Does your "special someone" come with four legs and a tail? Valentine's Day is a time to celebrate love in all of its forms, and what better way to show off your feline friend than by giving them a name inspired by this romantic celebration? Whether you've adopted a new cat or thinking about a future companion, Valentine-themed names can add a special charm to your fur baby. This article explores 14 cute, heartwarming names that capture the spirit of Valentine's Day, so you can find the purrfect match for your cat's personality and characteristics. 14 Valentine's Day and Love-Themed Names for Cats Valentina   (f) / Valentino (m) Valentina is a feminine form of the Roman name, Valentinus, meaning "strength" or "healthy"; while Valentino is the male derivative. A strong, elegant name associated with Saint Valentine himself, this works well for any majestic kitty! Cupid (m) The god of love, desire and attraction in Roman mythology has become an unofficial mascot of Valentine's Day. Depicted with wings and carrying an arrow and torch, Cupid is an affectionate, playful and slightly mischievous character. Amour  (u) The French word for "love" originates from the Latin word, "amor". This graceful name has been rising in popularity since 2023 for both girls and boys. Each time you call your kitty is an expression of your boundless affection! Rose/Rosy   (f) The ultimate symbol of love and romance, roses are beautiful as they are elegant. While red is most traditional, other colours carry specific meanings: pink denotes admiration, white signifies purity and yellow represents friendship. It can also be associated with rose quartz, the stone of unconditional love. Beau  (u) A name of French origin that means "handsome" or "beautiful". It's traditionally given to boys but is becoming more popular for girls as well. Either way, it's a fitting name for those pretty pussy cats. Dove (u) Doves symbolise love, purity and harmony due to their association with the goddesses, Venus and Aphrodite. They're known to mate for life, representing devotion to their partners and the promise of everlasting love. Romeo (m) One half of the iconic lovers from Shakespeare's play, this is another name of Roman origin that symbolises romance and charm with a touch of heroism. Perfect for the little chappy that melts your heart with his gentle purr. Juliet  (f) The counterpart to our Shakespearean hero, this name is of Latin, French and English origins and means "soft", "youthful" or "sky father". Romeo and Juliet make adorable names for a pair of bonded or sibling cats. Venus  (f) Not only the Roman goddess of love and beauty but the second planet closest to the sun, this is a name for felines that command attention. If you know your cat's date of birth, Venus is said to rule over the astrological signs of libra and taurus. Truffle (u)   Chocolate treats are a favourite for Valentine's gifts, often accompanied by a bottle of bubbles. A sweet, endearing name for the dark-furred kitties and those that enjoy indulging in the little luxuries of life! Cherie (f) Meaning "dear" or “darling” in French, this is often used as a term of endearment and was popular in English-speaking countries throughout the 20th century. Its rarity today adds to the name's charm, and it's ideal for your sweet and affectionate kitty cat. Darcey (u) A gender-neutral name of French and Irish origin, meaning "from Arcy" (a town in France) or "dark one". It made the UK's top 500 baby names of 2024 and was popularised by the romantic hero, Mr Darcy, of Pride and Prejudice . Teddy (m) A nickname for the Old English name, Edward, meaning "wealthy guardian"; or the Greek name, Theordore "gift of God". In relation to Valentine's Day, it could be short for the popular gift of teddy bears. A timeless, vintage name for fluffballs that love to cuddle. Lovebug (u) A species of March fly found in parts of the USA, also known as the honeymoon fly due to pairs remaining together for several days during and after mating. This is a fun, affectionate nickname for furry companions that love to be cuddled and petted. Picking a name for your pet is like picking a bouquet of flowers, with care and consideration. Whether it's a name rooted in mythology; a character from your favourite romcom or romance novel; or that celebrity (or secret, sshh!) crush, there's no shortage of inspiration when it comes to the language of love. Pet names like Sweetheart, Honey or Darling also work well - cats are pets, after all! Pairs of felines allows for even more creativity, from Cathy and Heathcliff to Morticia and Gomez. The age, personality, characteristics, appearance and coat colouring of your kitty can be inspiration, too. For more name ideas, check out these 100 Most Popular, Quirky and Unique Cat Name Ideas Does your cat have a special connection to Valentine's Day? Have you chosen another love-themed name that you want to share? Lend your inspo to other cat parents in the comments.

As someone who's had over fifty pets throughout the course of her life, I know a thing or two about loss and bereavement. Since this blog is dedicated to cats and most people I talk to are other cat owners, it was the initial focus of this very important article. However, browsing through old photos - some of which are older than me! - it occurred to me that it makes no difference whether a pet has fur, feathers or scales. Nor does it matter whether they've been in your life for a day or a decade. This is for anyone going through the pain and heartache that I, myself, am all too familiar with. In this article: In Memory Of The Grieving Process Preparing for Your Pet's Passing Mourning Pets Getting a New Companion Help and Support More Pet Bereavement Organisations Honouring Your Pet's Memory Thomas in a photo before my time! In Memory Of Thomas Cats have been a part of my life since the day I was born. I can't remember Thomas the tabby, although I'm told he wasn't too thrilled when my parents brought