By Richard Rowlands on August 10, 2023
If you’re a cat owner, you know that getting your feline friend to drink enough water can sometimes seem like a challenge. Most cats, unlike dogs, are not heavy drinkers. This can be a concern as proper hydration is essential to their overall health and helps prevent urinary tract problems and kidney disease.
In this article, we’ll share five creative and effective ways to encourage your cat to drink more water. Whether it’s using a cat water fountain or making the water more appealing, these strategies can help ensure your cat stays well hydrated, even when you’re not home to check on them.
1) Use a cat water fountain
Cats are naturally intrigued by flowing water. A cat water fountain can stimulate this interest and encourage more frequent drinking. These fountains provide a continuous stream of fresh water, which not only attracts cats, but also ensures that they have access to clean water at all times.
When choosing a fountain, consider factors such as noise level, ease of cleaning, and durability. Some fountains come with filters to ensure the water stays fresh, while others have adjustable flow settings to suit your cat’s preferences. The sight and sound of running water can be very appealing to cats, making a water fountain a great investment for their hydration needs.
2) Add water to their food
One of the easiest ways to increase your cat’s water intake is to add water to their food. If your cat eats wet food, they already receive a good amount of water. But if they are on a dry diet, consider adding a little water to the kibble.
Start with a small amount to see how your cat reacts, and gradually increase it if she doesn’t mind the change. This can be especially beneficial for cats that are picky drinkers, as they may not even notice the excess water in their food. Additionally, the added moisture can make the dry food tastier and easier to chew, which can be a benefit for older cats or those with dental issues.
3) Place several bowls of water around the house
Cats love to explore and having multiple water sources can pique their curiosity and encourage them to drink more. Place several water bowls around your home, especially in areas where your cat spends most of its time.
Remember to keep bowls clean to make them more welcoming to your cat. Cats have a very keen sense of smell and can be put off by bowls that are not cleaned regularly. Try to refresh the water at least once a day and wash bowls regularly to prevent bacteria and algae buildup.
4) Try different types of water bowls
Believe it or not, the type of water bowl can affect your cat’s drinking habits. Some cats may prefer a certain material, such as ceramic or stainless steel, to plastic. Others might be more comfortable with shallow bowls that don’t touch their whiskers.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of bowls to see which one your cat prefers. For example, some cats prefer to drink from wide, shallow dishes, while others prefer tall, narrow bowls. The key is to observe your cat’s behavior and adapt accordingly.
5) Make water more attractive
If your cat is particularly finicky about drinking water, consider making it more appealing. Adding a little flavor to the water, such as a little low-sodium bone broth or chicken broth, can entice your cat to drink more.
Just make sure all additives are safe and suitable for cats, and always provide a bowl of clean water as well. It’s also important to note that while flavored water may encourage drinking, it should not replace fresh, clean water as your primary source of hydration.
Is your cat drinking enough water?
Ensuring your cat stays well hydrated is crucial to their health and well-being. Without water, cats can become severely dehydrated in just 2-3 daysit is therefore essential to ensure that they drink enough.
Remember that every cat is unique and what works for one may not work for another. It’s all about finding the strategies that work best for your feline friend. And as always, if you have any concerns about your cat’s hydration or overall health, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian.
About the Author:
Richard is a writer and content creator who works with pet and veterinarian businesses. When he’s not researching, writing or creating content plans, he enjoys spending time with his rescue dog, Otto, and exploring new places. Discover his Blog for discerning pet parents.