Ensuring your feline companion stays adequately hydrated is fundamental to their health and well-being. While cats are adept at conserving water, inherited from their arid-dwelling ancestors, they are still susceptible to dehydration, which can trigger various health issues like constipation, lower urinary tract disease, and urinary blockages. This is particularly crucial for senior cats (11 years and older), whose kidneys require extra support to function optimally. It’s a common misconception that milk or cream can substitute for water; in reality, many cats are lactose intolerant and may become ill if they consume dairy products.
Essential Tips for Increasing Your Cat’s Water Intake
If you’re concerned your cat isn’t drinking enough, several effective strategies can encourage them to increase their water consumption. These methods aim to make water more accessible, appealing, and integrated into their daily routine.
1. Maintain a Daily Water Refreshment Schedule
Just as humans prefer a fresh glass of water, cats will appreciate a clean bowl replenished daily. Stale water can be unappetizing, discouraging them from drinking. Regularly changing the water ensures it remains fresh and inviting.
2. Strategic Placement of Water Bowls
Cats often prefer to drink in various locations throughout the house, mimicking their instinct to maintain distance from potential contaminants. By placing multiple water bowls in different areas, you increase the likelihood that your cat will find water readily available whenever they feel thirsty.
3. Experiment with Different Water Bowl Types
A cat’s preference for a specific type of bowl can significantly impact their drinking habits. Plastic and metal bowls can sometimes impart an undesirable taste to the water. Opting for ceramic or glass bowls is often a better choice. Many cats also prefer wide, shallow bowls, which allow them to drink without their whiskers brushing against the sides, enhancing their comfort and sense of security as they remain aware of their surroundings.
4. Introduce a Cat Water Fountain
The allure of moving water is a common trait among cats, explaining their fascination with dripping taps. Pet water fountains are designed to mimic this natural appeal, providing a continuous flow of fresh, oxygenated water that many cats find irresistible.
5. The Importance of Separating Water from Litter Trays
In a natural setting, cats instinctively keep their waste areas separate from their water sources to prevent contamination. This ancestral behavior persists in domestic cats. If possible, place litter trays in a different room from their water bowls to align with this instinct and encourage more frequent drinking.
6. Keep Food and Water Bowls Apart
Similar to their aversion to drinking near the litter box, cats also prefer not to drink immediately adjacent to their food. This behavior stems from their wild ancestors’ instinct to avoid the scent of prey remains contaminating their water. Designating separate areas for food and water bowls can make drinking more appealing.
7. Transition to Wet Food
Wet cat food has a significantly higher moisture content, typically around 70-80%, which contributes substantially to a cat’s daily water intake. If your cat primarily consumes dry kibble, they will naturally need to drink more water. When switching to wet food, introduce it gradually to prevent digestive upset.
8. Enhance Water Appeal with Flavor
Adding a small amount of tuna juice (ensure it’s packed in water, not oil) or low-sodium chicken broth to your cat’s water can make it more enticing. Be mindful of the salt content, as excessive sodium is detrimental to a cat’s health.
Understanding Why Cats May Drink Less
A common practice is placing water bowls next to food bowls, which goes against a cat’s natural inclination to separate eating, drinking, and elimination areas. This separation instinct, rooted in their wildcat ancestry, helps prevent contamination. Additionally, their preference for wide bowls and running water can influence intake.
If you notice any changes in your cat’s drinking habits, it could signal an underlying medical issue. Consulting with your veterinarian is crucial to rule out any health concerns.
Monitoring Your Cat’s Water Intake
To accurately track your cat’s daily water consumption:
- Start by filling a measuring jug with a known amount of water and record this volume.
- Pour this water into your cat’s designated bowls.
- At the end of the day, measure the remaining water in the jug and record the amount.
- Subtract the leftover water from the initial amount to determine how much your cat has drunk.
Alternatively, automated water bowls like Sure Petcare’s Felaqua® Connect can simplify this process. These smart devices not only monitor water intake but also automatically refill the bowl with fresh water, providing convenience and peace of mind.
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