Cats are notoriously picky when it comes to hydration. Unlike dogs, many cats don’t drink enough water on their own, especially if they’re fed primarily dry food. This lack of water intake can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and other health problems.
Helping your cat drink more water doesn’t have to involve complicated routines or expensive solutions. With a few natural, practical tips, you can promote better hydration and support your cat’s long-term health.
Why Hydration is Crucial for Cats
Cats have a low natural thirst drive, especially when compared to other animals. In the wild, they typically get moisture from the prey they eat. Domestic cats who eat kibble may get only 5–10% moisture from their diet—far below what their bodies need.
Benefits of proper hydration include:
- Healthy kidney function
- Prevention of urinary crystals and infections
- Better digestion and nutrient absorption
- Shinier coat and healthier skin
- Improved energy and overall mood
1. Add Wet Food to Their Diet
One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase your cat’s water intake is by feeding them wet or canned food.
Why it works:
- Canned food typically contains 70–80% moisture
- Many cats prefer the texture and smell
- It mimics the hydration levels found in a natural feline diet
Tip: If you don’t want to switch entirely, mix wet food with their dry kibble or offer it once a day as a treat.
2. Use a Cat Water Fountain
Cats are often more interested in moving water than still water. A cat water fountain mimics the flow of a stream or faucet and can be a game-changer.
Benefits of a fountain:
- Keeps water fresh and oxygenated
- The sound and motion attract curiosity
- Reduces stagnation and bacteria buildup
Bonus Tip: Choose a quiet fountain with a stainless steel or ceramic bowl for easy cleaning and fewer odors.
3. Place Multiple Water Bowls Around the House
Cats may not go out of their way to drink water. Make hydration convenient by placing several water bowls in different locations.
Ideal spots:
- Near their food (but not too close)
- In their favorite lounging or play areas
- Away from litter boxes (cats dislike water near waste)
Pro Tip: Try different bowl types—some cats prefer ceramic, while others like glass or stainless steel.
4. Keep Water Fresh and Clean Daily
Just like us, cats don’t want to drink stale or dirty water.
How to keep it appealing:
- Replace water at least once a day
- Wash bowls with mild soap and warm water regularly
- Remove food particles or fur floating in the water
- Refill with room temperature water, not cold from the fridge
If your cat doesn’t seem to drink from a bowl, they might be avoiding it because it smells or tastes strange.
5. Offer Ice Cubes as a Fun Hydration Trick
Some cats enjoy licking or playing with ice cubes, especially during hot weather. This is an easy way to sneak in some hydration.
Ideas:
- Add one or two ice cubes to their water bowl
- Make ice cubes from unsalted chicken broth or tuna water for flavor
- Let them bat ice cubes around on the floor under supervision
This small interaction often encourages curiosity and water intake.
6. Flavor the Water Naturally
If your cat is reluctant to drink plain water, try enhancing the flavor in a safe and natural way.
Add a splash of:
- Tuna water (from tuna packed in water, no salt)
- Unsalted bone broth or chicken broth
- Clam juice (in small amounts)
Avoid broths with onion, garlic, or added salt—these are toxic to cats. Always use natural, pet-safe ingredients.
7. Try Different Bowl Shapes and Sizes
Cats can be surprisingly sensitive to their water bowl shape. Some dislike bowls that are too narrow or deep because their whiskers touch the sides—this is called whisker fatigue.
What to try:
- Wide, shallow bowls
- Ceramic or glass bowls (they don’t hold odors like plastic)
- Bowls placed on an elevated platform
Experiment until you find the bowl your cat actually enjoys using.
8. Monitor Water Intake and Set Hydration Goals
Keep an eye on how much your cat is drinking. A healthy adult cat typically needs 50–60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight daily, including what’s consumed from food.
Simple tracking ideas:
- Use a measuring cup to track how much you add and how much is left
- Weigh your cat’s wet food portion to estimate water from food
- Monitor urine output—if it’s strong-smelling or dark, your cat may need more water
If you’re ever unsure, your vet can help you calculate your cat’s ideal hydration needs.
9. Make It a Game or Ritual
Cats are more likely to drink if the experience is fun, novel, or part of their routine.
Make it engaging:
- Give fresh water right before playtime
- Use treat-dispensing water toys
- Praise your cat or pet them gently when they drink
Positive associations go a long way in building healthy habits.
10. Avoid Common Hydration Mistakes
Here are a few things that may accidentally discourage your cat from drinking enough:
🚫 Don’t use dirty bowls — Regular cleaning is essential
🚫 Don’t place bowls near litter boxes — Cats find this off-putting
🚫 Don’t force water with syringes unless instructed by a vet
🚫 Don’t ignore signs of dehydration, like lethargy, dry gums, or poor appetite
Staying proactive and observant helps keep your cat safe and hydrated.
A Well-Hydrated Cat is a Happy Cat
Helping your cat drink more water doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding their preferences and making small, consistent changes, you can significantly improve their hydration naturally.
From wet food and fountains to fun flavor tricks and better bowl placement, there are plenty of creative and cat-approved methods to try. Not only will your feline feel better physically—but you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re supporting their health every day.
