How to Get a Cat to Drink Water for Better Health & Well Being

Just like humans, cats need a lot of fresh water to stay hydrated. They cannot tolerate being away from water for a long time. Water helps their fur soft, gums moist, eyes clean and sharp. At the same time, it prevents constipation in cats. How to get a cat to drink water is an important responsibility that you should not overlook.

This guide will tell you about the best tips and techniques about drinking water for your pet animal. Regular intake of water allows proper urination and prevents bladder infection in the urinary tracts. Today’s modern cats eat a lot of kitty chow with dry food products.

Presenting water to them might be a challenge because some cats are really very finicky about water bowls. The best way to get your pet drink more water is to provide him a source s/he is attracted. Fresh water is all it takes for your pet to remain hydrated for the entire day.

So what comprises a good source of drinking that cats find attracting and enjoy? The answer to this question lies in two parts. The first one addresses the basic needs of the cat. It includes what is ideal for cat and whether they are attracted to it or not. The other one has to do with individual preferences for the owner and pet animal.

Why Isn’t My Cat Drinking Water Like Before?

If your cat refuses to drink regular water, there could be a few reasons for this change in behavior. Cats are known to be sensitive to the taste and smell of water, so it’s possible that something has changed in the drinking water that is now unappealing to your cat.

As pet parents, we need to ensure that our cats have access to clean and fresh water at all times. It might be helpful to try offering your cat filtered water to see if they show more interest in drinking. Check your cat’s gums to see if you notice any signs of dehydration, such as dryness or stickiness.

Dehydration can be a serious issue for cats and may be a reason why they are avoiding salt water. If you suspect dehydration, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian for further guidance and to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Your cat’s whiskers are known to be sensitive and can play a role in their water preferences. Some cats may not like the sensation of their whiskers touching the sides of a narrow water bowl or dish. Consider providing a wider, shallower dish for your cat to drink from, allowing them to comfortably access the water without any whisker discomfort.

Water Bowl vs. Running Water: Which One is Best

We tend to think that giving a bowl of water will satisfy the drinking needs of a cat. It turns out that this is exactly not the case. Canned food can help the situation but many wet food does not have proper hydration level. Cats don’t like standing water and are not attracted toward them.

These types of animals seek moving water and water fountain is an ideal thing. Choosing your cat’s water intake from the fountain is the best solution. It continuously circulates water from a bowl through pipe system. At the same time it purifies the water giving the fresh taste your cat years for.

Plastic fountains are not recommended for feeding water to the cats. The reason being it contains a lot of chemicals which is harmful for animals. Chin acne is a common disease that is caused by feeding from plastic fountains.

Do Water Fountains Help Your Cat’s Drinking Habits?

You can opt for ceramic fountains because water is kept cool and not chilled. There is no metal involved and cats like the taste of water. It has several positive attributes as compared to the plastic ones.

Ceramics does not scratch and there is no possibility of bacteria growth. At the same time the ceramics have stoneware with certified food-safe glazes. It keeps the water cool, fresh and properly oxygenated. It is far greater in value and will last a very long time with reasonable care.

A large number of vets recommend ceramic fountains to feed water to pet animals these days. It will encourage your cat to drink more water and she will remain hydrated throughout the day.

Importance of Water for Cats

The cat behaviourists are still unsure about why cats have a distinct preference towards running water. One reason can be the taste and the other can be the cat’s attraction towards motion element of moving water.

How to get your cat to drink water? You will have to look beyond those fancy bowls if you want your cat to drink fluid properly. Get her a ceramic fountain with stone glaze and you will never have to worry again about feeding her water. It tastes great and is also beneficial for good health and well-being of your cat.

Make sure that your cat is drinking plenty of water otherwise it can lead to several health complications. Always remember that dehydration will shorten your pet’s life no matter how much human care you shower on your cat.

Exactly How Much Water Does A Cat Need To Drink?

Your feline friend needs to drink an adequate amount of water to stay hydrated and maintain optimal health. The amount of water a cat needs to drink can vary depending on various factors, such as their age, size, diet, and activity level.

It is generally recommended that cats consume around 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day. Elderly cats may require more water due to their decreased kidney function, while kittens may need less as they obtain moisture from their mother’s milk.

Cats on a dry food diet may need to drink more water compared to those on a wet cat food diet, as it contains a higher water content. Wild cats also need to consume enough water so that their body temperature can be regulated and to aid in digestion.

Can The Cat’s Water Intake Help Prevent Kidney Disease?

Most cats that have medical conditions can benefit from increased water intake, including kidney disease. Adequate hydration can help prevent the formation of kidney stones and promote healthy kidney function.

Water intake can hep flush out any bladder stones or kidney stones from your cat’s urinary system, reducing the risk of blockages and potential complications. Additionally, sufficient water intake can dilute the concentration of toxins in the kidneys, aiding in their proper filtration and reducing the strain on these vital organs.

Does Wet Food Helps Improve The Cat’s Diet?

Eating wet food can help improve a cat’s diet in several ways. A dry food diet can constipate cats, as it lacks the necessary moisture to aid in digestion. Wet cat food can help prevent this issue and promote regular bowel movements.

