Is your cat drinking enough water? Simple ways to keep your cat hydrated

Cats aren’t always big drinkers. Unlike dogs, you may rarely notice your cat standing at their water bowl for long periods, and that can make it difficult to know whether they’re drinking enough.

As the weather warms up, keeping an eye on your cat’s hydration becomes particularly important. Water plays a vital role in regulating body temperature, supporting digestion and helping the body transport nutrients.

The good news is that there are plenty of simple ways to encourage your cat to drink more throughout the day.

Why don’t cats drink much water?

Modern domestic cats descended from desert-dwelling ancestors that obtained much of their moisture through the food they ate. According to veterinary professionals at VCA Animal Hospitals, this means cats naturally tend to conserve water efficiently and may drink less frequently than other pets.

Diet can also make a considerable difference.

Cats eating wet food receive a relatively large amount of moisture through their meals, whereas cats predominantly eating dry food generally need to obtain more of their water by drinking. Vca

Every cat is different, so factors such as their diet, size, activity level, environment and general health can all influence how much they need to drink.

Why hydration matters

Water supports almost every major function in your cat’s body.

It helps with:

• regulating body temperature
• digestion
• transporting nutrients around the body
• supporting normal organ function
• maintaining healthy joints and tissues
• normal urinary function

Adequate water intake is also particularly important for cats with certain urinary or kidney conditions. VCA veterinarians note that increasing water intake may be recommended for some cats with conditions such as bladder stones or chronic kidney disease.

1. Keep fresh water available throughout the day

It sounds simple, but regularly replacing your cat’s water can make a difference.

Cats can be particular about the smell, taste and freshness of their drinking water. Wash their bowls regularly and replace old water with fresh water each day.

During warmer weather, check bowls more frequently, particularly if they’re positioned somewhere warm or sunny.

2. Try more than one water bowl

One bowl in the kitchen may not be enough to tempt every cat.

Try placing several water stations around your home, particularly in areas your cat spends a lot of time in. A quiet location near their favourite resting area may be more appealing than a bowl positioned in a noisy or busy part of the house.

Veterinary professionals also recommend keeping drinking water away from litter trays.

For multi-cat households, having multiple water sources can also give each cat easier access without having to compete with another pet.

3. Experiment with different bowls

Sometimes the problem isn’t the water — it’s the bowl.

Some cats may prefer:

• wide, shallow bowls
• ceramic bowls
• stainless-steel bowls
• glass bowls

A wider bowl can also reduce the likelihood of your cat’s whiskers repeatedly touching the sides while they’re drinking.

Try a few different options and see which one your cat naturally gravitates towards.

4. Consider a cat water fountain

The moving water from a fountain can be more interesting to some cats than still water in a bowl.

VCA veterinary professionals recommend fountains as one option for encouraging additional water intake, particularly for cats that seem interested in running taps.

If you use one, remember that fountains still need regular cleaning. Filters should also be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions to help keep the water fresh.

5. Add more moisture through their food

Your cat doesn’t necessarily have to obtain all their hydration by drinking.

Wet cat food contains substantially more moisture than dry kibble, which means cats eating wet food may naturally receive more water through their diet.

Depending on your cat’s dietary needs, your vet may also suggest adding a small amount of water to their food.

Any significant change to your cat’s diet should be introduced gradually, particularly if they’re prone to digestive upset or have an existing medical condition.

6. Try different water temperatures

Cats have individual preferences just like we do.

Some may prefer cool water, while others seem happier drinking water closer to room temperature.

If your cat regularly ignores their bowl, experimenting with the temperature is an easy change that may help. VCA veterinarians include trying different water temperatures among their suggestions for encouraging cats to drink more.

7. Keep water accessible during warmer weather

Australian spring and summer temperatures can climb quickly, particularly inside homes without strong airflow.

Make sure your cat always has access to fresh water and cool, shaded areas.

If your cat spends time in a secure outdoor enclosure or cat run, place water in the shade and check it throughout the day. Avoid leaving their only water source somewhere exposed to direct sunlight.

Signs your cat may be dehydrated

Dehydration can occur for a number of reasons, including illness, vomiting, diarrhoea or insufficient fluid intake.

Veterinary professionals list possible signs including:

• lethargy
• reduced appetite
• dry or tacky gums
• reduced skin elasticity
• sunken-looking eyes

If you’re concerned that your cat may be dehydrated, or they’re refusing both food and water, contact your veterinarian promptly.

What if your cat suddenly starts drinking much more?

Drinking more water isn’t always a sign that your hydration efforts are working.

A significant or unexplained increase in thirst can sometimes be associated with medical conditions including kidney disorders, diabetes or hyperthyroidism.

If you notice a clear change in how often your cat drinks, how much they’re urinating, their appetite or their weight, speak with your vet.

Knowing what is normal for your own cat can make changes easier to spot.

Keep hydration part of your cat’s everyday routine

Keeping your cat hydrated doesn’t have to mean constantly following them around with a water bowl.

Fresh water, multiple drinking locations, wet food and experimenting with bowls or fountains can all make drinking more appealing.

As the weather warms up, a few small adjustments around the home can help make sure your cat always has access to the water they need.

And while good everyday care can help support your cat’s health, unexpected illnesses and injuries can still happen. Having pet insurance in place can help you feel more prepared when your cat needs veterinary care.