Short answer: If your cat repeatedly lifts a fountain lid, pulls out a spout, or tips the unit, make a clean water bowl available first. Then unplug the fountain and inspect it before using it again. A fountain that will not stay assembled is not a dependable water source, whatever the reason your cat is investigating it.
A Reddit conversation about a cat dismantling a fountain prompted this guide (topic inspiration only). We do not use the post or its comments to diagnose behavior, assess safety, or support product claims.
Make sure your cat still has water
Put a familiar, stable bowl of fresh water where your cat can easily reach it. If the fountain was the only water source, leave the bowl out while you troubleshoot. International Cat Care's caregiver guide recommends offering alternative water sources and says a fountain should be introduced gradually; it also notes that cats differ in what they will drink from. Do not assume that pawing at a fountain means the cat has actually been drinking from it.
Check the unit with the power disconnected
Unplug the fountain before handling wet parts. Look for a loose top, spout, filter housing, pump cover, or other removable piece, and compare the assembly with the instructions for your exact model. Rinse and reassemble only as the manufacturer directs. If a piece no longer fits securely, stop using the fountain and ask the seller for the correct replacement or support guidance. Avoid improvised tape, clips, glue, or weights near the water and electrical parts.
Check whether the cord is accessible or has bite marks. The ASPCA warns that cats chewing electrical cords can suffer serious injury and advises keeping cords away from curious pets. If you suspect your cat chewed a powered cord, contact a veterinarian promptly; do not put a damaged cord back into service.
Watch what happens before choosing a fix
Once the fountain is correctly assembled, place it on a level surface where you can observe it. Notice which part your cat touches and whether the cat drinks from the fountain, the backup bowl, or both. Check that the unit remains stable and the water stays accessible over a normal day. If the cat repeats the behavior, switch back to the bowl while you seek model-specific help. Repeated dismantling is a practical reason to reconsider this setup; it is not, by itself, a diagnosis.
Keep the water area clean while you test. International Cat Care advises regular fountain disassembly and cleaning and filter changes according to the manufacturer, as well as fresh water and regular cleaning for bowls. Our fountain-or-bowl guide explains how to keep the familiar bowl available while comparing water stations.
When to ask for help
If your cat's drinking changes noticeably, or you are worried the cat has not had access to water, speak with your veterinarian. Cornell Feline Health Center says cats' fountain preferences vary and recommends veterinary advice when dehydration is a concern. A veterinarian can assess the cat; a seller can help confirm whether a fountain part is fitted or available.
If you are considering the PawNovi stainless steel cat water fountain, check its product page and contact PawNovi for the current assembly instructions and replacement-part details. Its online listing does not yet confirm all pump, filter, and included-part specifications. No fountain should be described as cat-proof without model-specific evidence and observation in your home.
By PawNovi Editorial Team · Published October 29, 2026. This is general pet-care information, not a veterinary diagnosis.