I've never been sure about this style of pet water fountain but it was easy to assemble and my cats will either drink from the fountain or the little puddles inbetween. I hope it lasts as well as my current fountain made by the same isYoung but completely different style. I also like that it comes with a placemat and a spare filter it makes for a good starter kit. I would recommend this item based the few days my cats have been using it(and they have been using it alot)