me home from the hospital! He died from leukaemia, and despite being too young to have developed any kind of bond, he was family and it saddens me that he was taken from us too soon. Brothers from another mother. Barney and Charlie Barney and Charlie were my earliest feline memories, although Barney - a black and white character - had a rather tragic ending when he was hit by a car on my eighth birthday. I remember standing there, crying in my neighbour's arms, staring at the lifeless body of our happy chappy. Someone had found him in the road and brought him home in a bin bag. I don't know if or how much he'd suffered as there were barely any physical signs of the accident. This was of some comfort, although I always found it uncanny how my parents had originally found Barney in the street with a broken paw before taking him in. If I was superstitious then I might say they'd only delayed his fate. Barney settled in well after being rescued as an injured kitten. I blamed the driver for many years, and if I'm honest then I still think about it now. Unfortunately, it's a risk that all outdoor cats face, but leaving him dead in the middle of the road was unforgivable. Perhaps he could have been saved, perhaps not. In the end I had to accept it, because even my young self knew that Barney wasn't coming back. Yet it's remained a deep-rooted fear ever since, and part of the reason why my current cats live indoors . Charlie cost a whopping £1 from the local pet shop! I'd lost other pets before and after Barney: hamsters, mice, gerbils, rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, lizards and birds. However, to lose an animal that was present for the first eight years of my life hit me on another level - not just in grief. Barney's death left a hole in our family unit that lingered well after his passing, and the worst part? I never had a chance to say goodbye. Charlie, our spooky black cat, lived to a ripe old age. He turned senile at around seventeen and would walk around the house wailing at everyone in his final months. It was sad to say goodbye, but perhaps because I'd already endured the shock of losing Barney, it almost seemed like a blessing that Charlie had slipped away peacefully under euthanasia. Baby George. George and Topsie Next came the arrival of George and Topsie, two grey and white quarter Persians - although George was initially Lucy before we realised he was a boy! It was my first experience with kittens but, for Topsie, it was short-lived. He was somewhat of a roamer and would disappear for days at a time, until he never came home. Is not knowing better or worse? He was a gorgeous, fluffy boy so I wouldn't be surprised if someone had snatched him - which doesn't bear thinking about. The best I could hope for was that he was living a happy life with another family somewhere. Digging through old albums, photos of our lost boy are few and far between. King George on one of his many thrones. George became the ultimate boss cat, chasing off foxes in the garden and slapping dogs ten times his size. He was my first baby, since I'd picked him out as a kitten after he decided to take a snooze in my cap. You could say he chose me! I loved all of our cats equally, but George was the closest bond I'd had with an animal - and I was a teenager by this point. While I was all attitude, he had the "cattitude" to match. He sure thought he was royalty and even had prime place at the dinner table on Christmas Day! One of Dillon and George's first meetings. George developed some problems later in life, starting with urinary stones that caused him a lot of pain and stress. It was around this time that we adopted a black and white kitten named Dillon, who was a little terror in his infancy. George fell into a bit of depression, and it was heartbreaking to see the decline in his bold personality. Things improved as he and Dillon grew to ignore each other, almost living separate lives. In fact, Dillon matured into an angel with fur and remains the most well-behaved cat I've ever had. Dillon loved spending time in the garden with family. Dillon George lived out his senior years as king of the household until his reign came to an end. He was put to sleep at home in his favourite place by the log fire with the whole family around him. He knew he was loved and he was ready to go, which in a strange sort of way, is the kindest death one could hope for. Dillon's reaction to his passing was worse than I'd anticipated, for two cats that never really cared for each other. I remember catching him peering down the stairs when the vet arrived to euthanise George, as if he somehow knew what was happening. Dillon never usually came into my room, but he kept me awake all night with the most obscure behaviour. Jumping on and off the bed, burrowing under the sheets, crawling into bags, shuffling around in corners, crying at the top of his lungs and doing everything he could to be noticed. I'd never seen him so unsettled, and I knew in my heart that he was grieving too. Dante had the degu equivalent to a stroke that left him a little wonky, but miraculously made it to an old chap before I had to have him put to sleep. In fact, this wasn't the last time that Dillon would react in such a manner. About a week before I lost my degu, Dante, he randomly climbed into Dante's cage. This might not sound like anything out of the ordinary for a predatory cat, but Dillon had lived amongst rodents all his life and never bothered a single one of them. So, why now? I knew that Dante was on his last legs, and in the back of my mind, I also knew that Dillon was trying to warn me in his own special way. Dante may not have been a cat, but he'd spent seven years as a substitute parrot perched on my shoulder. Just like my special needs bunny, Merlin, who spent half of his life living on a blanket by my side. Losing Merlin and Dante were crushing blows - and still are. Merlin, my paraplegic bunny, eventually died from organ failure. Junior the guinea pig had an abscess. Having lost many pets for many different reasons, the hardest part for me is the emptiness that's left behind - the void of silence that can only be filled with precious memories. No cries for food, the unoccupied basket in the corner and the stray toy you find six months later that brings emotions flooding back to the surface. Dillon lived as a single cat up to the age of around fifteen, when he started to deteriorate due to health conditions. Ultimately, his kidneys failed and you could say that he gave up, which led to the difficult decision to let him go. Even as an adult in my thirties, it was no less heartbreaking than losing Barney on my eighth birthday. Drax and Simba at just a few months old. Which brings us to the present day with my now six-year-old cats, Drax and Simba, who I've talked about way too much on this blog! I'm reluctant to contemplate the future too much as it's unbearable to think that, one day, they'll be another memory. Despite having been through it all before, I know that I can never be truly ready for the end. All we can do is prepare for it and enjoy each precious day of their company. Related post: My Story Abe, my nephew, was adopted by my sister and later died from cancer. The Grieving Process I started writing this article with the grieving process in mind, since there are typically several stages a person goes through before healing takes place - which applies to both animal and human losses. To me it makes no difference, since I will always regard pets as family members. Yet I realise these stages won't be the same for everyone because we process grief in different ways, and my experiences are as unique to me as yours are to you. In order to stay true to myself and this blog - which, after all, was inspired by my cats - I can only share those experiences for you to take the parts that resonate. Alice, a former family rabbit. Died of unknown causes. Grief as a whole is widely accepted and understood, but the actual process - that is, the emotions behind it - are less spoken about. This is even more true for animals as pet bereavement isn't always taken seriously by society. I think it's important to recognise some of those emotions, especially in relation to pets. Shock The shock or trauma of death has all kinds of effects on the body, even more so if it's unexpected. Feeling numb or refusal to accept the truth is a survival-based mechanism to protect the brain from being overwhelmed. Emotions will come when they're ready, but you can take this moment as a pause to prepare yourself for when reality sets in. Prince Wilbur, died during surgery to remove a bladder stone. Guilt When faced with the impossible decision to have your beloved companion euthanised, it's only natural to feel some level of guilt. Whether you're worried about acting too soon and missing out on valuable time together, or too late and risk more unnecessary suffering. I've had at least two pets die during surgery, which piles guilt on top of guilt. Maybe you caught their illness or condition too late and blame yourself for not picking up on the signs. I know from experience that cats and many other animals are experts at hiding their pain until it starts to show in their behaviour. Even then, it can be so subtle that you may not think anything of it - and by the time you get them to a vet, it's already too late. Your vet is your best friend in these situations, as they can offer advice on your pet's quality of life and the kindest option moving forwards. Rats, Jin, (above) lived to old age; Uri (below) had an abscess. Anger Anger is the most destructive attachment to grief - I certainly felt pissed off when I was presented with my sweet Barney after being killed in a hit and run. Had he been human, it would have been a matter for the police. Whether you're frustrated at a person, situation or God himself, it's a totally natural reaction. Feeling anger is not the same as acting on anger - no matter how much I wanted to punch that driver in the face. Clive, the family gecko, died from an injury. Depression Sadness knows no limits, whether you cry for a week or fall into a deeper state of depression. I know it's a cliché , but time really is the best healer. How you feel today won't be how you feel forever, but you must ask for support when it's needed. If you're currently in mourning and struggling to process your emotions, it may help to learn about the five stages of grief to understand your own reactions and that what you're feeling is healthy and normal. It's not uncommon for grief to start before your pet's passing, also referred to as "anticipatory grief". Jaffa, a senior cat adopted by my sister. Lived into his twenties before being put to sleep. Preparing for Your Pet's Passing Preparing for your pet's death is easier said than done, and not always possible if they die suddenly or unexpectedly. If your cat has a known illness and you've followed all of your vet's advice, then rest assured that you've cared for them to the best of your ability. Comfort and love is often the final gift we can give to our animal companions. When the decision is made to have pets euthanised, some owners want to be with them while others find it too overwhelming. There's no right or wrong, and all your furry knows is that they're going into a deep sleep - free of pain and suffering. Sometimes you may not get the option, as is often the case with smaller pets that are put to sleep with gas and have to be taken to another room in the clinic. Spartacus, my small but mighty hamster that died of old age after an impressive four years. I've had to make the painful decision to end a pet's life more times than I can count, and while it never gets any easier, letting go has become a process in itself. I know what to expect and I know I'll get through it - and so can you. Do you think your furry would want to see you suffering, after all the love and care you