Cats often exhibit a wide range of peculiar behaviors, and meowing before drinking water is one that can leave many owners puzzled. Unlike some other odd feline habits, this particular action can stem from a variety of underlying reasons, some of which may indicate a need for proactive intervention to ensure your cat’s health. Understanding these potential causes is crucial for pet owners aiming to provide the best care for their feline companions.
Cats, especially males, are prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) if they don’t consume enough water. These infections can become serious and even life-threatening, often requiring specialized diets and ongoing management. While female cats are less susceptible, UTIs can still occur. Therefore, ensuring adequate hydration is a critical aspect of feline healthcare. The author, for instance, implements several techniques to encourage water intake, including mixing water with kibble and utilizing an automatic feeder to guarantee sufficient hydration. This preamble highlights the importance of addressing potential water-related issues that might lead to health problems like UTIs.
Reasons Why Cats Meow Before Drinking
1. Dislike of Still Water
Similar to how humans have preferences for water temperature or taste, cats can be quite particular about their water. In the wild, they often preferred running water sources as they were less likely to be contaminated with bacteria or insects compared to stagnant water. This evolutionary preference may explain why some cats meow before drinking, potentially indicating a desire for running water. If your cat seems hesitant and vocalizes near faucets or showers, investing in a cat drinking fountain could be a solution. This addresses their natural inclination and can prevent dehydration-related health issues down the line.
2. Informing You of Their Intent to Drink
For some cats, the meow before drinking is a brief, almost polite notification. It might be accompanied by a paw dip into the water, possibly to gauge the water’s presence through ripples, as cats have excellent motion detection. This behavior could also be linked to a cat’s need for a sense of security. When drinking, cats are vulnerable as they cannot fully focus on their surroundings. Similar to how some cats meow before using the litter box, seeking a “guard” while they are exposed, they may meow before drinking to alert their human to watch over them.
3. The Water Bowl as a Toy
Certain cats, particularly kittens, may view their water bowl as a source of entertainment. This can lead to playful batting, spilling, or even dropping toys into the water. If your cat exhibits such behaviors, it might be accompanied by a meow that signals their intention to engage with the water bowl in a playful manner. Addressing this might involve using heavier, non-slip bowls or redirecting their playful energy to appropriate toys.
4. Dislike of the Water Bowl Material
The material of the water bowl can influence a cat’s drinking habits. Some cats, like humans, may dislike certain tastes, such as the metallic flavor from aluminum bowls. Ceramic bowls are often recommended, but using clean, human-grade dishware like tempered glass mugs or large soup bowls can also be an effective alternative. These are easy to keep clean and offer a familiar material for water consumption.
5. Inconvenient Water Bowl Height
The height of the water bowl can also play a role. While some cats don’t mind low bowls, many prefer elevated drinking stations, similar to mugs or cups. This can reduce strain on their necks. Utilizing human tableware like deep soup bowls or commercially available elevated cat bowls can satisfy this preference, potentially encouraging more water intake.
6. Unfavorable Water Bowl Placement
The location of the water bowl is significant, especially in multi-cat households. Placing a water bowl in a corner or facing a wall can make a cat feel vulnerable. If cats have a history of conflict or if one cat is particularly playful, a drinking cat could be easily startled or ambushed. Orienting the bowl to provide a clear view of the room can enhance a cat’s sense of security and encourage more frequent drinking.
7. Difficulty Seeing the Water Level
It can be challenging for cats to see the water level, especially in plain white bowls under bright light. This can lead to them missing their target and getting water on their face. Choosing bowls with patterns, distinct colors, or a non-uniform interior can make the water level more visible. Ensuring the area is adequately lit can also assist your cat in locating their water.
Your Cat’s Meows and Water Habits
Understanding why your cat meows before drinking water can significantly contribute to their overall health and well-being. By observing your cat’s specific behaviors and considering these potential reasons, you can make necessary adjustments to their water source, bowl, or its placement. This proactive approach can help prevent dehydration and related health issues, ensuring your feline friend stays happy and healthy. If you have noticed this behavior in your cat, consider which of these explanations might best fit their situation and feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.
