Cat owners often notice that their cats do not seem to drink much. That is not always a problem, since cats evolved from desert-dwelling ancestors and get some of their water from food. Still, many veterinarians encourage helping cats take in enough water, especially cats who eat mostly dry food or who have certain health conditions. Spring, when homes warm up and cats become more active, is a good time to look at how your cat drinks.
Why it matters
Water supports digestion, temperature regulation and the work of the kidneys and urinary tract. For some cats, veterinarians specifically recommend increasing water intake as part of managing a health condition. If your veterinarian has given you advice for your cat, follow it first. The ideas below are general.
Changes in drinking can also be a sign of illness. If your cat suddenly drinks much more than usual, or stops drinking, call your veterinarian.
Make the bowl more appealing
Cats can be particular about how they drink. Small changes may help:
- Use a wide, shallow bowl. Some cats seem to dislike their whiskers brushing the sides of a narrow bowl.
- Try different materials. Ceramic, glass and stainless steel are easy to clean and do not hold odors the way some plastics can.
- Keep it fresh. Wash and refill bowls daily. Many cats prefer fresh water.
- Fill it to the brim. Some cats prefer to drink without lowering their heads deep into a bowl.
Location, location, location
Many cats prefer water placed away from their food. Some prefer it away from their sleeping areas as well. Try placing several bowls in different quiet spots around the house, including on different floors. In multi-cat homes, more stations can help shy cats avoid confrontations with more confident cats.
Moving water and food choices
Some cats are drawn to running water. You may already have a cat who begs at the faucet. A pet water fountain can provide a steady flow that some cats find more appealing. If you try one, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, change filters as directed and keep a regular bowl available while your cat gets used to it.
Diet plays a role too. Canned food contains much more moisture than dry food. Some owners feed a mix of canned and dry, or add water to food. Any change to your cat’s diet should be made gradually and discussed with your veterinarian, particularly if your cat has a health condition or is on a prescription diet.
A few additional ideas: offer ice cubes made of plain water as a toy, or set out a bowl in a sunny window where your cat likes to lounge. Every cat is an individual, so experiment patiently and notice what your cat responds to. Your veterinarian can help you decide whether your cat’s water intake is something to watch or something to address.