showed them throughout the course of their life? For feeding them, housing them, keeping them warm and tending to their every need? The answer, of course, is no! Googly, my goofy rabbit. Died after abdominal surgery to remove an unknown mass. Mourning Pets It's surprising to me that, in an age where pets are treated like substitute children, society is less sympathetic towards the death of animals in contrast to humans. When Great Aunt Sally dies, who you only ever saw at family gatherings over Christmas, you get a few days off work and a never-ending stream of condolence cards through the mail. When the cat that you shared a home with and nurtured for every day of its life passes over the rainbow bridge, you're lucky to get a few words of sympathy. I don't expect everyone to think of pets as family members, only to recognise those that do. For people like myself, a loner and recluse growing up, pets were the only real friends I had. They were my constant, a living and breathing part of my daily routine. They helped me through the darkest times of my life, and when they're suddenly ripped from your world, it doesn't matter whether they had two legs or four legs. The grief, the pain, the loneliness is all the same. Splinter the gerbil, adopted from my sister in his final months. Died peacefully of old age. When pain is dismissed, it leads people to suffer in silence and even question whether their emotions are valid. If this is you, I'm here to tell you in no uncertain terms that  everything you're feeling is 100% valid . For every person that says "it's just a pet" there are many others who'll tell you otherwise, but you don't have to take my word for it. According to statistics, 60% of UK households owned a pet in 2024 - of which 90% considered as part of their family. That's validation from over half of the population. Bereavement isn't limited to death, for there are other reasons why you might be separated from a furry companion. Moving to a new country, financial issues, old age or any situation that affects your ability to care for an animal can wound just as deeply. Pet hens, Star and Bluebell, died of an infection. Getting a New Companion Personally, I have mixed feelings about adopting new pets after a loss. On one hand, animals are incredibly healing, and to bring some joy back into the home after a period of hardship can be soothing for the heart. I've been in this situation myself without even realising it. After Dante died, I swore I'd never have another degu - the pain was so raw that I didn't think it'd ever get better. A couple of months later, I found myself in a pet shop being eyed up by a lonely degu, clasping his little paws together as if begging me to take him home. Of course I crumbled, and Monty was such a character that he livened the place up no end. But he wasn't Dante - in fact, they couldn't have been more different. Monty developed a growth on his back, but taking a biopsy would have caused him more suffering at an already old age. He passed away at home in his bed. If you're contemplating using another pet as a "replacement" for your deceased companion, you risk causing yourself more heartache. You must treat them as the separate and unique personalities that they are, from which you can make new memories. Furthermore, if you already have another cat then you shouldn't rush into getting a new one to keep them company. Even if they're clearly missing their companion, just like humans, they need time to adjust to the loss. Cats are territorial creatures, and too many changes at once can increase the stress they're already experiencing. The best thing you can do is offer them extra love and attention when they need it. Big Bunny was rescued from neglect. Died of unknown causes while under anaesthetic. Help and Support There are many forms of support for pet bereavement, despite the rules of society. You can find links to helpful resources in the next section, but you might consider: Websites and articles. Online forums and groups. Helplines or chat lines. Counselling. Talking to friends and family. Visiting your GP. Some might be reluctant to get doctors involved - maybe they feel silly or that it's a waste of time - but anything that affects your mental health should be taken very seriously. A doctor may offer medical support with temporary medication, or make a referral to a counsellor or therapist that specialises in pet bereavement. If a death comes unexpectedly then it's understandable that you might need more urgent support. The most important thing is not to let yourself suffer in silence when there are a wealth of people and organisations that are ready to help. If you don't try then you'll never know, and one phone call could make all the difference. My niece, Cloud, suffered with breathing problems and died in old age. Pet Bereavement Organisations Organisations like Cruse Bereavement Support , though not centred around animals, has lots of advice and supports the idea of "growing around your grief". Time is a great healer, and it's also what helps us to grow as a person. As we grow, grief takes up less space in our life. Some days might feel as raw as the day it happened, while other days you think about it less. Sometimes healing can simply mean reaching a new version of normality, whereby you can acknowledge the grief without it overshadowing every aspect of your life. As long as you're not hurting yourself or anyone else, I don't believe there should be any kind of time limit on when you should stop being upset. Blue Cross You can call the Blue Cross helpline on: 0800 096 6606 They also offer support via email and live chat, or you can join their Facebook group. Contact information can be found here: Pet Loss Support For further reading, I highly recommend this article: Time to Say Goodbye to Your Cat Buddy was adopted from a family member. He developed a lump on his eye and died soon after. Cats Protection Chat with a trained volunteer by calling