One of the most important things that cat owners need to do is make sure that their feline friends are getting enough water.
Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, urinary tract infections, and even kidney problems. So, how can you get your cat to drink more water?
Historically Cats Don’t Drink Much
Cats evolved in arid environments where water was scarce, so they developed a low thirst drive. In the wild, cats would get most of their water from the prey they hunted, and they didn’t need to drink much water to survive.
Cats have a Lack of Thirst Drive
Cats have a lower thirst drive than many other animals, including dogs. This means that they may not feel thirsty even when they are dehydrated. This can lead to them not drinking enough water to maintain good health.
Aged Cats Drink Less
As cats age, their thirst drive may decrease even further, which can make it even harder for them to get enough water. This can lead to a higher risk of dehydration and health problems.
7 Techniques to Get Kitty to Drink More
- Provide clean and fresh water: The first step in getting your cat to drink more water is to provide them with clean and fresh water. Cats can be very particular about their water, so make sure that you change their water bowl daily, and that it is always full of fresh water. Consider investing in a water fountain that keeps the water moving and fresh. Many cats prefer moving water to still water, and a fountain may encourage them to drink more.
- Add water to their food: Another way to get your cat to drink more water is to add water to their food. This is particularly helpful if your cat is on a dry food diet, as dry food doesn’t provide as much moisture as wet food. Start by adding a small amount of water to your cat’s food and gradually increase the amount over time. You can also try adding low-sodium chicken or beef broth to their food for added flavor.
- Provide wet food: If your cat is not already on a wet food diet, consider switching them over. Wet food contains more moisture than dry food, which can help keep your cat hydrated. You can also try adding some warm water to their wet food to increase the moisture content even further.
- Use a different water bowl: Cats can be very picky about their water bowls. Some cats prefer ceramic bowls, while others prefer stainless steel. Some cats even prefer drinking out of a glass. Try experimenting with different types of bowls to see which one your cat prefers. You can also try using a shallow bowl or a wide-brimmed dish, as some cats don’t like their whiskers touching the sides of the bowl.
- Make it fun: Cats are curious creatures and often enjoy playing with things. Consider getting a water fountain. You can also try adding ice cubes to your cat’s water bowl or freezing a toy in a block of ice for them to play with.
- Multiple water sources: Some cats prefer to drink from different sources throughout the day. Make sure that you have multiple water bowls throughout your house. You can also try putting water bowls in areas where your cat likes to spend time, such as near their favorite sleeping spot.
- Different types of water: Some cats prefer different types of water. For example, some cats prefer bottled water over tap water. You can try offering your cat different types of water to see which one they prefer. Just make sure that any bottled water you offer is safe for cats to drink.
Here’s another kitty article you’ll like: Why Do Cats Drink from a Faucet: 5 Reasons for the Slurping
It’s important to monitor your cat’s water intake. If you’re not sure how much water your cat is drinking, keep a log of how much water you’re putting in their bowl each day and how much is left at the end of the day.
If you notice that your cat is drinking significantly less than usual, it’s important to consult your veterinarian, as this can be a sign of an underlying health problem.
Encouraging your cat to drink more water can be a challenge, but it’s important for their overall health and well-being.