How To Get A Cat To Drink Water

Tips and Tricks to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

Cats have historically been desert creatures that derived the majority of the moisture they need from their prey, which meant they did not require as much water as dogs did to survive. Cats with a range of medical issues, on the other hand, may benefit from increasing their water consumption. Kidney illness and bladder stones or crystals are two examples of conditions that occur often. Cats suffering with renal illness lose their capacity to concentrate their pee, causing them to urinate more than they would normally, which can result in dehydration if they do not drink enough to make up for the lost concentration.

Increasing water consumption can occasionally be beneficial in the treatment of many urinary diseases, as it helps to wash out the kidneys, bladder, and the rest of the urinary system.

We’ve included some of the techniques and tactics we’ve learned over the years to help cats that are dehydrated get more water into their systems.

If your cat already like and eats wet food, you are in luck!

1. If your cat is already eating wet food but still needs to drink more water, you may try mixing in a little quantity of extra water to the meal to see if that helps.
2. In the event that your cat is currently exclusively eating dry food, consult with your veterinarian to determine which wet food best satisfies your cat’s nutritional requirements.
3. It is critical to experiment with different flavors and textures of wet food since cats may be quite selective about what they will consume.
4. Most importantly, if your cat does not enjoy wet food, do not try to force them to eat it.
5. Food that is not wet If your cat is used to eating dry food and is not interested in switching to wet food, you might try mixing water into the kibble.
6. If you add the water in small amounts at a time, your cat may eventually learn to eat the wet kibble.
7. Ensure that the water bowl is close by the food.
8. Many cats, especially those that only consume dry food, may alternate between eating and drinking on a regular basis.
9. Because the water is readily available while the cat is waiting for food, it is possible that the cat may drink more of it while waiting.
10. Some cats enjoy the sound of running water, and the filter keeps the water fresh longer.

Additionaly, though it is not ecologically friendly, some cats prefer flowing water even more than fountains, therefore turning on a faucet at a slow drip (if there is no water scarcity) during periods of time when your cat is active might be another method to try if water fountains are not effective.

• You may experiment with different materials in the bowls to determine which one your cat like the most over time.
• Additionally, you may play about with the size and form of the bowls.
• Your cat will have constant and simple access to water in this manner.
• Additionally, they might be extremely particular about the temperature of the water.
• Wash all of your bowls on a regular basis to prevent bacterial buildup.
• The practice of filling the water bowl almost to the brim may encourage some cats to drink more water in the future.
• Including Broth or Other Liquids Adding broth to a cat’s food can be a useful method to provide hydration for cats that require it.
• Using flavored water or bottled water are two more choices for adding moisture to your meal.

Also available for cats are hydration products, however it is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine whether these products are appropriate for your cat’s needs. Sasha Santiago, a veterinary student, collaborated on the writing of this piece.

Deborah E. Linder, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Nutrition)

In addition to being as director of the Tufts Obesity Clinic for Animals, Dr. Deborah Linder has written pieces that have appeared in publications such as Eating Well, the Boston Globe, AARP, SHAPE, and XM Sirius Radio Doctor Channel. She has presented at national and international conferences, as well as a briefing on Capitol Hill, and she is a recognized authority in pet obesity, nutrition communication, and the human-animal link, among other topics.

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7 Creative Ways to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water

One in in three cats will have renal issues over their lifespan. Many cat lovers have already dealt with this issue at some point in their lives, and they are likely to be aware that dehydration can exacerbate renal illness in cats. In light of this, here are seven excellent methods for encouraging your cat to drink more water. 1. Arrange the water basins. EVERYWHERELocation, location, location—it all comes down to where you are. What you might not realize is that the placement of a water bowl has a significant impact on the behavior of most cats.

• Keep fresh water dishes in several locations to ensure that your cat is as comfortable as possible.
• Consider giving your cat moist food instead of dry food.
• It is always more essential that a cat consumes than that the cat eats what we desire, and it is surprising that not every cat like wet food, especially when it is their sole source of nutrition.
• More feeding suggestions, including some that are surprisingly effective, may be found here.
• Supplement your cat’s food with water or flavorConsider supplementing canned food with water or a low sodium chicken broth, or get creative and discuss different taste alternatives with your veterinarian.
• Remember that every cat is unique, and even the texture of the food can make a difference in how it reacts.
• 5.

Not only will the ice help to keep the water colder for longer, but it may also provide a pleasant flavor to the water.

5.

Drinking fountains are not only a fun method to encourage your cat to drink, but they can also be aesthetically pleasing additions to your home decor.

6.

Keep in mind that your cat is unlikely to want to share the dog’s enormous dish of food with him.

Maintain a constant supply of bowls and see which one empties the quickest.

Jane Robertson’s cat, for example, prefers to drink from a transparent drinking glass while she is with her owner.

7.

Many cats may adopt less traditional means of obtaining water in order to save time and money.

If you observe this habit, please let your cat to drink from the faucet for a few drips before turning off the water.

Are you looking for further dietary advice? By clicking here, you can get our nutritional information. In the event that you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or phone your veterinarian; they are your greatest resource for ensuring the health and well-being of your dogs.

Is Your Cat Not Drinking Water? Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

If you make a purchase after clicking on one of our affiliate links, we may receive a commission. The majority of cats do not consume enough water. Because cats are so independent, we presume they are aware of what is best for their health, and in many cases, they are correct. However, it was via a medical concern involving a dehydrated cat that I realized the need of encouraging a cat to drink more water. So, is your cat refusing to drink water, or is your cat not drinking enough water to keep up with you?

Phant / Shutterstock provided the photography.

