The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Water Fountain is praised for its 100-ounce capacity and dual-bowl design that accommodates pets of different sizes. Reviewers noted it's especially beneficial for multi-pet households and senior dogs or cats who need an elevated drinking option. The carbon filter helps maintain water freshness, and the fountain is easy to clean, though it requires regular maintenance. While some found the noise level acceptable, it's not completely silent. It's recommended for households seeking a low-profile, moderately quiet fountain that encourages hydration.
Full review
Design and Functionality
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Fountain presents a straightforward yet thoughtful approach to multi-pet hydration, featuring a dual-bowl design that accommodates pets of varying sizes. The device holds 100 ounces of water, a capacity that caters to households with multiple animals, as noted by Rover.com's reviewer who found it suitable for two dogs and two cats. The upper bowl is elevated, making it ideal for senior or arthritic pets who struggle with bending down, while the lower bowl serves smaller pets or those preferring a more conventional drinking surface. According to PetSafe's own product specifications, the fountain includes a free-falling water stream that encourages reluctant drinkers, a feature that aligns with the company's claim that 'pet fountains help your pets stay hydrated by engaging their natural attraction towards moving water.' The open bowl design ensures pets still have access to water even during power outages, a practical consideration for households with unpredictable electricity.
The fountain's construction uses BPA-free plastic, which is both durable and easy to clean. The manufacturer recommends top-rack dishwasher safety for the bowls, though the pump requires separate hand washing—a detail that some reviewers emphasized during cleaning processes. The pump operates on a submersible system and generates a low-voltage output, with noise levels described as 'not overpowering' by Rover.com's tester, though not entirely silent. The device is designed to be disassembled into two pieces for easier cleaning, a feature that was praised by multiple reviewers for its user-friendliness.
Performance and Water Quality
Water filtration and circulation are central to the PetSafe Multi-Tier's performance, with a carbon filter designed to remove odors, tastes, and debris like pet hair and drool. TechRadar's testing found that the filtration system effectively maintained water freshness throughout the day, though they noted that the filter requires replacement every two to four weeks to prevent mold growth—a maintenance task that some users found inconvenient. The fountain's pump continuously circulates water to inhibit bacterial growth, a feature that aligns with the manufacturer's claim that 'the fountain pump constantly circulates water to help prevent bacteria growth.' According to the company's support documentation, the carbon filter removes bad tastes and odors, while the constant water movement helps maximize aeration, which is essential for maintaining fresh water quality.
The effectiveness of the water flow was confirmed by multiple reviewers who reported that their pets quickly adapted to the fountain. Rover.com's tester noted that while initial reactions were hesitant, all four pets eventually became enthusiastic fountain drinkers, with the cats particularly appreciating the clean water quality. The free-falling stream was described as a key attraction for pets, with one reviewer from K9 Electronics stating that the 'free-falling stream of water encourages pets to drink more and helps prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases.' The 100-ounce capacity means that refills are only necessary every couple of days, which was appreciated by users who previously had to refresh water bowls multiple times daily.
User Experience and Setup
Setup and assembly of the PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Fountain was described as straightforward by multiple reviewers. Rover.com's tester noted that the manual's instructions were simple to follow, and the process of disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling took only about ten minutes. The fountain's modular design allows for easy cleaning, and the manufacturer recommends placing the bowls in the top rack of the dishwasher while separately hand-washing the pump. This approach was echoed by K9 Electronics' review, which emphasized that the fountain's minimal parts make it easy to clean and maintain. The device's low-voltage pump and relatively quiet operation were also noted as positives, with one reviewer from Rover.com stating that the noise was 'not overpowering' and didn't stand out in a dining room setting.
Acclimation of pets to the fountain varied, with some animals taking time to adjust. Rover.com's tester reported that initial hesitation was common, with one pet running away and others inspecting cautiously before drinking. However, after a few days, all pets became enthusiastic users. The company's support documentation includes a specific guide for acclimating pets to the fountain, which was recommended by several reviewers. The inclusion of a wall adaptor and a quick start guide further simplified the setup process, making it accessible for pet owners with varying levels of technical comfort.
What Reviewers Loved
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Fountain garnered praise for its dual-bowl design, which accommodates pets of different sizes and drinking preferences. Reviewers consistently highlighted the elevated upper bowl as particularly beneficial for senior or arthritic pets, who can drink without bending down as far. The free-falling water stream was also a major selling point, with multiple reviewers noting that it encouraged pets to drink more, which is crucial for preventing urinary and kidney issues. According to PetSafe's own marketing materials, the fountain's design promotes increased hydration, which is essential for pet health. The device's ability to keep water fresh throughout the day through filtration and circulation was also praised, with one reviewer from Rover.com stating that the fountain 'kept the water sparkling clean all day.'
The ease of cleaning and maintenance was another frequently mentioned positive. The dishwasher-safe bowls and the simple disassembly process made it convenient for users to keep the fountain hygienic. K9 Electronics' review emphasized that the fountain's BPA-free construction and minimal parts make it both safe and easy to maintain. The manufacturer's recommendation to clean the pump separately was seen as a reasonable compromise, though some users noted that it required a bit more effort than fully dishwasher-safe components. The 100-ounce capacity was also appreciated, as it reduced the frequency of refills, a benefit that was especially noted by users with multiple pets.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Fountain has several drawbacks that reviewers have identified. The most commonly cited issue is the need for regular filter replacement, which must occur every two to four weeks to prevent mold growth. This maintenance requirement was noted by multiple reviewers, including those from TechRadar, who found it to be a necessary but inconvenient task. The company's support documentation confirms this, stating that the carbon filter must be replaced regularly to maintain optimal performance. Additionally, while the fountain is relatively quiet, it is not completely silent, which may be a concern for users seeking maximum noise reduction.
