Getting a Picky Cat to Drink More Water
Sure, I think we can agree that, if a cat shows no interest in their water bowl, it isn't any of your imagination. It's true, especially in a situation where you see them not drinking the water you've provided, that some cats are picky drinkers, and that can sometimes be a little worrying.
The positive news is that, while most cat owners will tell you it isn’t very difficult, there are a number of things you can do that are surprisingly effective in getting your cat to begin drinking more. Here's a few of the things that, combined with professional animal behaviorists, cat owners have discovered that works.
Why Cats Don't Drink Much
Since cats evolved in desert environments, they are adapted to getting much of their moisture from their food. Wild cats target prey that have a high moisture content, and consequently, they do not need to seek water as frequently as other animals.
Because of their evolutionary history, domestic cats have a similar instinct. They often do not feel a strong urge to drink, especially when dry food is fed. This is more of a concern for older cats and cats that are prone to developing kidney or urinary problems.
Step by Step Water Encouraging Methods
To get started, set out a few water bowls around the house. Cats prefer to drink away from where they eat, so try a few bowls in rooms where your cat likes to hang out.
Next, try different bowl materials and sizes as many cats dislike narrow bowls and can be picky with materials. Try wide and shallow cat bowls in ceramic and glass to see if your cat likes one of those better.
Put some thought into the water. Some cats prefer filtered water, some prefer tap, some enjoy cool water, some enjoy room temperature water, and some enjoy a tiny bit of low sodium chicken broth mixed in. Add to this, if your cat has health problems, check with the vet first.
Most cats are attracted to movement so a cat water fountain can be a good option if your cat is picky about where to drink. If that's the case, a water fountain can help as a lot of cats prefer drinking from faucets.
The Wet Food Advantage
One great way to boost your cat's hydration is to include wet food in their meals. In wet food, about 70 80 percent is water. So just by eating, your cat gets a substantial amount of extra moisture.
If your cat loves dry food, you don't have to make a complete switch. Just one can of wet food a day can make a big impact. Some owners also like to add warm water to their cat's wet food to increase moisture even more!
What Juniper Taught Me About Location
When I first got my cat, Juniper, she wouldn't touch her water bowl for months, and only started using it when I moved it away from her food. I guess she prefers her food and water separated. It turns out this is actually pretty common.
You can try moving bowls to different quiet places where your cat feels comfortable and safe, and away from high traffic areas and the litter box. If your cat is the type that likes to wander and you have multiple floors, try placing the water on a different floor from the other bowls. Wild cats tend to roam to find water and placing it a floor up might mimic that behavior.
When to Call Your Vet
If your cat has stopped or started drinking more than usual, it's worth a call to your vet. Drinking changes can indicate serious health problems like diabetes, kidney disease, or hyperthyroidism.
You should always call in if your cat shows any sign of dehydration. If your cat seems lethargic, has sunken eyes, or the skin on their body doesn't immediately bounce back when you gently pull on it, call your vet. Cats need immediate aid for chronic dehydration, it's very serious.
It can take some time for you to figure out what will motivate your cat to drink more, and is worth it. Your cat may drink more after you make some changes, like, changing where the water bowl is, switching to wet food, or getting a water fountain. Each cat is different, so pay attention to the changes that your cat likes. If you are concerned about your cat's hydration, call your vet.