the Paws to Listen service on: 0800 024 94 94 For more help, advice and bereavement stories from other pet owners, refer to the webpage: Grief and Loss I'd also like to direct you to the Cats Protection Memory Wall , where you can read stories about hundreds of kitties that changed people's lives - and even add your own memory. RSPCA Another fantastic resource, the RSPCA has a pet bereavement toolkit that includes advice and stories from pet owners just like me. Learn more here: Pet Bereavement Toolkit Merlin and Wilbur's shared urn, together in life and death. Honouring Your Pet's Memory It might seem morbid to think about what you want to do with your pet's body after they pass. For me, this is when the grief really sets in because the initial shock is over. However, it's a great opportunity to honour their memory in a way that's personal and meaningful to you. Here are a few ideas that I've found helpful: Home Burial Dedicate a sacred space in the garden where you can add something as elaborate as a plaque or simple as a rock with your pet's name painted onto it. Add a cute solar light, fairy lights or other decorations. You might want to plant a tree or flower to keep their memory alive. A physical grave where you can spend time reflecting and speaking to your lost companion can be of great comfort. Cremation A more costly option depending on the animal, but it gives you the option of scattering their ashes in a special place or keeping them with you forever. Crematoriums offer urns in various styles, or you can buy one from sites like Amazon and Etsy. You can usually personalise urns with plaques, engravings or photos in some cases. I've got several urns displayed around my home, which I'm sure my fellow pet parents will understan d! Dante's plant pot grave. Plant Pots For smaller pets like rodents, I make a DIY grave using a plant pot so I can take them with me wherever I move to. I add coloured pebbles, plaques and ornaments over the top of the soil. Many friends and family members have since adopted this unique burial method and find that it really helps. Memory Book or Scrapbook This is similar to a photo album that you can fill with precious memories of your pets. Print out all of your favourite photos so you can look back whenever you need to feel their presence. Keepsakes Parents often keep locks of their baby's hair, and the same can be done with animals. There are lots of containers you can use, from cork-topped craft jars to engraved boxes and cat-shaped pots. Some companies make specialised jewellery where you can have your pet's fur or ashes incorporated into pendants, rings and other accessories. You may also want to keep your cat's collar, blanket, favourite toy or other belongings and place them all together inside a box. Again, an online search will come up with hundreds of personalisable options or you can decorate your own. Keepsake jars with various pets' fur. Paw Prints Take a copy of your cat's paw prints with pet-safe ink pads or clay impressions, both available as memorial kits. These can be put on display in your home or added to your memory box. Artwork From portraits and photographs to personalised keyrings, mugs, cushions and decor, modern technology gives us so many options. Seeing a familiar face around the home isn't the same as your pet being in the room, but they can bring joy to your life in other ways. Tattoo If you're into body art, a tattoo of your pet's name, portrait or paw print is a permanent reminder of the bond you shared. Donation Making a donation to an animal charity gives a sense of purpose and reward, as there are still many animals on this earth that will benefit from your kindness and generosity. This is likely the hardest article I'll ever have to write, but I'm truly honoured to be able to share it. Anyone is welcome to share their own story of pet loss, either by getting in touch or commenting so we can all support each other. Let's create our very own memory board right here!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own and previously unpublished. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. Go to review ⇨ PawPoll Wireless Cat Fountain Go to review ⇨ FeelNeedy Wireless Cat Fountain I first bought a pet fountain a couple of years ago due to my cat, Simba's, obsession with drinking from taps and almost falling headfirst into the bathwater. It didn't matter how much I topped up or cleaned the water bowls that were placed strategically around the house, and Drax wasn't too interested in them either. They both seemed to have a preference for running water and, in fact, this is a survival instinct that goes all the way back to their wild ancestors. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Running water is clean, fresh and doesn't harbour as much bacteria as stagnant, smelly water - remember, cats live by their powerful noses. Next time kitty screams at you to turn on the kitchen tap - or if they're anything like mine, trying to lick the drips which is unhygienic in itself - it's not being deliberately fussy. Of course, there's also an element of fun with running water as many cats enjoy patting and playing with it. Placing the fountain onto a waterproof mat will help to protect your floor, as well as limiting the risk of any broken necks! Main benefits of a pet fountain: Fresh water 24/7. Filtered to remove fur and debris. Encourages cats to drink. Prevents dehydration. Helps to prevent urinary tract issues (infections, inflammation, crystals, bladder stones, etc). Reduces neck strain and whisker fatigue. Shop smart fountains and automatic feeders → Cats that are on a dry food diet are at a higher risk of dehydration and associated health conditions. This is due to their low thirst drive, since cats should get most of their moisture from food. Related post: How to Keep Cats Cool and Hydrated in Summer The first fountain I got was a wired plastic one with a motion sensor. Plugs and cables around cats and water isn't ideal, and plastic harbours more bacteria. The material develops micro scratches over time where germs can hide, which also contributes to feline acne. If you've ever drunk water from a plastic bottle that's been sitting around for a few days, you'll know too that it develops an unpleasant taste. To tackle both of these problems, I invested in some new and improved wireless fountains made from stainless steel, which we'll take an in-depth look at in this article. PawPoll Wireless Cat Water Fountain Features Main features of PawPoll Fountain: Anti-corrosive stainless steel. Wireless with rechargeable battery. Large capacity holds 3.2 litres. 