Cats absolutely do drink water. In fact, it's crucial for their survival, making up roughly 60–70% of their body weight. While media often shows cats lapping up a bowl of milk, most cats can't properly digest dairy, so water is the healthiest choice. Despite water's importance, some cats don't enjoy drinking from a still or standing bowl. This can lead to dehydration, so it's vital to keep an eye on how much water your cat is actually consuming.
Why Is Proper Hydration Important for Cats?
Hydration ensures a balance of electrolytes, minerals, and fluids in the feline body, influencing everything from organ health and nutrient transport to blood circulation and digestion. Drinking enough water can also decrease the risk of urinary stones and help kidneys flush out toxins. Each cat has individual likes and dislikes regarding water, so you may have to experiment with different approaches to encourage adequate hydration.
What Causes Dehydration in Cats?
Dehydration may stem from a cat's genetic background: domestic cats evolved from desert-dwelling ancestors, so they have a relatively low thirst drive. Complicating matters is feline near-sightedness, which makes it challenging for them to discern the surface of still water. When they do lap from a bowl, their tongues form a J-shape that scoops up a small column of water—an inefficient method that yields only about 3/100 of a teaspoon per lap.*
Cats also tend to prefer fresh, moving water, making them more likely to reject a stagnant water source. Health conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or diarrhea increase the risk of dehydration.
Signs of Dehydration in Cats
If your cat avoids her water bowl, watch for the following signs of dehydration:
- Dry gums
- Lethargy or signs of depression
- Diminished appetite
- Reduced skin elasticity (skin "tenting")
- Elevated heart rate
Skin tenting can be tested by gently pinching the skin over the cat's shoulders; if it remains pinched upon release, your cat may be dehydrated. A veterinarian can administer fluids, diagnose underlying issues, and offer guidance on preventing future dehydration.
How Much Water Should a Cat Drink?
The amount of water a cat needs varies by weight and diet. Cats who eat primarily dry food require more water than those who consume wet food. Still, cats' unique tongue shape and low thirst drive make it tough for them to stay optimally hydrated. It's also possible for some cats to drink too much; in those cases, conditions like feline hyperthyroidism or diabetes may be a factor.
How to Get a Cat to Drink More Water
Encouraging cats to drink can be tricky, so it often takes some trial and error:
1.Choose the Right Bowl: Deep, narrow bowls might be uncomfortable because they can irritate a cat's whiskers. A wide, shallow dish with a smaller rim might entice your cat to drink more.
2.Pick the Perfect Spot: Cats dislike feeling trapped. Placing water bowls in a low-traffic area but with a clear line of sight can make them more comfortable about drinking.
3.Keep It Fresh: Cats can taste stale water. Refill bowls with fresh water at least once or twice a day to boost hydration appeal.
4.Try a Water Fountain: Flowing water is more stimulating to a cat's senses. A cat fountain lets them see and hear the water move, which often encourages more frequent drinking.
5.Add Wet Food or Broths: Including canned cat food or broths in your cat's diet can increase total fluid intake, though it doesn't replace water altogether.
For cats that remain reluctant drinkers, a veterinarian may suggest hydration supplements or other methods to boost water intake. Ultimately, maintaining proper hydration supports your cat's overall health and happiness.