Why a heated bowl matters more for cats than people think
Cats are easily put off cold or stale water. In winter, when their usual drinking spots freeze, they drink less — which compounds urinary tract issues that already affect a high share of older cats.
A heated bowl keeps water above freezing (up to about 40 °C max, thermostat-controlled), which cats find palatable and which doesn't risk burning a curious nose. It also stops the water bowl from cracking when ice expands inside it.