PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain: My honest review

What's good about the PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain

After testing some of the best pet water fountains, I think the PetSafe Outlast is one of the top corded devices on the market. Here's everything I love about it:

I. It's quiet
Other than the relaxing sound of running water, this fountain is super silent and doesn't have the annoying droning noise that many of its competitors do. So, if you have an anxious cat, they're less likely to be scared to use it, and you won't have to worry about it keeping you up at night either.

2. It's easy to use
Basic isn’t always a bad thing – I’ve tested a range of pet fountains, and this is by far the easiest to use. You don’t need to remember to charge a battery or figure out complicated settings – simply plug it in and go.

3. You can monitor your cat's water intake
A cat not drinking could be a sign of a health condition that needs your attention, so we always recommend keeping an eye on their intake regularly. I've tested fountains that send a notification to your phone whenever your cat drinks, but this one relies on a good old-fashioned window you can track by eye – saving you from taking off the lid each time or getting constant messages.

4. It holds a good amount of water
Containing up to 90 oz of water (more than the average cat fountain), you won't need to constantly top it up. And since it holds that little bit extra, it can also be used for small dogs (though it's important to give them their own separate bowls if you live in a multi-pet household).

5. It's dishwasher-safe
If you hate washing up as much as I do, you'll be pleased to hear that this fountain is dishwasher-safe.

PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain: Specs

PetSafe Outlast Cat Fountain: User experience

The design might be basic, but that's what makes it incredibly user-friendly. I've tested fountains that need charging regularly or that randomly stop working because of a technical issue, but that's not something I need to worry about with this fountain.

Unlike my cats' traditional bowl that quickly builds up debris and grime, this provides them with fresh, filtered water that's probably a lot more appetizing to them – and better for their health!

PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain: Setup

It doesn't take long to set up this fountain; you'll have it up and running in under 10 minutes and the instructions are relatively easy to follow. The device comes with one filter, a quick start guide, a USB power cable, and a wall adaptor.

Instructions:

1. Place the bowl on the fountain base
2. Rinse the filter, then insert it into the slot at the front of the tower
3. Place the spout into the tower and the cone into the stem
4. Place the lid on the tower and rotate it clockwise
5. Put the tray into the bowl, fill it up with water, and replace the tray
6. Connect the fountain to the USB cable (ensure your hands are dry)

How to Assemble and Clean Your PetSafe®Outlast™ Pumpless Pet Fountain - YouTube

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PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain: Design

The biggest downside of this device is that it's corded, which doesn't look as sleek in your home and makes it more of a faff to move around if needed. Since it holds more water than other cat fountains, it also comes with a bigger size, which looks a bit clunkier than other models I've tested.

While it doesn't look as easy on the eye, it saves me from having to remember to charge it and means my cats constantly have fresh water, instead of waiting for it to be fully charged again. The larger size also means I don't have to top it up as often and makes it suitable for small dogs too.

PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain: Value for money

If you compare this fountain to similar models on the market (like this one from Amazon, which costs under $40), it does seem a tad overpriced at $80, especially given that it doesn’t have any fancy features and is made from plastic.

However, PetSafe is a reputable brand I’d trust, and they also offer a one-year guarantee for peace of mind.

PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain: Verdict

If you're looking for a basic design from a trustworthy brand, the PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain is well worth your money. It's straightforward to set up and maintain, and you won't be bombarded with app notifications or have to remember to charge it constantly.

PetSafe Outlast Pumpless Cat Water Fountain alternative

Enabot ROLA Smart Pet Water Fountain | Amazon
This cordless fountain lets you monitor the water and battery levels and notifies you when it needs cleaning or the filter replaced. Our tester, Adam, found it to be "extremely quiet" and was impressed by the long 60-day battery life. Want to learn more? Read our full review.

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Read next: Why cats love running water and how long cat can go without drinking

Tested by

Tested by

Megan Milstead

Megan Milstead has been a Staff Writer at PetsRadar since 2023, covering deals, buying guides, reviews and features. She has four cats named Chilli, Nala, Tofu and Polpetta who love working alongside her (and testing out the best products). She holds a Journalism degree from the University of Westminster, an extended diploma from West Herts College, and is currently completing an online course in cat and dog behavior from the University of Edinburgh.

Edited by Georgia Guerin.