The cautionary tale of onedehydrated cat

It is possible that we will receive an affiliate commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of the links on our site. Water consumption is inadequate in the majority of felines. For obvious reasons, we think cats are self-sufficient and so know what is best for their health, and in many cases this is correct. However, it was via a medical concern involving a dehydrated cat that I realized the need of encouraging a cat to drink more water: So, is your cat refusing to drink water, or is your cat not drinking enough water to keep up with him?

Dehydration can result from a cat not drinking enough water.

1. Switch to a mostlywet-food diet

Canned food simply contains more moisture than fresh food. According to my veterinarian, this is the quickest and most effective method of encouraging your cat to drink more water and avoiding a dehydrated cat. If your cat is refusing to eat wet food, try adding water or broth to dry food and seeing if he will eat it. If your cat digs canned food, moisten it even more by adding water or broth to it before serving. Some cats enjoy the soupy consistency that is produced as a result of this.

2. Try ice cubes in your cat’s food

It gives the cat a little reward while also adding moisture to the environment. The cube absorbs the flavor of the food, and while your cat is licking the cube, he is also consuming more water as well. Ice cubes in your cat’s water bowl may also be effective if your cat isn’t drinking enough water. Some cats, just as some humans, prefer ice-cold water to be consumed.

3. Serve smaller, more frequent meals

A cat that is not drinking water may drink more water if he is given more opportunities to do so by being fed more often.

4. Place water bowls throughout the house

Providing various water stations throughout the home will make it quite convenient for your cat to get himself a drink. These customized bowls from Frisco ($12.99, Chewy) are a lot of fun.

It is possible that a cat that does not drink water will have difficulty obtaining the water in issue. My cat Romeo enjoys drinking water from the glasses I use to hold it. Leave a few carefully positioned drinking cups about the house, and your cat may be more likely to drink more water as well.

5. Be aware of the water bowl’s location

It’s possible that a cat that doesn’t drink water doesn’t like the placement of his water bowl. Ensure that your cat’s water bowl is not in the same room as his litter box. Would you like to consume alcoholic beverages in close proximity to your toilet?

6. Make sure the bowls are refilled regularly

Fresh water is a cat’s favorite beverage, and who can blame them? Remember to replace the water at least once a day and thoroughly wash out the bowl with soap and water on a regular basis to keep it from becoming sticky and disgusting.

7. Tap into the faucet

You may use this as an excellent chance to encourage your cat to drink more water if he is drawn to rushing water! If your cat is refusing to drink water, it may only require you to convert drinking water into an enjoyable activity. Make a habit of running the faucet for a few minutes at a time many times a day. Incorporate it into your daily routine, for example, and you’ll be able to spend quality time with your family while sipping on a long, refreshing glass of water.

8. Flavor the water

It’s possible that a cat that doesn’t drink water will consume flavored water! You may try to get your cats to drink more water by flavoring their water with a little tuna juice or chicken broth first.

9. Use cat fountains

Fountains are a favorite watering spot for many cats. The first few times they try it, they may struggle, but once they get the hang of it, they’ll be hooked! Decorative cat fountains like this one from Cat Mate ($27.95, Chewy) are popular because the circulating water is appealing to cats while also keeping them healthy. If you forget to replace your cat’s water bowl on a daily basis, this is a great solution.

10. Experiment with different types ofcat bowls

Cats are picky about just about everything (which should come as no surprise), and you can now add drinking bowls to the list of things they are picky about. It’s possible that your cat has a strong preference for one of the materials (glass, stainless steel, ceramic, or plastic) after trying a few.

The bottom line on what to know about a cat not drinking water

You and your cat are not alone in thinking that we may all benefit from drinking more water. Getting your cat to drink more water offers a variety of advantages, and it can help you avoid the potentially serious health consequences of a dehydrated cat. More water equals more peeing, which equals a healthy kitten and a happier everyone! Photograph by Konstantin Aksenov/Getty Images at the top of the page.

Read Next:Here’s Why Cats Hate Water — And What to Do About It

It’s critical for your cat(s) to be hydrated, just like it is for you, in order for them to feel good and stay healthy. You should be on the lookout if your cat is not drinking water since this might be an indication of disease or injury in your feline buddy. Throughout this post, we’ll discuss the amount of water a cat requires, why a cat could stop drinking water, and what you can do to urge your cat to start drinking again. You may find more cat-friendly articles on our website here if you enjoyed this one.

How much water does my cat need?

The amount of water required by a cat on a daily basis is determined by a variety of factors, including the cat’s age, size, nutrition, and the time of year. In general, kittens and old cats require more water than adult cats – as do cats that are extremely active or who live in hot locations with plenty of sun. In average, an adult domestic cat weighing 5 kg should drink around 250 mL of water every day – little more than one cup – to keep himself hydrated. However, if your cat is really active outside or consumes just dry food (which contains less water than wet food), he or she may require more than 250 cc of water every 24 hours.

Instead of measuring out exactly this quantity, offer your cat with access to a clean, fresh water supply throughout the day and let them to drink as much as they require.

If your cat is making fewer trips to the water bowl than usual, refusing to drink at all, or even consuming significantly more water than usual, you should be worried about his or her water consumption.

Whydid my cat stop drinking water?

When a cat stops eating or drinking water, it is frequently an indication of a more serious disease that must be addressed as quickly as possible. The underlying ailment might be any of the following:

• Liver illness, renal disease, cancer, and periodontal disease1 are all possibilities.

