Why do cats naturally drink little?
The ancestors of our domestic cats lived in arid regions where water was scarce. They obtained most of their moisture from their prey. As a result, cats evolved with a relatively low need to drink from a water bowl.
Many domestic cats today primarily receive dry food. This makes them more dependent on drinking water to get enough fluids.
A healthy cat drinks an average of 40 to 60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. The exact amount depends on factors such as diet, temperature, and activity.
Why is sufficient hydration so important?
Sufficient fluid helps with, among other things:
- proper kidney function;
- supporting the urinary tract;
- regulating body temperature;
- eliminating waste products.
If a cat consistently receives too little fluid, it can contribute to urinary tract problems or dehydration. If you notice that your cat hardly drinks, is lethargic, refuses to eat, or has other complaints, always contact a veterinarian.
10 practical tips to encourage your cat to drink more
1. Place multiple water bowls
Many cats prefer to drink in different places around the house rather than always from the same bowl. Therefore, place several water bowls, for example, in the living room, kitchen, and upstairs.
2. Keep water and food separate
Cats often prefer not to drink directly next to their food. In nature, water is usually not found next to prey. By placing the water bowl a few meters away from the food bowl, some cats drink more.
3. Change the water daily
Fresh water tastes more appealing to many cats. Regularly clean the water bowl and refill it with fresh drinking water every day.
4. Choose a spacious water bowl
Many cats dislike it when their whiskers touch the rim of the bowl. A wide, shallow water bowl can therefore be more comfortable.
5. Try a drinking fountain
Many cats prefer running water. A drinking fountain keeps the water constantly moving, which some cats find more appealing than still water.
Make sure the drinking fountain is cleaned regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
6. Occasionally offer wet food
Wet food contains significantly more moisture than dry food. This means a cat automatically gets extra fluids through its food.
Always discuss dietary changes with your veterinarian if your cat is on a special diet.
7. Place water in quiet areas
Cats like to drink without being disturbed. Therefore, do not place the water bowl near a busy passageway, noisy appliances, or the litter box.
8. Keep the water cool
On warm days, some cats find cool, fresh water more pleasant. Therefore, change the water more often if the temperature rises.
9. Experiment with different materials
Some cats have a clear preference for a ceramic, glass, or stainless steel water bowl. By trying out different materials, you can discover what your cat likes best.
10. Pay attention to changes in drinking behavior
Is your cat suddenly drinking much less or much more than usual? A change in drinking behavior can have various causes. Monitor this carefully and contact a veterinarian if in doubt.
When should you be concerned?
Contact a veterinarian if your cat:
- hardly drinks for several days;
- refuses to eat;
- is lethargic or listless;
- has difficulty urinating;
- has blood in their urine;
- suddenly drinks much more or much less than usual.
A veterinarian can investigate what is causing the changed drinking behavior.
While it's normal for cats to naturally drink little, sufficient hydration remains important for their health. By offering multiple drinking spots, changing the water daily, and creating an environment where your cat enjoys drinking, you can often easily encourage drinking.
If your cat continues to drink noticeably little or if their drinking behavior suddenly changes, always contact a veterinarian for a professional assessment.