Making a filter for your cat’s water fountain is a great way to ensure that your cat is getting clean and healthy water. Cats need to stay hydrated to maintain good health, and a water fountain can encourage them to drink more water.
A DIY filter can help keep the water in your cat’s fountain clean and free of debris. It can also help remove impurities and bacteria that may be present in tap water. By making your own filter, you can save money and ensure that your cat is getting the best possible water.
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Supplies Needed for DIY Filter for Cat Water Fountain
To make a DIY filter for your cat water fountain, you will need a few supplies. These supplies include:
- Sharp knife
- Activated charcoal
- needle and thread
- Cheese Cloth
- Rubber bands
Activated charcoal is an important ingredient for your filter. It helps to remove impurities and unpleasant odors from the water. Gemstones and river stones can be added to the filter to help with the filtration process. They also add a nice aesthetic touch to your water fountain.
You will also need a cheesecloth and rubber bands to hold the filter materials in place.
It’s important to note that the type of pump you have in your water fountain may affect the type of filter you create. Be sure to choose materials that are compatible with your pump.
Overall, creating a DIY filter for your cat water fountain can be a fun and rewarding project. It allows you to customize your filter to fit your specific needs and preferences.
Steps to Make a DIY Filter for Cat Water Fountain
Here are the steps to make a DIY cat water fountain filter by cutting out the old coverings and carbon then using the following to replace them:
- Unplug the cat water fountain and remove the filter cover and filter media.
- Use a sharp knife to cut small slits on the top of the old filter and remove the carbon. Be careful not to damage the overall filter shape or it either will leak out carbon or it won’t seal and water will bypass the filter.
- It’s crucial you cut the slits on top. You want incoming water to go through the slits and push carbon down into the filter. If you cut from the other side carbon will leak out of the slits when you turn it back on.
- If your filter is shaped like the one below note that you’ll carefully cut slits in each of the 4 pods to remove the old carbon. In this example the bottom is the part facing up in the picture below and the top is the other side you can’t see. When your filter is sitting in the machine it’ll be easier to tell which side is top or bottom for your specific filter.
- Once you’ve refilled the old filter with new carbon you use a needle and thread to close the slits or you can cut a small piece of cheesecloth to cover the entire filter and prevent new carbon from escaping the slits. You’ll need to decide which method is best based on your specific filter. Cheesecloth is faster than sewing but is more likely to make a gap around the filter where unclean water can bypass.
- Sometimes you can hold the cheesecloth in place with rubber bands but often this causes a bypass gap so only use it if you must.
- Place the new filter cover and media into the cat water fountain.
- Plug the fountain back in and make sure it is functioning properly and water is going through the filter instead of bypassing around it.
Maintaining Your DIY Filter for Cat Water Fountain
Keeping your cat’s water fountain clean is essential to ensure your furry friend has access to fresh, filtered water at all times. A dirty water fountain can harbor bacteria and algae, which can be harmful to your cat’s health. Here are some tips on how to maintain your DIY filter for cat water fountain:
- Rinse the filter regularly: To keep the filter working efficiently, rinse it with clean water once a week. This will remove any debris or dirt that has accumulated on the filter.
- Clean the fountain regularly: It’s important to clean the fountain itself regularly. Use a mild detergent and warm water to scrub away any dirt or grime. Rinse thoroughly and dry before refilling with fresh water.
- Check for algae growth: Algae can grow quickly in a cat water fountain, especially if it’s placed in a sunny location. Check the fountain regularly for any signs of algae growth and clean it immediately if you notice any.
- Replace the filter regularly: The filter in your cat water fountain will need to be replaced periodically. It’s best to rebuild one every 2-3 months at a minimum and rinse it weekly.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure that your cat’s water fountain remains clean and fresh, providing your furry friend with access to clean, filtered water at all times.
Make a DIY Cat Fountain From Scratch For Easier DIY Filter Replacements
Sometimes, trying to retrofit your existing fountain with a DIY filter can be time-consuming and costly. Instead, why not just make a new cat fountain from scratch where the filter is easier, cheaper, and faster to change out.
Check out the YouTube video titled “DIY Cat Water Fountain.” This video provides an easy-to-follow guide on how to create a water fountain with filtration for your cat using materials like a flower pot, pebbles, ceramic filtration rings, activated carbon, filter pad, and a pond pump.
By following the instructions in the video, you can create a water fountain for your cat that ensures they have access to clean and fresh water.
Watch the video now and learn how to create a water fountain with filtration for your cat without breaking the bank!
Conclusion
In conclusion, providing your cat with a filtered water source is essential for their health and happiness. Dehydration is a common issue among cats, and a cat water fountain can encourage them to drink more water.
Making an easy DIY cat water fountain is a fun and affordable project that can be done with materials found at your local pet store or at a Home Depot or similar store.
There are also many DIY cat fountain plans available online to help guide you through the process that are easier to clean and change out than trying to DIY a filter.
My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks.
I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.
