It comes with easy to read directions and picture illustrations for setup, as assembly is required for the PetSafe Drinkwell 1/2 Gallon Pet Fountain. Once I had it setup, kitty seemed unsure of it, thinking mainly due to the sound, so he pretty much stared at it for a good while and then decided to give it a paw dip to test it out. It did take him a few additional days to start drinking from it regularly. The water flow can be adjusted easily by a quick turn of the knob and can also be turned off completely. When its time to clean you basically are just dissembling it, there are no seams in the water base bowl part, and it can be placed in the dishwasher. This water fountain does require being plugged into a electrical outlet, as it is not battery operated, the power supply cord is decent length. Highly satisfied with its overall performance.