Cat Hydration Tips: Easy Ways to Help Your Cat Drink
Many cats drink very little water on their own. That is partly down to their ancestry, since cats evolved in dry places and got much of their water from prey. Today’s cats often need a little help.
Why hydration matters
Water supports everyday body function. Vets often discuss hydration in connection with urinary health and with older cats. If you notice a change in thirst, speak to your vet, because drinking more or less can be a sign of something that needs checking.
How much is normal?
There is no single figure that suits every cat. Water intake depends on diet, size, weather and health. A cat on dry food usually drinks more than one on wet food, because wet food is mostly water.
What matters most is your cat’s normal. Sudden changes, in either direction, deserve a vet call.
Tip 1: add wet food
Wet food contains a lot of water. Many owners offer wet food for at least one meal a day. Ask your vet what mix suits your cat’s age and health. Switch gradually over several days.
Tip 2: offer several water stations
Cats like choice. Put bowls in different rooms, away from food and litter trays. Cats often avoid water next to their food, which is an instinct about keeping water clean.
Tip 3: try different bowls
- Choose wide, shallow bowls so whiskers do not touch the sides
- Try ceramic, glass or stainless steel. Some cats dislike plastic smells
- Fill bowls to the brim, since some cats do not like reaching down
Tip 4: try a fountain
Many cats prefer moving water. A pet fountain can encourage drinking. Clean it often. Biofilm builds up quickly, and filters need replacing.
Tip 5: keep water fresh
Change water at least daily, and wash bowls with warm soapy water. Rinse well so no soap smell remains. Cats are sensitive to smell and taste.
Tip 6: add flavour carefully
Some owners add a spoonful of water to wet food or make a thin “gravy” with warm water. Only use products made for cats. Avoid anything with onion, garlic or added salt. Check with your vet before trying other additions.
Tip 7: make drinking part of play
Some cats like dripping taps, ice cubes in a bowl or a small water dish to paw at. Always supervise with anything new.
Tip 8: think about the older cat
Older cats may drink less if reaching the bowl is hard. Put water on each floor and keep it easy to get to. Wide, low bowls are kinder on stiff joints.
Signs that need a vet visit
Do not wait if you notice:
- Drinking much more than usual
- Drinking much less or none
- Dry or sticky gums
- Sunken eyes or lethargy
- Straining in the litter tray or going often with little result
- Vomiting or loss of appetite
Straining or crying in the litter tray, especially in male cats, can be an emergency. Call a vet at once.
A quick skin test? Be careful
You may have heard of the “skin tent” test for dehydration. It is not reliable at home, especially in older or thin cats. Rely on behaviour and vet advice instead.
Supplements and additives
Some products claim to boost hydration or urinary health. Ask your vet first. Never give cats products made for dogs or people. See our post on why dog supplements are not for cats.
Make it a routine
- Offer wet food regularly.
- Place fresh water in several spots.
- Use wide, shallow bowls.
- Try a fountain.
- Watch drinking and litter habits.
A few small changes can make water more appealing. Cats appreciate patience, so test one change at a time and see what your own cat prefers.
Give it time
Cats can be slow to accept changes. If a new bowl or fountain is ignored, leave it in place for a week and keep the old bowl nearby. Introduce one change at a time so you can tell what works. Note it down, and share the notes at your next vet visit.
What to do next
PAWER is for dogs today. It is not for cats, and we never suggest giving it to one. Ask your vet about anything you add to your cat’s routine.
- Join the waitlist for updates
- If you also have a dog, see PAWER for dogs
General information for pet owners. Not veterinary advice.