How to Prevent Slime in Pet Water Fountain?

Table of Contents:
What Is Slime on Pet Drinking Fountain?
Benefits of Getting Rid of Slime in Cat Water Fountain
How to Prevent Slime in Pet Water Fountain?
LAIKA Aqua Pet Water Fountain – Super EASY!
What Is Slime On Pet Drinking Fountain?
Slime from pet water fountains is more than an obnoxious annoyance. Generally, Pet water fountain slime is a “bacterial biofilm” that develops when certain microorganisms form an attachment to the object's surface by secreting a slimy, glue-like substance. In an easy explanation, slime is produced as protection by bacteria from cleaning chemicals.
Where Does It Come From?
Biofilm can be found on almost any surface, including metals, ceramics, plastics, natural materials (like rocks), kitchen counters, hot tubs or in bathrooms, and on and on. Indeed, anywhere there is a surface with the combination of moisture, nutrients, biofilms will probably be found. Bacteria in your pet water fountain feed on microscopic particles deposited in the water from saliva, as well as food particles, dropped into the water by a drinking cat or dog. Thus, a pet water fountain is likely to have slime on its surface.
Benefits of Getting Rid of Slime in Cat Water Fountain
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Keep water refreshing
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Prevent bacteria from threatening pet's health
As mentioned above, slime actually is a biofilm of bacteria. If not being cleaned out on time, and taken in by our furry animals, it can cause tons of health issues. Including kinds of infections, severe gastrointestinal issues caused by e.coli and Salmonella bacteria, dental issues, kidney disease, etc.
Cleaning slime from the pet water fountain regularly can definitely help to provide a safe drinking source for furry animals.
How to Prevent Slime in Pet Water Fountain?
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Clean the Fountain Once a Week
Clean your pet water fountain frequently is essential. This may sound like a no-brainer, but it deserves to be mentioned. Pet water fountain slime is mainly found on the water tank's surface, especially the corners, where it may get ignored. Thorough cleaning is one of the best ways to control the pet water fountain slime. Things that can help you to clean:
- Baking Soda
- Mild Detergent
- Diluted Vinegar
Note: Wash it thoroughly after using cleaning product, if there are any allergies to your cat, please stop and clean the fountain with plain water.
For thorough cleaning, every part that water flows through needs to be rinsed one by one. Other parts outside the tank need a regular wrap to reduce the chance of dust getting into the water.
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Change the Water At Least Once a Week
Pets are likely to drink after having food. Food particles can be quickly deposited into the water due to their drinking habits. That's how bacteria get nutrients to form slime. Large objects can be seen with naked eyes, but what about those that can’t be seen?
Changing water is the most successful strategy because all the “things” will be cleared out. You may change the water once a day. It may seem overkill, but the work is worth it. Frequent changing may allow you less cleaning (but still needed).
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Change the Filter Every 3-4 Weeks
Most pet water fountains are equipped with filters. These filters are to purify the water quality by removing residues from getting into the water. Without any doubt, filters play a significant role in water quality.
While a filter with hair debris or dust particles, the filter may fail to filter. Or worse, the filter itself becomes the bed of bacteria. Most sellers recommend the filter to be replaced every 3-4 weeks; the frequency depends. A big pet family or a house quickly gathers dust may consider a more frequent replacement.
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Keep It Away from the Sunlight
One of the critical factors that contribute to slime on pet water fountain growth is the sunlight. It would help if you placed the water fountain somewhere away from sunlight or skylight. It may be challenging to find a perfect spot, as the pump needs to be plugged in. If you cannot pick up the best position, then try to avoid direct lights. However, a dark place where the sunlight can’t reach is the priority.
From what's mentioned above, we know that getting rid of pet water fountain slime will depend on:
(1) How Easy Is It to Clean the Areas Where Slime Develops.
A smooth surface without curves is easy to clean, and that guarantees the slow growth of slime.
(2) How Easy Is It to Take Apart the Pump
Your pet fountain and its pump should be easy to take apart for cleaning; a small number of parts provide you with an easy assemble.
(3) How Large Are the Crevices of Cat Fountain
With a simple design and no crevices, pet water fountains can avoid much dust gathering on the case or small crevices, less chance for bacteria growth.
Choose the Right Cat Fountain
If your fountain still get slimy easily even with effort and regular cleaning, then the material might be blame for. Certain materials are less likely to build up slime, such as:
- BPA-Free Plastic
- Stainless-Steel
- Ceramic
These material have a smooth surface, not prone to get scratches and abrasion, tend to discourage bacteria growth. Moreover, these material can be clean and maintain with ease.
LAIKA Aqua Pet Water Fountain – Super EASY!
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Easy-to-clean, smooth like butter.
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A small number of parts
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Smooth & flat outer case & tank
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Every part of the Aqua pet water fountain can be visually seen;
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No sharp corners or crevices for slime to grow
- BPA-Free
Isn’t it the perfect match?
Get one on: https://laikapets.com/products/pet-water-fountain
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