3 hydration modes. Quadruple filtration system. Ultra quiet pump. Anti-splash design. Transparent panel to see water level. Materials and Construction The PawPoll Fountain is made from food-grade, BPA-free stainless steel with a plastic tray. Parts are easy to assemble, and the stainless steel material is dishwasher safe. The quadruple filtration system includes non-woven fabric, activated carbon, ion value and a sponge that slots into the pump to effectively remove hair and impurities. Instructions advise changing filters every 14 days using the official filters (which aren't always in stock). They're not cheap either, so I usually make them stretch for a bit longer by regularly washing off any gunk that gets stuck to the top - again, this depends on your cats and how many are using the fountain! The transparent front panel allows you to monitor the water level, but you can't really see it until the LED light comes on when the water is actively flowing. Capacity and Power The PawPoll Fountain is suitable for multi-cat households thanks to its 3.2l capacity, which is ideal if you're going away or putting your cat into boarding. Depending on how much your cats drink, I recommend changing the water on a weekly basis. With no need for a plug (unless charging) the fountain can be placed anywhere in the home, which is super convenient. The battery takes 5-6 hours to charge and is supposed to last 60 days, based on being in sensor mode for one household cat. For reference, I use the timer mode and the battery lasts for about a month, which is still good. Hydration Modes Sensor - reaches to a width of 140 ° and automatically flows for 6 seconds when a cat approaches within 1.5 metres. Timer - dispenses water for 15 seconds at intervals of 15 minutes. Continuous - constant water flow but needs to be connected to a power supply. The PawPoll Fountain uses a 1.5 W energy-saving water pump, designed to be ultra quiet at less than 25 dB. It still makes a humming sound, but coupled with the anti-splash dome, it reduces the sound of trickling water which some owners might appreciate. Review Despite Simba's tap obsession, I learned from my original plastic fountain that the sudden splurge of water when triggered by the motion sensor can be rather off-putting. If you have a wimpy cat like mine then it may cause them to run away, so I chose PawPoll especially for the "anti-splash" design. It does the job but still took a while for Simba to get used to, and a minor drawback of the dome is that it takes up space in the water dish. I use the timer mode so there's less chance of the flow starting when he's drinking, but this is more of an issue with my cat than the product! I also found that the sensor was getting triggered every time someone walked across the room, so you might want to place it in an area where there's less traffic. Drax isn't bothered by the sensor and enjoys drinking from the stream. The dish has a lip around the top that helps to prevent water from splashing over the edges; however, it's easy for cats to knock since it just sits on top of the filter tray. This is only an issue if your cat pulls it which, for reasons unknown, Drax does continuously. Another point to note is that despite being stainless steel, the tray that the filter sits in is plastic and slots between the drinking dish and bowl. This is easy to miss in the product details but you'll find that many fountains have the same design. Those that are 100% stainless steel usually come with a higher price tag. Having said that, water doesn't sit in the plastic area for too long so it shouldn't make much difference. Compared to plastic fountains that can get a lot of slime and algae build-up, especially during the summer months, I haven't encountered this problem with stainless steel. Visit As mentioned, the battery lasts for around a month on timer mode and the flashing red light lets you know when it needs charging. The wire is protected with cord material and slots into the USB port in the back of the battery unit. Cats can still use the fountain while it's charging. The product comes with a handy cleaning brush and instructions on how to clean the pump to keep it functioning properly. This is fairly easy and can be done in just a few minutes. What Customers Say PawPoll Fountain is praised for its long battery life and quiet operation. It's simple to set up, well constructed and easy to clean. Some users mention that the trickling sound from the water spout attracts cats so they remember to drink, and the large capacity lasts a long time even with 2 cats. While the sensor works well intitally, there are reports of it failing over time. In some cases, replacement fountains have been provided by the company if it hasn't exceeded the warranty. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 700+ Amazon reviews. FeelNeedy Wireless Cat Water Fountain *This review is for the stainless steel version. Features Main features of FeelNeedy Fountain: High-grade 304 stainless steel. Wireless with rechargeable battery. Large capacity holds 4 litres. 