Easy Guide to Make a DIY Pet Water Fountain for Cats or Dogs

Does your cat or dog drink enough water every day? Fresh, running water can make a big difference. Pets like moving water more than still bowls because it feels clean and fun. Store-bought pet fountains cost a lot, but you can make one at home for cheap. This DIY pet water fountain is simple, safe, and takes less than 30 minutes.

It’s great for cats who love to paw at streams or dogs who slurp loudly. No fancy skills needed—just basic items from a store or online. Your pet will stay hydrated, and you’ll feel good about saving money and recycling household stuff. Plus, it’s a cute addition to any room!

Why Make a DIY Pet Water Fountain?

Running water keeps germs away better than a plain bowl. Cats and dogs get excited by the bubble or flow, so they drink more. This project uses a small pump to create gentle movement without noise. It’s perfect for indoor use, like near the kitchen or pet bed. Customize it with colors or themes to match your home.

If you have fish tank parts lying around, even better—repurpose them! This fountain works for one pet or a small group, and it’s easy to clean weekly.

Materials Needed

Gather these simple items. Most cost under $20 total:

• A watertight bowl (ceramic or plastic, 8–12 inches wide and 4–6 inches deep; big enough for your pet’s head)
• Small fountain or aquarium pump (submersible, with adjustable flow; 5–10 gallons per hour for quiet action)
• Decorative rocks or pebbles (smooth, non-toxic; 1–2 pounds to cover the bottom)
• Remote control outlet switch (optional, for easy on/off from afar; plugs into a wall socket)
• Clean water (tap or filtered)
• Optional extras: Plant pot saucer for a base, colorful LED lights for fun glow, or pet-safe paint for the bowl

These keep everything safe and pet-friendly. Check the pump cord is short to avoid chewing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set Up the Water Pump

Start by picking a spot for your fountain, like a table or floor away from wires. Fill the bowl halfway with water to test. Place the pump inside, cord out. Point the nozzle up—this creates a bubbling effect. For cats, center it for easy lapping.

For dogs, off-center so they can drink without splashing. Plug it in and turn on. Adjust the flow knob to low for a soft stream. If it’s too strong, water might spill. Let it run for a minute to check for leaks. Dry any drips right away.

2. Add the Decorative Rocks

Rinse the rocks well to remove dust. Layer them around the pump, starting at the bottom. Build up so the nozzle hides but peeks out at the top—about 1–2 inches above the rocks. This hides the tech and makes it look natural, like a mini stream.

Press gently to settle them. For cats, add a few larger stones for paw play. Dogs might like smoother pebbles to avoid mess. If rocks shift, use a bit of aquarium gravel glue (safe for pets). Now it looks pretty and invites your pet to explore.

3. Fill with Water and Test

Pour fresh water slowly until it covers the rocks by 1 inch. Don’t overfill—leave space for movement. Turn on the pump again. Watch the flow: It should bubble gently without flooding. If you have the remote switch, plug the pump into it for hands-free control. Test for 5 minutes. Taste the water yourself— it should feel cool and clean. Refill daily or when low. Pro tip: Use filtered water to prevent buildup.

4. Place and Introduce the Fountain

Put it in a quiet, cool spot your pet likes—near food but not too close to litter. For indoor use, add a waterproof mat underneath. Turn it on when your cat or dog is nearby. Sprinkle treats around to draw them in.

They might sniff first, then drink. If shy, run it during playtime. Clean weekly: Unplug, rinse rocks, wipe the bowl, and soak the pump in vinegar water.

Fun Variations and Tips

Make it yours! For a cat version, add catnip-scented herbs near the edge. For dogs, use a bigger bowl for sharing. Try a two-tier setup: Stack bowls with tubing for a waterfall look (extra pump needed). Add solar lights for night glow. Budget tip: Shop garage sales for pumps.

Safety matters most. Supervise at first—pets might chew cords. Use grounded outlets and keep away from kids. Choose BPA-free bowls. If your pet has health issues, ask a vet.

This DIY fountain is a game-changer—your pet drinks more, and you get peace of mind. It’s quick, cheap, and full of love. Give one to a friend with a new puppy! Share your pet’s reaction in the comments. What breed is yours?

Images are taken from hearthandvine.com