Cats may not drink water for a variety of reasons, some of which are less problematic than others. These include cleanliness, material and position of the water dish, changes in food, activity level, temperature, surgery, and the age of the cat. These are all possible reasons why your cat has stopped drinking water: the water supply is contaminated or polluted, the bowl is being shared with another animal, or the placement of the water bowl has moved recently. More specific information about your cat’s daily activity, including calories burnt and active minutes, may be obtained from the Tractive GPS Cat Tracker and Activity Monitor, which can be purchased separately.

Signs of dehydration in cats

If your cat does not drink enough water to satisfy his or her daily requirements, he or she might get dehydrated. Cats’ energy levels, organ function, and skin health may suffer as a result of this. People get dehydrated when they drink too little water or urinate more frequently than they ingest water, or by more serious conditions such as blood loss, vomiting, heat stroke, diabetes, and renal disease2. Among the signs and symptoms of dehydration are:

• Skin that is dry and non-elastic
• Loss of appetite
• Drooling
• Panting
• Urinating excessively or rarely
• Weakness
• Trembling
• Elevated heart rate
• And other symptoms

If you observe any of these symptoms, take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible; your cat may be suffering from dangerously low onelectrolytes levels if left untreated.

When is a vet needed for acat not drinking water?

Make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as you notice your cat hasn’t been drinking water for 48-72 hours or exhibits other concerning signs such as lethargy, lack of appetite, and changes in urine and feces patterns. 1 If your cat is suffering from dehydration, one of the ailments listed above, or another condition that need medical care, your veterinarian will be able to decide whether or not they require treatment.

Can I feed my cat milk instead of water?

Water is the only thing that cats require to keep hydrated. In general, milk is hazardous for cats owing to the fact that the majority of them are lactose intolerant and will become sick (with diarrhea and vomiting, for example) if they consume it. Consequently, it is advised not to give your cat milk unless it is particularly designed for cats3. Cats may love the taste of milk due to the high fat level in the beverage. However, you should avoid giving your cat milk since you will most likely end up with a sick kitten on your hands.

How to get a cat to drink water

There are a variety of techniques and tactics you may use to encourage your cat to drink more water or to boost their water consumption. However, if none of these suggestions work, remember to visit your veterinarian if the cat has not had any water for 48-72 hours.

1. Keep the water dish clean by washing it once a day. Water should be served in a glass, ceramic, or metal bowl rather than a plastic one. Make use of a water fountain if possible. Place a variety of water sources around the house – your cat may prefer one type of water source over another. Make certain that the food and drink bowls are placed away from the litter box. Separate the food and water bowls since some cats will not tolerate them being in the same bowl
2. Check to check whether Kitty drinks by turning on the faucet. Between now and then, give your cat some wet food to keep him from becoming dehydrated. To get your cat to drink, add (unsalted) tuna or chicken broth or crushed catnip to their water bowl. Instead of feeding your cat tap water, try giving him bottled water. Fill the water dish halfway with ice cubes.

Check out the video below for additional information and ideas on how to convince your cat to drink water.

Don’t forget to use a Tractive GPS Cat Tracker to keep track of your cat’s daily activities! Discover the benefits of Tractive GPS. If you like this post, please forward it to a friend!

Encouraging your cat to drink more water

Have you ever observed that cats have a penchant for drinking from unusual sources? Even if you provide them with a bowl of fresh, clean water on a daily basis, they prefer to drink from the shower or the base of a pot plant. What is the reason behind this? And how can you make sure that a cat gets adequate water in his diet? Cats, by their very nature, do not consume a lot of water. They are descended from desert-dwelling felines, which would have been able to tolerate drought conditions rather well in the past.

It is critical for cats not to become dehydrated in order to avoid bladder and renal issues further down the road.

Drinking water is therefore crucial for your cat’s happiness and health to remain intact.

Water from cat food

The same way that wild cats obtain a significant amount of moisture from their prey, cats who consume wet food are less likely to be at danger of being dehydrated as a result of their diet. You may also notice that cats who consume wet food tend to drink less water overall, according to the experts. Cats who only eat dried food must drink significantly more water in order to get an adequate amount of fluid throughout the day. Although it is possible that you have a valid cause for feeding your cat dry food (for example, for healthy teeth).

1. The fact that domestic cats often avoid drinking water from sources close to their food and toilets is another relic of their wild history.
2. This is one of the reasons why cats like to drink in unusual places, such as from a puddle outside their enclosure.
3. A cat who drinks enough is typically joyful and energetic, has slightly wet gums, and pees around three times a day, according to the experts.
4. If you feel that your cat isn’t getting enough water, there are some tactics you may do to encourage your cat to drink more.

Tips for getting your cat to drink more:

• Add wet food or fresh meat to your cat’s diet in little amounts at a time. Add a few tablespoons of water to your cat’s canned food. Keep their water bowl apart from the litter box and feeding bowl
• This will prevent accidents. Maintain a number of water bowls throughout the house in various locations
• Keep your cat’s water dishes clean on a regular basis. Whisker stress may be avoided by using a shallow water dish. Fresh water is always preferable
• Change it on a daily basis. Cats adore the sound of running water, so invest in a water fountain.

Talk to your cat sitter

Do you ever use Pawshake to find a cat sitter for your pet? Ensure that the cat sitter changes the water in your cat’s bowl every day and that you are aware of any changes in your cat’s habits while you are away. Insist that the cat sitter not only cleans and replenishes all of your cat’s water dishes, but also provides them with a bed to sleep in (if you have a few around the house – which is an excellent idea).

Water from a faucet or watering can might be interesting to cats, so propose this to your cat sitter as a fun pastime.

Suddenly drinking more?