3 hydration modes. Multi-layer filtration system. Ultra quiet pump. Filter replacement alert. Transparent panel to see water level Materials and Construction The FeelNeedy Fountain is made from high-quality 304 stainless steel with a plastic tray for the filters. The multi-layer filtration system includes filter cotton, activated carbon, ion exchange resin, a large sponge as well as a smaller one that slots into the pump. This gives it an extra layer of purification, with large filters to ensure every sip is clean and fresh. Additionally, the replacement filter light comes on when filters are due to be changed. Again, I usually make them last a little longer - you can turn off the warning light by holding down the button for a few seconds. Spare filters come in a pack of 6 or 10 and are usually cheaper than the PawPoll filters. The water level can be monitored through the transparent front panel that lights up when the fountain is actively flowing. Capacity and Power The FeelNeedy Fountain has a slightly higher 4-litre capacity with a 210ml drinking dish, providing enough water for multiple cats to drink from. When filled, it's supposed to last 2 weeks for a single cat. The fountain itself is a little higher than PawPoll so may benefit elderly cats by putting less strain on the neck. With its cordless design, the fountain can be placed anywhere in the home and only requires a power supply for charging. The battery provides up to 45 days of fresh water on a full charge, which I've found to be quite accurate on timer mode. Hydration Modes Sensor - water automatically flows for 6 seconds when a cat approaches within 1.5m.   Timer - dispenses water for 15 seconds at intervals of 15 minutes. Continuous - constant water flow when connected to a power supply. The advanced pump operates at a sound level of 35 dB which, though technically higher than PawPoll, I think it's actually quieter. Review It's worth noting that the FeelNeedy Fountain is available in several designs. As well as the stainless steel version, you can choose from black or white plastic at a slightly lower cost (only the drinking dishes are stainless steel). The FeelNeedy Fountain is surprisingly quiet, even without the anti-splash feature. This is probably due to the water spout being lower down, so it functions like less of a tap and more of a gentle stream. This is much preferred by Simba, but it might be less engaging for playful cats that like to splash around. I keep the fountain on timer mode, again due to the sensitivity of the motion sensor. The deeper drinking dish holds a good amount of water, which is beneficial for multiple cats - especially as Simba always decides that he wants a drink at the same time as Drax because he's bratty like that. The dish also clips down so it can't be pulled off, much to Drax's annoyance! The only negatives are that there's no lip so water tends to splash over the sides; and no minimum/maximum water guides on the inside of the bowl. The battery light flashes red when it needs charging via the USB cable, and there's also a warning light on the pump when the water gets too low so you know when to refill it. The product includes a cleaning kit for the pump that consists of a brush and tweezers to remove the fiddly parts. What Customers Say The FeelNeedy Fountain has been approved by both cat and dog owners, who are impressed with its battery life, quiet operation and easy maintenance. It encourages cats to drink and the stainless steel helps to keep the water cool and fresh. Functionality receives some mixed reviews, with a few customers reporting that the pump stops working and the battery fails after a few months. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 8,000+ Amazon reviews. Summary These are both good fountains that are sturdy enough not to be knocked over, as you might find with more lightweight plastic designs. FeelNeedy is a more expensive option, which shows in the large capacity; overall build and extra features (such as the filter replacement light). I've also found that it doesn't get as much limescale build-up as PawPoll; however, it is more prone to water spots. These can be removed with regular wiping so they don't get a chance to permanently mark the steel. I descale fountains every few months to keep them looking new. In the long-term, FeelNeedy may work out cheaper with the lower cost filters. However, PawPoll is still a worthy purchase! Refer to the chart below for a brief comparison guide. PawPoll Fountain FeelNeedy Fountain Stainless Steel ✓ ✓ Wireless ✓ ✓ Capacity 3.2 litres 4 litres Filter Replacement Light ❌ ✓ Hydration Modes 3 3 Filtration Layers 4 5 Low-Water Level Warning ❌ ✓ Have you made the upgrade to a stainless steel water fountain? Do you own either of these products or think you've found a better alternative? Share your recommendations in the comments.

About Cat Mum Journal Qualifications FAQ Welcome to CMJ, otherwise known as Cat Mum Journal! Just like a scrumptious can of meaty chunks in jelly, what you'll find here is pretty much what you see on the tin. My name is Rachel, and I originally started this blog to document a sudden phase of inter-cat aggression between my sibling cats, Drax and Simba - which, to be honest, was a means of maintaining my sanity during one of the most stressful periods of my life. Read more in My Story Over the following months, I spent every spare minute of every day gathering every piece of information I could find. What I learned is all here on this site - and more! It became increasingly apparent that behavioural problems like aggression are a common occurrence in domestic cats. When people started to reach out to me and share their own stories, I knew I had to do more. When it comes to cats, knowledge really is power. So, I took the plunge and enrolled in some online courses, first and foremost to better the lives of my cats. I actually enjoyed it and, what's more, I was pretty good at it. There's already a wealth of freely accessible information online from vets and specialists alike, but what I struggled to find were personal experiences. A good example of this is the separation and reintroduction process for fighting cats. What any behaviourist