.

Read Article
5
Walkerville Vet — Dr. Andrew Spanner BVSc

Do Cats Need A Water Fountain? The Evidence

A practicing veterinarian concludes that for cats on dry food diets, a fountain is a highly recommended preventive health measure.

Read Review

What Experts Are Saying

"Cats fed exclusively dry diets are likely to be mildly dehydrated their entire lives. Encouraging water intake through fountains is one of the most effective preventive measures for feline urinary and kidney health."
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
"Chronic dehydration in cats is directly linked to kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and bladder stones — the #1 cause of vet visits in adult cats."
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
"Cats have a low thirst drive compared to dogs. With modern dry food diets, moving water is the most effective way to encourage adequate daily hydration."
Petcube Veterinary Health Team

Science Says: Your Cat Needs More Water

Give your cat the hydration they deserve — backed by research, loved by cats.

Get WhiskerWell™ — $54.99