Is your cat suddenly drinking a lot more water and doing so more frequently? Too much drinking and urinating is also not a healthy habit. If you or your cat sitter notices a sudden change in your cat’s behavior, you should always visit your veterinarian. Pawshake can help you find a cat sitter.

4 Simple Ways to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

Is your cat getting enough to drink? Here’s how you may assist her in keeping hydrated. Every day, a typical 10-pound cat should drink between 7 and 9 ounces of water, but ensuring sure your cat is properly hydrated can be difficult. In any case, it’s not like they’re keeping track of their water intake with sophisticated graduated measurement water bottles or anything like that. The good news is that there are a few simple things you can do to encourage your cat to drink more water. Try these home remedies first, and then consult your veterinarian if your cat continues to show signs of dehydration.

1. Give Her Options

Some cats may prefer to drink from a dish, while others may prefer to play in a rippling water fountain. Try a couple different types of dispensers scattered throughout your home and observe which ones your cat like to return to most often. If your cat is very fussy, put down dishes made of various materials to keep them entertained. Some cats may come to the conclusion that glass dishes are just preferable to plastic bowls.

2. Keep It Fresh and Clean

If a water glass has been hanging out for several days, it is unlikely that you will want to drink it. Your cat is no exception; she’s most likely turning her nose up at her water dish because it’s filthy and stale at this point. Make sure to clean her dish on a frequent basis—perhaps even every day—and to provide her with freshly poured water at all times.

3. Try Different Types of Water

No, we’re not talking about the difference between sparkling and still water—but rather about what’s in the water. Despite the fact that fluoride is added to our drinking water to help prevent cavities and dental disease, your kitty companion may find it unpleasant. You might also try giving her fluoride-free bottled water or using a water filter (water filters will not eliminate fluoride, but they may improve the flavor of your tap water). Experiment with a variety of temperatures, as well. The majority of cats want their drinking water to be at normal temperature, however some cats may prefer their water to be slightly chilly.

4. Fill ‘Er Up!

Don’t stop at a half-full (or half-empty, depending on how you look at it) bowl of soup. Cats sometimes want their water to be able to reach all the way to the top of the container for easy lapping. Keeping a towel nearby in case this turns their drinking area into a splash zone is recommended.) Always keep an eye on how much your cat is drinking and consult with your veterinarian if you detect any significant changes—this might be an indication of something more severe, such as renal illness, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes.

How to encourage your cat to drink

There are instances when it may be beneficial to urge your cat to drink more fluids than he or she is already consuming.

Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Cats suffering from renal illness Consequently, these cats are more susceptible to being dehydrated, which can exacerbate their renal illness. Cats suffering from feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) Preventing relapses of this illness by producing bigger quantities of more dilute urine can be beneficial.

Type of water bowl

Choose a bowl that your cat will like to drink from and that is easy to clean.

• Experiment with different sorts of bowls that you provide for your cat to eat from. Cats prefer plates made of glass, metal, or ceramic over those made of plastic in general. Most cats like a broad shallow dish so that they do not have to cram their heads into the container in order to consume their food and water. Cats generally do not enjoy it when their whiskers come into contact with the side of their water (or food) dish. Some cats prefer to drink from tumblers (if you’re going to put it on a high shelf, make sure it’s not breakable). Prepare a large water bowl for your cat
• Cats prefer to drink from a container that is completely filled.

Number of water bowls

Ensure that you have many water dishes so that your cat does not have to go far to locate one.

• Having one on each level of the house, for example, eliminates the need for the cat to travel upstairs or downstairs to obtain water
• And In the event that you have more than one cat, you must give enough resources for each’social’ group of cats in the home. This means providing at least one dish of water for each social group of cats in the home.

Location of water bowls

Select an appropriate place for your water bowls.

• Cats prefer not to drink near their food bowls
• They prefer to drink in a separate area. Avoid using two bowls at the same time (one side for water and the other for food). Separate bowls of food and water for your cat can encourage him to consume more liquids
• The setting should be peaceful, preferably away from frequently trafficked doors and busy intersections.

Other water supplies

Consider where there is rushing water because some cats enjoy drinking from moving water.

• It might be a leaky faucet, a shower tray or bath with a tiny quantity of water in it, or anything else. Placing a ping pong ball within a big diameter bowl full of water – some cats will love playing with this, and it can promote drinking while also assisting in the creation of some movement in the water, which many cats appreciate
• Placing a ping pong ball inside a large diameter bowl full of water

Different types of water

It may be worthwhile to try with different types of water to determine whether your cat has a preference. Many cats are not fond of water that has been extensively fluoridated. Try:

• Water from the tap (or “faucet”) (as long as it is acceptable for human consumption)
• Rainwater that has been collected — for example, from containers placed in your garden
• When given the option, many cats prefer to drink from puddles and water sources in the garden. Water with minerals

Other liquids to try

• Poaching liquid is the liquid left behind after a piece of chicken or fish has been poached. The liquid from a tuna can in a glass of spring water
• Cooking seafood, fish, or meat in water to make a soup or broth is referred to as blanching.

Liquid to avoid:

• If your cat has renal condition, this is not the best food for him since it includes large quantities of phosphate, which is harmful to the kidneys. Dairy products such as cow’s milk are not fully digested by cats and might result in diarrhea.

• Anything that contains onions or onion powder, for example, stock. In contrast to dogs, onions are harmful to cats.

Other tips

• Water and other liquids should be served at room temperature if at all feasible (the flavor of cold liquids is diminished)
• It is better to provide a wet diet (cans or pouches) than a dry diet.

• Consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat’s food. The addition of more water to wet food might also assist in increasing water consumption. Some cats will cheerfully consume food that has the appearance of soup! (Use room temperature water rather than cold water for mixing)

• In the event that your cat will only eat dry food, try mixing in some water to their meal. Be persistent in your efforts. Make gradual modifications to your cat’s food and water — cats do not tolerate sudden changes to their diet or water.

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7 Ways to Get Your Cat To Drink More Water

Is it necessary for you to urge your cat to drink more water? We’ve been in the position where we needed to urge our cats to drink more water, which was frequently due to renal problems. To encourage our kitties to drink more water, we’ve come up with seven simple strategies: Affiliate links are used in this article.

Move your cat’s water bowl.

Predictability, on the other hand, can be tedious. In the kitchen, if Fluffy’s water dish has always, always been right next to the food bowl, consider placing a second water bowl in a corner of the living room. Alternatively, in your bedroom. The window sill, for example. Your cat will delight in discovering water in new and unexpected places.

Install a fountain.

It’s true that predictability may be tedious. In the kitchen, if Fluffy’s water dish has always, always been right next to the food bowl, consider placing a second water bowl in the corner of the living room. Alternatively, you may do it in your room. The window sill, for example. Your cat will delight in discovering water in unexpected locations.

Change the water more frequently.

No one likes to drink water that has gone flat and stale! Increase the frequency of water changes and wash the dish after each change.

Offer multiple bowls made of different materials.

Ceramic Pet Cat Bowls with Raised Feet (Y YHY) Do you always put water in a porcelain dish for your guests? A glass casserole dish, a porcelain saucer, and a stainless steel bowl are all good choices for the next step. Your cat’s attention may be piqued by varying the size and form of the dish, as well as the materials used to make it.

Add an ice cube to your cat’s water.

Having some playful fun with their water is something that some cats like doing. The water is so inviting that our Jetty can’t keep her paw out of it every time she walks by it. An ice cube may be a fun and inexpensive method to get your cat to stop and play–and drink–for a short period of time.

Add a few spoonfuls of low-sodium chicken broth or tuna water.

Simple additions of broth to your cat’s water might help to make it more palatable and promote greater drinking. Commercial chicken broth should be avoided since certain versions contain onion, which is not recommended. The presence of salt in many commercial broths is also an issue.

Bring chicken to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for several hours to produce your own homemade broth quickly and easily. Allow it to cool before pouring it into ice trays. Simply drop a cube into your cat’s water bowl for a delightful treat.

Add water to your cat’s wet food.

When it comes to feral cat colonies, many guardians employ this approach throughout the winter months to guarantee that the cats have access to lots of water before it freezes. Incorporating water into wet food ensures that cats consume the additional water while eating. Simple techniques can help you encourage your cat to drink more water–while also making the procedure more enjoyable for both of you.

Why Isn’t My Cat Drinking Water?

One of your responsibilities as a pet parent is to ensure that your cat consumes enough water to remain healthy. If you notice that your feline companion isn’t going to her water bowl on a regular basis, it’s time to figure out why she isn’t drinking. A classic adage goes that you can lead a cat to water, but you can’t make her drink (or do anything else she doesn’t want to do, for that matter) until she wants to. However, after you’ve determined that your cat isn’t drinking enough water, there are a few options for getting her to drink more frequently.

How Much Water Is Enough?

Your cat requires continuous access to fresh drinking water in order to maintain proper hydration levels. Keep her drinking bowl clean and topped off with water on a frequent basis, especially if it’s near her feeding dish, since she may accidentally drop a few food crumbs into her drinking bowl. But how much water does she truly require on a daily basis? Not nearly as much as you might expect. In accordance with the Committee on Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, “cats do not drink as much per kilogram of body weight as dogs.” As a result, the amount of water required by your cat fluctuates depending on the food she consumes and her habitat.

Wet food, on the other hand, gives your kitty with both food and moisture at the same time, which can help her maintain her fluid balance.

Why Is My Cat Not Drinking Water?

First and foremost, you must understand why your cat isn’t drinking enough water in order to avoid the dangers of dehydration and to learn how to urge your cat to drink more water. If there are no major medical difficulties, it is best to start with the fundamentals. Is her water free of food particles, hair, dust bunnies, and other foreign objects? Washing and replacing her water dish at least once a day, if not more, will ensure that your furry companion has access to and craves clean drinking water.

1. Debora Lichtenberg, VMD inPetful.
2. In her instance, relocating it away from the food bowls solved the situation.
3. Kitty Sips and the Physics of It Keep in mind, as well, that your feline companion is unlikely to drink a considerable amount of water at one time.
4. The tongue of a cat barely scrapes the surface of the water before dragging it back up into her mouth, unlike the tongue of a ladle.
5. Since she can execute four of these tongue dips every second — all while keeping her chin dry — it’s difficult to notice this line of liquid without recording it on high-speed footage.

She has her own careful approach to everything she does. Cats have even been known to daintily put their paw into the dish and suck off the excess water. As long as she drinks a few sips of water every day and incorporates moisture into her diet, she will be OK.

How Do I Know if My Cat Is Dehydrated?

When a cat does not drink enough water, she runs the danger of becoming dehydrated. According to Petcha, “dehydration happens when the normal bodily fluids, including water and electrolytes, fall below essential levels,” resulting in energy, skin, and organ function issues as well as other complications. Although a cat’s refusal to drink water is not necessarily the cause of dehydration, it is frequently cited as a possible cause or symptom of dehydration.