The non-adjustable water flow was another point of criticism, with some users wishing for more control over the stream's intensity. The fountain's design does not allow for water flow adjustment, which may be a limitation for pets with specific preferences or those requiring a gentler stream. Furthermore, while the device is suitable for multi-pet households, it may not be ideal for large dogs that require a 1+ gallon fountain, as noted by Rover.com's reviewer. The 100-ounce capacity, while sufficient for smaller households, may not meet the needs of larger multi-pet families or those with particularly thirsty animals.
Who It's Best For
The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Fountain is best suited for multi-pet households with pets of varying sizes, particularly those with senior or arthritic animals who benefit from an elevated drinking surface. According to Rover.com's review, households with two dogs and two cats found the fountain ideal, as it accommodates both large and small pets. The device is also recommended for pet parents looking for a low-profile, relatively quiet fountain that encourages reluctant drinkers. The free-falling water stream is especially beneficial for pets that are not naturally inclined to drink water, as it mimics the natural flow of streams and springs, which many animals find appealing. The fountain's ability to keep water fresh and clean throughout the day makes it a strong choice for households that want to improve their pets' hydration habits.
The fountain is also ideal for pet owners who value convenience and ease of cleaning. The dishwasher-safe bowls and simple disassembly process make it easy to maintain, which is particularly important for households that want to avoid the hassle of frequent deep cleaning. However, it may not be the best choice for big-dog households that need a 1+ gallon fountain or for pet parents who are not willing to commit to regular filter replacements. The device's 100-ounce capacity is sufficient for most small to medium-sized households but may not meet the needs of larger families or those with particularly thirsty pets.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to other pet water fountains, the PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier stands out for its dual-bowl design and the inclusion of a carbon filter, which helps maintain water quality. Unlike some competitors that offer only single-bowl designs or lack filtration systems, this fountain provides a balance of functionality and convenience. However, some reviewers noted that the non-adjustable water flow and the need for regular filter replacement are drawbacks compared to more advanced models. TechRadar's review highlighted that while the fountain performs well in terms of filtration and circulation, it lacks features such as adjustable water flow and programmable timers that are found in higher-end alternatives.
The device's durability and ease of cleaning make it a solid investment for pet owners who want a reliable hydration solution. However, some users may find that more expensive models offer additional features such as quieter operation, adjustable water flow, or integrated LED lights that enhance the user experience. Despite these limitations, the PetSafe Multi-Tier remains a strong contender in the multi-pet water fountain market, particularly for those who prioritize functionality over bells and whistles.
Long-Term Durability
The long-term durability of the PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Fountain appears to be well-regarded by users, with the BPA-free plastic construction and minimal parts design contributing to its longevity. The manufacturer's support documentation emphasizes that the fountain is built to last, with components that are easy to replace if needed. However, some users have reported issues with the carbon filter's lifespan, particularly when used in households with multiple pets or in areas with hard water. The need for regular filter replacement, while necessary for maintaining water quality, may impact long-term satisfaction for users who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it solution.
The pump's performance over time was also noted by reviewers, with some reporting that it maintains consistent operation throughout its lifespan. The submersible pump design is generally reliable, though users should be aware of the need for separate cleaning to prevent buildup. The overall build quality, as described by multiple reviewers, suggests that the fountain is a solid investment for pet owners who want a durable, functional hydration solution. However, the device's performance may degrade over time if not properly maintained, particularly in households with high usage or pets that are prone to introducing debris into the water.
Strengths
- +Holds 100 ounces of water, sufficient for multi-pet households
- +Multi-tier design with elevated upper bowl ideal for senior or arthritic pets
- +Replaceable carbon filter helps keep water fresh by removing odors and debris
- +Top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, with separate pump washing recommended
Watch-outs
- −Water stream is non-adjustable
- −Requires regular filter replacement every 2-4 weeks
How it compares
The PetSafe Multi-Tier fountain excels in accommodating senior or arthritic pets with its dual-bowl design, a feature not found in the PetSafe Seaside or PetSafe Oasys models. However, it lacks the automatic refill function of the PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum and has a non-adjustable water stream, unlike the PetSafe Oasys which offers adjustable flow.
Who this is for
At a glance: senior or arthritic pets.
Why you’d buy the PetSafe Multi-Tier Pet Fountain Large Waterer Great for Cats and Dogs 2 Heights
- Holds 100 ounces of water, sufficient for multi-pet households.
- Multi-tier design with elevated upper bowl ideal for senior or arthritic pets.
- Replaceable carbon filter helps keep water fresh by removing odors and debris.
Why you’d skip it
- Water stream is non-adjustable.
- Requires regular filter replacement every 2-4 weeks.
Rating sources
“The PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Pet Water Fountain is a straightforward dog water fountain that holds up to 100 ounces of water.”
“The Multi-Tier Pet Fountain has an upper and lower bowl, giving pets multiple places to drink and stay happy and hydrated.”
“The Multi-Tier Pet Fountain is great for pets of all sizes because they can drink water at a height that's comfortable for them.”
“The PetSafe Drinkwell Plastic Multi-Tier Dog & Cat Water Fountain is a highly functional fountain that most pets will love.”
Our 4.4 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
