It’s easy to assume that your cat is drinking plenty of water, but cats can be surprisingly picky when it comes to staying hydrated. Because cats descended from desert animals, they naturally have a low thirst drive and get a lot of moisture from food. But if they’re eating mainly dry food or living in a warm home, they still need to drink enough water every day to stay healthy.
So how can you tell if your cat is drinking enough, and what can you do if they’re not?
How much water should a cat drink?
The short answer is that a healthy cat needs roughly 50 to 70 millilitres of water per kilogram of body weight each day. That means a 4 kilogram cat should drink around 200 to 280 millilitres daily.
However, this can change depending on:
-
Whether they eat wet or dry food
-
How warm your house is
-
Their activity level
-
Any health conditions they might have, like kidney disease
Signs your cat might be dehydrated
Spotting dehydration in cats isn’t always easy, but there are a few signs to look out for. You might notice:
-
Dry or sticky gums
-
Sunken eyes
-
Lethargy or low energy
-
Loss of appetite
-
Skin that doesn’t spring back quickly when gently lifted at the back of the neck
If you see these signs, it’s best to check with your vet. Dehydration can sometimes be a sign of a more serious health issue.
Ways to encourage your cat to drink more water
Offer fresh water daily
Cats often refuse water that’s been sitting around for too long. Make sure you change their water at least once a day and clean the bowl regularly.
Try different bowls
Some cats dislike plastic bowls because they can hold smells. Ceramic, glass or stainless steel bowls are often a better choice.
Invest in a water fountain
Cats are often fascinated by moving water. A cat fountain or running tap can encourage them to drink more and keep the water fresh.
Place bowls around the house
Put water bowls in different spots around your home, away from litter trays and food bowls. It gives your cat more chances to drink whenever they feel like it.
Feed wet food
Wet cat food contains a lot of moisture, helping to keep your cat hydrated without relying entirely on water bowls.
Add flavour
Adding a little low-sodium chicken broth or the water from a can of tuna might tempt your cat to drink more. Jucst use these extras sparingly and avoid anything salty or seasoned.
Keep an eye on drinking habits
The most important thing you can do is watch how much your cat drinks day to day. Any sudden increase or drop in thirst can be a sign of health problems like diabetes or kidney disease.
If you ever feel unsure, it’s always worth checking in with your vet. A well-hydrated cat is a healthy cat, and a few small changes can make all the difference.