Causes

It is possible for a cat to get dehydrated by not drinking enough water or peeing more than she is consuming, or, in extreme cases, by vomiting or losing blood. According to the Preventive Vet, dehydration can cause kidney illness, heat stroke, and diabetes among other things. If your cat is elderly or has thyroid issues, she is at a greater risk of developing cancer.

Symptoms

Checking for loose skin, often known as “tenting,” in your cat is a simple method to determine whether or not he is dehydrated. Plop your cat into your lap and gently raise the skin on the back of her neck up to expose the muscle beneath it. When a cat is properly hydrated, the flap of skin will snap back into place. If it remains in a folded position or is sluggish to fall back, she most likely requires extra fluids. Symptoms to look out for include weakness, lack of appetite, panting, dribbling, a racing heartbeat, a weak pulse, dry or sticky gums, shaking, excessive urine, or infrequent urination, among others.

Petcha points out that, similar to a person swallowing a sports drink after running around a soccer field, a cat exhibiting these characteristics may be deficient in electrolytes such as salt.

How Do I Get My Cat to Drink More Water?

Is your cat refusing to drink water, even after you’ve ruled out medical conditions and other possible causes? It’s possible that you’ll have to pull something out of your bag of cat tricks. There are a few different approaches you may use to encourage your cat to drink water. If you haven’t already noticed throughout your time as a pet parent, cats may be quite picky about what they eat and drink. If your cat would not drink from a water bowl, consider investing in a water fountain, which will provide her with the advantage of constantly fresh water as well as the enjoyment of splashing it around.

• Some cats are also not fond of the thought of standing motionless in water.
• It has been suggested by Animal Planet that changing around your kitty’s habitat may encourage her to drink more water.
• Different bowl materials such as ceramics, metal, and glass may also entice her to taste and study them more.
• According toBoston Street Animal Hospital, dry food has only around 10% water, and wet food can include up to 70% liquid, depending on the recipe.
• In the event that your cat isn’t a fan of canned food, you can dilute dry kibble with water or mix wet and dry food in the same dish for him.

It is possible to assist your cat have the energy she needs to spring and pounce another day if you provide her with the necessities of adequate diet as well as fresh, clean drinking water.

Contributor Bio

Christine O’Brien is a writer and actress. The author, mother, and long-time cat parent Christine O’Brien lives with her two Russian Blue cats, who are the rulers of the household. Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy are just a few of the publications where she contributes articles about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter, where she goes by the handle @brovelliobrien.

How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

Is it possible that your cat isn’t drinking from its water bowl at all? That might be a major concern because urinary tract infections, renal difficulties, and dehydration are more frequent in cats than you might expect to see. When cats were prey, they acquired most of their water from their prey, thus cats who eat dry kibble instead of wet food may not have as strong an inclination to drink from a water bowl as they formerly did. What kinds of health concerns may your cat be experiencing if they don’t drink enough water.

What methods do you use to encourage your cat to drink more water?

How Much Water Should Cats Drink?

Cats require between 3.5 and 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day, depending on their size. That equates to 7-9 ounces of food each day for a 10-pound cat. Your cat, on the other hand, does not have to drink all of the water from the bowl. With wet food, your cat might obtain between 3.85 and 4.4 ounces of water from a 5.5-ounce can of food if you give it to them. However, cats that only eat dry kibble will not get as much moisture from their food and will need to drink enough of water to make up for the lack of moisture in their diet.

How Do I Know if My Cat Is Drinking Enough Water?

With canned food, it’s especially tough to keep track of how much water your cat is putting down. Keeping your cat’s water dishes filled to the same level every day and taking note of how much water is left before you throw it out and replenish it is the finest thing you can do. While you may not be able to determine the exact amount of water your cat is drinking, you should be able to detect trends. If you notice that your cat’s water bowl suddenly has more or less water than normal, this might be a clue that something is wrong with your cat.

What Happens if My Cat Won’t Drink Water?

Insufficient water consumption in cats increases the risk of dehydration, urinary tract infections (UTIs), crystal formation, and other health concerns.

Cat Dehydration Symptoms

Just like humans, cats may get dehydrated if they do not consume sufficient amounts of fluids. The following are signs of dehydration in cats:

• Eyes that are sunken in
• A lack of vitality Skin that is loose and does not “snap” back into place when pinched
• Panting
• Refusal to consume food
• Gums that are sticky or dry
• Having less urination than normal
• Heart rate that is elevated

Dehydration has the potential to be lethal. If your cat is exhibiting any of the signs of dehydration, seek immediate veterinarian attention.

Cat UTI Symptoms

Cats are more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, and blockages than dogs, owing to their proclivity for not drinking enough water.

If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort of a urinary tract infection, you understand how unpleasant it can be. Cats, on the other hand, have a tendency to conceal their symptoms when they are sick. Keep an eye out for signs of feline urinary tract infection (UTI), such as:

• Urinating in places other than the litter box
• Urination on a regular basis, yet only passing a tiny volume of pee at a time Having to work hard to urinate
• Urine containing blood
• Urinary opening is being licked more frequently
• While urinating, crying out in agony

How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

If you’re concerned about how much water your cat is consuming, here are some suggestions for encouraging them to drink more liquids.

Consider Switching to Wet Food

Because cats were created to obtain the water they require from the food they consume, it makes sense to provide them with wet food. In reality, moist cat chow contains around 70% to 80% water. Even if you are unable to completely transition your cat to a canned diet, including canned cat food among their dry kibble can still assist your cat in obtaining more moisture.