will tell you is the equivalent to a tailor-made cake recipe. You have the ingredients, the instructions, the baking time - yet if ten people followed the exact same recipe, each of their cakes would turn out differently, with a variety of textures, flavours and colours. I'm sure I don't have to point out that the health and wellbeing of animals is a far cry from The Great British Bake Off , but I'm going to add a disclaimer anyway. My point is that, sometimes, nothing can prepare us for an experience better than the experience itself. What makes this blog unique, I hope, is that a lot of the topics covered are personal to me, whether through my own circumstances or those of friends and family members - clearly, I come from a clan of cat lovers! This extends to reviews and recommendations, where I use my own product photos and feedback, wherever possible. Subjects I'm most passionate about are feline behaviour and psychology, with a special interest in stress and aggression. This in itself has forced me to expand my knowledge base to other areas in order to fulfil my cats' individual needs and requirements, including but not limited to: feeding, territory, exercise and play. Of course, I also blog about animal-related causes that I strongly believe in - if this isn't the platform to raise awareness than what is? I don't offer quick fixes or miracle cures, but I do have the honour of connecting with other parents and sharing experiences to further understand why our cats do what they do. Remember, the uncooperative and, at times, unpredictable nature of our feline friends continues to challenge the minds of scientists to this day. Cats are complex, unique and intelligent creatures, which is why they make for such a fascinating blog. Not everyone "gets" cats, but their ability to develop a deeply spiritual bond with their human companions is worth exploring. The information on this site is intended for guidance only, based on personal research and experiences to help improve the relationship between humans and cats. It's my genuine aim to explore some of the issues cats face so you can seek the best solution for your furry companion. This could simply be passing on information to your vet to give them a better understanding of your cat's symptoms, for which they can arrange the necessary tests to rule out illness or disease. They may also refer you to a specialist, behaviourist or other appropriate person. While I'm happy to offer support with any issues you might be having, I kindly ask that no one contacts me for an official diagnosis or treatment/medication for their cats. If you suspect your cat has a health problem, be it physical, emotional or psychological, it's your responsibility as an owner to seek advice from a professional. The only person qualified to advise on medical conditions is a registered veterinarian . If you have any questions about CMJ or myself then I encourage you to use the contact form or check out the FAQs below. You're welcome to subscribe for blog updates, or you can follow me on Ko-fi for some special perks (and make a donation if so inclined!). Here are some other pages you might want to check out: Promotions Page : Keep an eye on special offers, discount codes and more from big and small pet care brands. Resource Page : A handy list of trusted cat-related websites and articles that might be of interest. Thank mew so much for sniffing by! Qualifications I have accredited diplomas in the following subjects: Feline Behaviour and Psychology Feline Anxiety Feline Anatomy and Physiology Feline Nutrition Feline First Aid Animal Communication I'm thrilled to announce that I recently won the 2025 Highly Commended Award in Pet Care from Centre of Excellence. FAQs Do you accept third party contributors/guest bloggers? I'm the sole writer for CMJ but may consider enquiries for related content in the areas of feline health, behaviour, psychology or nutrition. If you're a qualified vet, veterinary nutritionist or behaviourist, do get in touch to discuss! What is your review policy? I try to do as many "tried-and-tested" reviews as possible, using my own original photos and choosing products that I genuinely believe will benefit cats. Where this isn't possible, I base recommendations on a combination of extensive research, customer feedback, overall quality and word of mouth - if, for example, someone I know personally mentions a great product. Unfortunately, cat stuff gets expensive - and it can take up a lot of space! While I'm unable to review every single cat product out there, if you're a maker or seller and want to be featured on the blog, you can get in touch for consideration. Please refer to the official Review Policy . Can I advertise on CMJ? If it fits in with the content and adds value to the blog, I may be able to offer advertising space. Please get in touch to discuss your requirements. Got a cat-related question or want to know more? Get in touch! I love hearing from animal charities and welfare organisations, too.

I am not affiliated with any of these organisations, nor is this site endorsed by them in any way. Websites for Cat Owners Some trusted websites that have helped me and thousands of cat owners. Cats Protection General help and advice. Also visit the Cats Protection blog . Blue Cross General help and advice. International Cat Care General help and advice. Jackson Galaxy Everyone's favourite cat daddy and feline expert. Dr Michael W Fox Cat health, behaviour and nutrition. CatInfo Feline health and nutrition. Caticles Raw feeding tips and advice with homemade recipes. Articles Helpful articles on various topics. PDSA: First Aid for Pets PDSA: Cats and Fireworks Cats Protection: List of Dangerous and Cat-Safe Flowers Cats Protection: List of Dangerous and Cat-Safe Indoor Plants GoCompare: A Guide to Travelling and Travel Insurance with Pets Cats Protection: Finding a Good Cat Behaviourist Please check back regularly for updates to this page!