Canned foods can contain a variety of flavors and textures, providing cats with a more enjoyable eating experience. This can be especially beneficial for older cats or those with dental issues, as the soft texture of wet food makes it easier to chew and digest.

Tuna juice, clam juice, or chicken broth, is known to be particularly enticing to cats and can be added to dry food or used as a treat to encourage picky eaters. These liquids not only add flavor but also provide additional hydration, which is important for maintaining a cat’s urinary tract health.

7 Tips to Entice your Pet to Drink More Water

Many cats don’t drink sufficient water and owners always look for solutions getting a cat to drink water. To entice a cat to drink water takes a little bit of trial and error.

Once the magical combination is found, there will not be any problems ahead. Mentioned below are some tips that can encourage your pet to drink water:

Different Water Types

Cats have their own taste, and they might like tap water, distilled water, or mineral water. Put several bowls of different types of water in them to see which one she prefers. Flowing water can help your cat.stay hydrated and encourage them to drink more.

Consider investing in a cat water fountain, as the movement of the water can be enticing for cats and mimic their natural instinct to drink from running sources. Bottled water is known to be safe for cats to drink as it goes through a filtration process.

However, it is important to check the mineral content of the bottled water, as some brands may contain high levels of minerals that could be harmful to your cat’s overall health. Plus, providing clean water daily and regularly cleaning your cat’s water bowls can help ensure their hydration and overall well-being.

If your cat prefers to drink out of a plastic water bowl, then it is important to choose a BPA-free bowl to avoid any potential health risks associated with plastic. Moreover, monitoring your kitty’s water intake and encouraging them to drink more by adding wet food or using a fountain can help prevent dehydration and urinary tract issues.

The Cat’s Water Bowl

The type of food bowl can make a huge difference. Ceramic or stainless steel bowls are very successful. And it does not emit any smell, and cats are attracted to it.

Shallow bowls canbe a good choice for cats as they don’t like their whiskers touching the sides of the bowl while eating. Additionally, bowls with a non-slip base can prevent spills and keep the water bowl in place, ensuring that cats can comfortably drink without any inconvenience.

Most cat bowls tend to accumulate dirt and bacteria over time, so it’s important to regularly clean and sanitize them to maintain your cat’s health. Some cat owners also prefer using elevated bowls to promote better posture and digestion for their cats.

Some plastic bowls may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the food or water, so it’s recommended to choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls instead. These materials are not only safer for your cat but also easier to clean and maintain.

Clean and fresh water supply

The water bowl should be regularly cleaned with hot, soapy water. It will promote cleanliness because cats do not like drinking from dirty bowls.

Place a few ice cubes on your cat’s water bowls to help clear some of the bacteria that may be present. Furthermore, consider using a water fountain specifically designed for cats, as tap water is more appealing to them and encourages increased hydration.

Water bowl location

These animals have their own preference where they want their water placed. Try placing food bowls at different parts of your home to learn about your pet’s preference.

A raised bowl can help increase the water consumption of some animals, such as cats, who may prefer a higher vantage point. Also, keeping the water bowl away from their food dish can prevent contamination and encourage them to drink more water throughout the day.

Use Multiple Water Bowls For Multiple Cats

If you have more than one cat in your home, use different water bowls for feedings. No cat likes sharing her water bowl with another cat in the family.

Water consumption is essential for a cat’s overall health and well-being, and having multiple water bowls ensures that each cat has easy access to fresh water at all times. Try using an elevated bowl with enough water to accommodate each cat’s needs.

Other cats prefer to drink from a height, as it mimics their natural behavior of drinking from streams or rivers. This can also help prevent any discomfort or strain on their necks while drinking, especially for older cats or those with arthritis.

Try Using A Food Additive

If your cat does not drink proper water, you need to opt for food additive. Go for canned or wet food as they contain water and your cat will remain hydrated.

Low sodium chicken broth can also be added to your cat’s food to increase their water intake. Additionally, consider using a water fountain specifically designed for pets, as the flowing water may encourage your cat to drink more.

Your cat’s body weight can drastically affect their water intake, so it’s important to monitor their weight and adjust their diet accordingly. If you notice any signs of dehydration, such as dry gums or lethargy, consult your veterinarian for further guidance.

Implement a Wet Food Diet

Your cat’s health can be improved by implementing a wet food diet. Wet food is higher in moisture content, which helps to keep your cat hydrated and supports their urinary tract health.

Additionally, it provides a more natural and balanced diet for your cat, as it closely resembles the moisture-rich prey they would consume in the wild.

Should You Clean Your Pet Bowls With Your Water Dishes?

A water dish can be used solely for providing water to your pet, while a pet bowl is typically used for feeding. Therefore, it is generally recommended to keep them separate and clean them separately as well.

Most plastic dishes are easy to clean and can be washed with warm, soapy water. However, if you choose to use the same dish for both water and food, it is important to wash it thoroughly after each meal to prevent bacterial growth and contamination.

A litter box is a great addition because it can provide a designated area for your pet to relieve themselves. This can help maintain cleanliness in your home and make it easier for you to clean up after them.

Last Updated on 13/02/2024 by Karen Snow