Get a Drinking Fountain

Due to the fact that flat water is more likely to hold parasites in the environment, it is possible that cats will choose to drink flowing water rather than flat water. Cat drinking fountains have the extra advantage of making it simpler for your cat to hear and see the water than it would be if the water were in a dish. Alternatively, if your cat enjoys drinking water from a leaking faucet, you might keep the faucet open.

Try Different Bowls

Cats may be finicky — we cat lovers are well aware of this! You may find that your cat does not enjoy the taste of water in a plastic dish, or that they have whisker fatigue if they drink from a bowl that is too tiny and high-sided. Try trying different dishes of varying sizes and materials to see which one your cat like the most.

Place More Water Bowls Around Your Home

Is your cat the only one in the home that has a water bowl of his own? Increase the number of water bowls available throughout your home to make it easier for them to drink. Also, make sure that the food and water dishes are at least a few feet away from the litter box — after all, you wouldn’t want to eat while standing in line at the potty, would you?

Add Flavor to the Water

Cats may find it more enticing to drink water if it contains ice cubes, clam juice, or a low-sodium chicken broth. Remember, a little goes a long way when it comes to saving money.

Add Water to Dry Food

Due to the low moisture content of dry food, adding a small amount of water to it might assist your cat in obtaining more moisture. Experiment with different water-to-food ratios to find which one your cat prefers the most.

Wash Your Cats Bowl More Frequently

When it comes to fragrance and taste, cats may be quite sensitive, which means that even the tiniest variation might cause them to stop drinking from their water bowl.

Get a Cat Sitter in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Sacramento, or San Francisco to Help

If you’re concerned about whether or not your cat is getting enough water, you might consider hiring a cat sitter if you have to travel out of town. Cat sitting services may ensure that your cat’s water bowl or fountain is clean and filled, as well as keeping track of how much water your cat is consuming. Don’t take the chance of returning home after a trip to find your cat has knocked over their water bowl while you were away. If you require a cat sitter in Sacramento, San Francisco, Las Vegas, or Los Angeles, look no farther than The Comforted Kitty.

How to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water: 11 Steps

While you may not believe that cats require a lot of water, it is critical that domesticated cats fed commercial cat diets be hydrated at all times. If your cat has a kidney or bladder condition, it’s even more important to keep him from becoming dehydrated.

There are various methods you may use to urge your cat to drink more water, which are listed below. Provide her with lots of clean, fresh water, and encourage her to drink by knowing her preferred types of water.

1. 1 Provide a diverse selection of bowls and glasses. It’s possible that your cat is merely finicky and prefers a certain bowl or glass over another. For example, she would choose a bowl or glass made of stainless steel rather than regular ceramic or plastic. To find out what your cat prefers, try putting out a range of styles and seeing which one he like the most.

• You might also want to play about with the depth of the bowls. Your cat may choose a deep dish or a shallow bowl depending on his or her preference. It really comes down to personal choice.

Set up your serving dishes all about the house. Keep your cat’s water dishes in a variety of locations rather than just one, since this may prevent him from drinking. Instead, place bowls by the sink, on the kitchen counter, near your bed, in the bathroom, or wherever else in the house that you think people might need them. This will encourage your cat to explore and serve as a reminder to her to drink plenty of fluids.

• Make certain that the food and water dishes are in places where your cat is likely to be. Consider the following scenarios: If your cat spends hours dozing on the windowsill, leave a cup of water nearby
• You may also place a bowl near the bathtub to see if your cat is interested

3 Maintain the cleanliness of the bowls and water. Every other day, thoroughly clean the bowls with soap and water, being sure to rinse them well. Run them in the dishwasher once a week to ensure they are sterilized. Water should be changed at least once or twice a day, and the bowl should be checked often to ensure that nothing has dropped into it throughout the day, especially if it is near the kitchen.

• Clean the bowls as well as the water they are sitting in. Every other day, thoroughly clean the bowls with soap and water, being sure to thoroughly rinse them. Run them in the dishwasher once a week to ensure they are sterilized. Water should be changed at least once or twice a day, and the bowl should be checked to ensure that nothing has dropped into it throughout the day, especially if it is close to the kitchen.

4 Keep an eye on the area where your cat drinks. Water dishes should be placed in a visually appealing location away from your cat’s food and litter box. While some cats don’t mind whether their water is close to their litter box or food dish, others are picky about whether or not they are close to their water bowl or litter box.

• Make certain that your cat can see you moving the water to a new position that is away from the food and litter box. She will not be concerned that her water supply has been cut off in this manner.

5 Start the tap and let it run. Some cats enjoy drinking from the faucet, despite the fact that it is not the most water-saving method. Your cat may become interested and intrigued as a result of the movement, causing her to need water. In the event that she does not appear to be interested straight away, you may take her up to the sink and demonstrate how much fun it is to drink from the faucet.

• Making this a part of your morning or evening routine will help your cat become accustomed to hearing the water running at those times. Since you probably don’t want the water running all the time, schedule it for those times.

6 Consider employing a water fountain as a water source. If you discover that your cat enjoys the sound of flowing water, consider purchasing a drinking fountain. This will ensure that the water continues to flow throughout the day, making drinking more enjoyable. Your cat may enjoy gazing at, playing with, and drinking from the fountain. Remember to have your standard water bottles on hand when you first set up the fountain. Keep both alternatives available so that your cat may choose which she likes from the two.

• Cat drinking fountains may be rather expensive, with the majority of models costing more over $50. However, if you’re concerned about your cat being dehydrated, it could be worth your while to make the purchase.

