If you feel like your cat hardly drinks at all, you're not alone. It's very common, and there's an explanation. The good news is that with a few simple changes at home, most cats start drinking more.
Why do cats drink so little water?
Domestic cats descend from desert cats, which got almost all their water from the prey they hunted. That's why they don't feel very thirsty, and many drink less than they should, especially if they only eat dry food.
Drinking too little for years can affect their kidneys and urinary tract. If you notice changes in how much your cat drinks or how they urinate, talk to your vet: these tips help, but they don't replace a check-up.
Tip 1: a place for everything
- Water away from food. In the wild, water next to prey would be contaminated, and that instinct has stayed.
- And away from the litter box. Nobody wants to drink next to the bathroom.
Tip 2: the bowl matters
- Wide and shallow, so their very sensitive whiskers don't brush against the sides.
- Ceramic, glass or steel, better than plastic, which can pick up odors.
- Several water points around the house, in the areas where your cat spends the day.
- Moving water. Many cats are much more attracted to running water. That's why they drink from the tap, and that's why a fountain usually works so well.
Tip 3: water in their food too
- Wet food is about 80% water. Combining it with dry food is one of the most effective ways to keep your cat hydrated.
- Fresh water every day and a clean bowl. Nobody wants to drink water that has been sitting in the bowl for days.
How can you tell if your cat is drinking more?
Check the litter box: if you see bigger or more frequent urine clumps, your cat is drinking more. You can usually tell within a few days.
In our cat bowls and fountains section you'll find water fountains with filters, ceramic bowls and feeders.
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