Cats are known for being finicky drinkers. Unlike dogs, they are not naturally inclined to drink a lot of water, which can lead to dehydration and health issues like urinary tract infections and kidney disease. Ensuring your feline friend stays well-hydrated is one of the most important — and sometimes overlooked — aspects of their care.
In this article, you’ll learn practical and easy-to-implement tricks to encourage your cat to drink more water daily, creating habits that support long-term health and well-being.
Why Hydration Matters for Cats
Cats evolved from desert animals, which is one reason they don’t instinctively drink much water. In the wild, they would meet most of their hydration needs through prey. Domestic cats, especially those on dry food diets, can struggle to get enough fluids. Dehydration in cats may lead to:
- Urinary tract issues (like crystals or infections)
- Kidney problems
- Constipation
- Lethargy
- Poor appetite
Cats need about 50–60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. For a 4 kg (9 lb) cat, that’s approximately 200–240 ml daily.
Signs Your Cat May Be Dehydrated
Keep an eye out for the following signs:
- Dry gums or sticky saliva
- Sunken eyes
- Lethargy or weakness
- Skin tenting (when skin doesn’t snap back quickly)
- Decreased appetite
- Less frequent urination
If you notice these symptoms, especially more than one at a time, contact your vet for evaluation.
1. Offer Multiple Water Sources
One bowl may not be enough. Cats can be particular about where and how they drink water. Try placing bowls in several areas around your home, especially in places your cat frequents.
Placement Tips:
- Keep water away from litter boxes and food bowls.
- Avoid high-traffic or noisy areas.
- Try placing a bowl near a window or favorite lounging spot.
Cats appreciate variety and may surprise you by choosing one location over others.
2. Use a Pet Water Fountain
Many cats prefer moving water — it seems fresher and cleaner to them. A pet water fountain mimics a stream or faucet, often enticing even the pickiest drinkers.
Benefits:
- Filters water for a cleaner taste
- Moving water prevents stagnation
- Some fountains offer multiple flow settings to suit preferences
Remember to clean the fountain regularly to avoid bacterial buildup.
3. Offer Different Types of Bowls
Believe it or not, the material and shape of a water bowl can make a big difference. Some cats dislike certain bowl textures or shapes that touch their whiskers.
Bowl Tips:
- Use ceramic, glass, or stainless steel bowls (avoid plastic)
- Choose wide, shallow bowls to prevent whisker fatigue
- Test different sizes and depths
If your cat avoids one bowl, offer another style nearby.
4. Flavor the Water
Just like humans might enjoy a lemon wedge in their drink, cats may respond to lightly flavored water — especially if it smells like something tasty.
Safe Additions (in moderation):
- A splash of low-sodium chicken or tuna broth
- Ice cubes made from broth
- A teaspoon of water from a can of tuna (in water, not oil)
Always avoid artificial sweeteners or heavily seasoned broths.
5. Incorporate Wet Food
One of the easiest ways to boost hydration is by feeding wet or canned cat food. It contains up to 80% moisture, significantly more than dry kibble.
Tips:
- Mix canned food with a small amount of warm water to create a soupy texture
- Feed part wet and part dry food if your cat prefers a combination
- Try offering different flavors or textures to encourage interest
Gradually transition if your cat is new to wet food to avoid digestive upset.
6. Ice Cubes and Cold Water
Some cats enjoy batting around or licking ice cubes. It’s a playful and refreshing way to boost water intake.
Try This:
- Drop a cube in their bowl
- Freeze small bits of fish or treats in water to make pet-friendly popsicles
- Offer chilled water, especially in hot weather
Just ensure the cubes are clean and small enough to be safe.
7. Make Water Fun
Cats love novelty. Turning hydration into a game can help make water more appealing.
Fun Ideas:
- Let them drink from a dripping faucet under supervision
- Create an “ice cube chase” game on hard floors
- Offer water in unusual containers like shot glasses, ramekins, or mugs
Some cats love to explore and may prefer drinking from a glass instead of a bowl.
8. Create Routine Around Water
Build a daily ritual around hydration. Offer fresh water at the same times each day — such as during meals, after play, or before bedtime.
You can also:
- Replace water twice a day to keep it fresh
- Praise or pet your cat after they drink
- Use a feeding schedule that integrates wet food and water-rich treats
Cats respond well to routines and may begin associating these times with positive experiences.
9. Add Water-Rich Treats
There are treats designed with hydration in mind. Many come as purees, soft chews, or squeezable snacks.
Popular Choices:
- Pureed meat snacks
- Broth-based lickable treats
- Freeze-dried meats rehydrated with water
These options hydrate and reward at the same time, especially helpful for finicky eaters.
10. Monitor Intake and Behavior
Keep a close eye on your cat’s water habits, especially if you notice changes. Use a measuring cup to track how much they drink or opt for fountains with built-in monitors.
If your cat suddenly stops drinking or starts drinking excessively, consult your vet promptly.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact
Encouraging your cat to drink more water isn’t about forcing the habit — it’s about making it natural, fun, and appealing. From providing more water stations and switching to wet food, to adding flavor or offering a fountain, these tricks can have a lasting impact on your cat’s health.
Hydration plays a crucial role in keeping cats healthy, especially as they age. Choose the tips that work best for your lifestyle and your pet’s preferences, and keep an eye on their behavior to adjust as needed.
With consistent effort and a little creativity, your cat will be sipping their way to better health in no time.