1. 1 Infuse flavorings into the water. Fill your cat’s water bowl with a little amount of tuna or chicken broth. You may also use part of the liquid from the canned cat food. Even a teaspoon or two of flavour poured into the water may be enough to entice your cat to drink it, especially if your cat generally prefers wet cat food to tap water. It’s important to remember, however, that not all cats enjoy the taste of flavored water.

• Additionally, you may try to lure your cat into drinking water by grinding up catnip and placing it in the water dish. Allow your cat to witness you crushing a small amount of catnip into the bottom of her water dish so she knows it’s there
• And

2 Make bottled water available. Test if your cat prefers plain bottled drinking water over water from the faucet by purchasing a bottle of plain bottled drinking water. It’s possible that your cat dislikes tap water because of the chlorine or excessive minerals present.

• You may experiment with providing your cat both room temperature and cooled bottled water to discover which temperature he likes.

3 Increase the amount of wet food you give your cat. While wet cat food is richer and more costly than dry cat food, it contains far more moisture than the latter. If you’re concerned that your cat isn’t getting enough water, consider switching her entirely to wet food or including some with her normal dry diet. Before making any nutritional modifications, consult with your veterinarian.

• It is not necessary to add water to your cat’s dry food in order to get her to drink more water. In addition to making his meal look and taste less appetizing and mushy, this may cause the food to deteriorate, resulting in your cat becoming unwell.

4 Pour in the ice cubes into the water. Some cats enjoy drinking cold water, and the ice crystals provide her with something to play with as well.

At start, only one or two ice cubes should be added to each bowl. As a result, your cat will not be startled by the sudden shift in temperature. If your cat like the flavor of broth, you may freeze it into ice cubes and put them in the dish.

• It’s possible that you’ll want to have your cat observe you put the ice cube in her drinking water. At some point, she could get more enthusiastic and psychologically aroused about drinking her water.

5 Make your meals smaller and more frequent. A lot of cats, like people, tend to drink after they eat, so consider feeding your cat more than once or twice a day to keep him or her satisfied. Reduce the size of your cat’s meals and serve them in smaller portions to encourage him to drink more often throughout the day. The new feeding schedule may need some adjustment time for your cat, but it has the potential to keep your cat hydrated.

• If you wish to provide more frequent meals, you must be accessible to do so
• Else, you risk losing your job.

Create a new question

• AnswerI’m having trouble getting my cat to drink more water. A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian Because wet food contains 75-80% water, it should be substituted for dry kibble. Provide cat with a water bowl in each of the house’s rooms. Make sure the water bowl is large enough so that the cat’s whiskers do not come into contact with the side of the bowl as she is drinking water. Additionally, consider installing a kitty drinking fountain for the cat. Question Is my cat suffering from dehydration? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian Lift the skin across the shoulder blades to see if this is the case. Allow the skin to be released. In this case, the cat is not dehydrated since it snaps back fast. Question: If you can see the skin settling, the cat is dehydrated. My kitty may sometimes go a day without eating, but will return to normal the next day. What should I do in this situation? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian It is not common for a kitten to go a whole day without eating anything, since they enjoy a variety of little nibbles spread throughout the day. It is critical to determine whether the kitten is unwell or simply dislikes the food that is being offered. Weigh and record the kitten’s weight on a daily basis
• If the kitten is not gaining weight (or is losing weight! ), a visit to the veterinarian is required. Keep an eye on the litter tray for signs of diarrhea, and be on the lookout for vomiting. Whether everything appears to be in order and the kitten is lively, experiment with a new meal to see if the kitten likes it over the first food and just does not care for the first food
• When it comes to cats and ice water, is it harmful? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian When it comes to drinking ice water, cats and humans are pretty much the same species. There is some evidence to suggest that it can cause bloat in dogs, but this does not appear to be the case in felines. However, it is a good idea to provide room temperature water at all times so that the cat may make his or her own decision
• Question Is it possible to force feed water to a cat? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian It is better to avoid doing this unless absolutely necessary, however you can syringe water into a cat. Placing the syringe (with needle removed) into the cat’s mouth is accomplished by lifting the lip and slipping the hub in under the canine teeth. Using a tiny amount of water, squirt it into the cat’s mouth and let the cat to drink. Repeat. Never shoot water into a confined space too rapidly. Question My 4-month-old kitten will drink yogurt diluted with water, but will not drink water on its own. What can I do to get her to consume more fluids? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian Cats don’t require a lot of water, and the yogurt drink provides her with all of her daily requirements, so she’s less inclined to drink regular water. Reduce or eliminate the yogurt drinks and place large water basins in different areas of the house, aside from her eating dishes. The provision of a cat water fountain will alleviate the problem for certain cats that prefer to drink from a dripping faucet.

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• If there is a chance that the water will freeze, stainless steel dishes should be used instead of glass bowls. If there is electricity accessible in the region, consider purchasing a heated water dish. Many are made of plastic, although they can be lined with a stainless steel bowl if desired. Water should be placed in and around the stainless steel bowl to allow the heat to be transferred via the water.

• Having a high level of water intake and urine might indicate a dangerous medical condition. A cat exhibiting these signs should be taken to the veterinarian for a thorough checkup. Similarly, if your cat stops drinking water completely, take her to the veterinarian for an examination.

About this article

Summary of the ArticleXTo encourage your cat to drink more water, start by providing a variety of clean fresh water bowls and glasses throughout the home. Be cautious about putting your cat’s water dishes next to his/her food bowl or litter box, as some cats are picky about where they get their water from. If you want to test whether they prefer bottled water or ice cubes in their water, you could also try different types of water. If you want to assist your cat keep hydrated, you may want to try switching to wet food or including wet food into your cat’s diet as well.

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