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Quick answer
PetSafe's guide to a weak or stopped Drinkwell flow lists three checks: the flow control knob, a film in the pump opening or impeller compartment, and dirty filters. Catit's manual adds one for noise: top up the water so the pump is fully under water.
Foam filter and replacement pump:
PetSafe Foam Filter (PAC00-13711) PetSafe Replacement Pump (PAC00-13206) Catit Flower Filters (#43745) Catit PIXI Filters (#43721)Check these first
- Flow control knob (PetSafe): the knob under the lid adjusts the flow. PetSafe says turn it to the right to increase it.
- Water level: Catit says if the pump makes noise, top up the water so the pump is fully submerged, and not to let the pump run dry. PetSafe says to fill the Drinkwell bowl to about ½ inch below the rim.
- Filters: PetSafe says dirty filters won't let water flow easily. Replace a dirty carbon filter, and clean or replace an old, dirty foam filter. Catit's manual says to replace its filter if the water flow is impeded.
Take the pump apart and clean it
Unplug the fountain first. PetSafe says to unplug the adapter and disconnect the pump before taking the fountain apart, and Catit's manual says to unplug with dry hands before handling the pump.
| Step | PetSafe Drinkwell pump | Catit Flower pump |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Open it | Remove the faceplate | Open the pump |
| 2. Remove the cover | Pull the small tab to remove the stator | Remove the impeller cap |
| 3. Remove the impeller | Pull up from underneath the white plastic. It's held by a magnet, so expect some resistance | Remove the impeller and handle it with care |
| 4. Clean | Mild dish soap and warm water, inside the pump and all pieces. For mineral build-up, soak in 50/50 water and white vinegar for at least 15 minutes, then scrub. No bleach or harsh chemicals | Remove debris from the impeller and clean the impeller well with a cotton swab. Rinse each part with water |
| 5. Reassemble | Impeller, stator, then faceplate | Reassemble carefully |
PetSafe notes that with hard water you may see white mineral deposits on or inside the pump, which may eventually stop the impeller turning properly. It also sells a Drinkwell cleaning kit with a brush for inside the pump.
When to replace the pump
If the pump still won't run after cleaning, PetSafe sells a replacement pump (PAC00-13206) that it lists for the Drinkwell, Avalon, Pagoda, Sedona, Seascape, Stainless Multi-Pet, Plastic 360, Zen, Multi-Tier, Seaside and Creekside fountains. PetSafe also suggests it as a backup to swap in while you clean. Catit lists its Flower LED pump as part #50038, with USB adapter #50043. If you're unsure, the maker's customer care can confirm the right part for your model.
How we work: every step here comes from PetSafe support articles and product pages, the Catit Flower Fountain LED manual and Catit's cleaning guide, listed below. We have not tested these pumps.
Questions people ask
Why did my cat fountain pump stop or slow down?
PetSafe lists three things to check: the flow control knob, a film built up in the pump opening or impeller compartment, and dirty filters. With hard water, PetSafe says mineral deposits may eventually stop the impeller turning properly.
How do I take apart a fountain pump to clean it?
For a PetSafe Drinkwell pump: unplug, remove the faceplate, pull the small tab to remove the stator, then pull the impeller up from underneath the white plastic (a magnet holds it). Clean with mild dish soap and warm water, or soak in 50/50 water and white vinegar for at least 15 minutes if there is mineral build-up.
Why is my cat fountain pump noisy?
Catit's Flower manual says if the pump makes noise, top up the water so the pump is fully submerged, and not to let the pump run dry.
Sources
Last checked Oct 23, 2026. Fountain tray shapes and pump models change by revision; check the maker's part number on your fountain base or manual before ordering.
- PetSafe Support: My Drinkwell fountain has a weak or stopped flow
- PetSafe Support: How to take apart a Drinkwell fountain pump for cleaning
- PetSafe Support: How to disassemble and clean a Drinkwell ½, 1 or 2 gallon fountain
- PetSafe Support: How to assemble a Drinkwell ½, 1 or 2 gallon fountain
- PetSafe: Drinkwell replacement pump (PAC00-13206)
- Catit: Flower Fountain LED manual (PDF)
- Catit: Flower fountain cleaning guide
