Hydration Habits: How Often Should Cats Drink Water?

Cats are fussy when it comes to drinking water. They may prefer drinking from puddles or taps, or they may not seem to drink much at all. Cats also drink different amounts depending on their diet. For example, a cat on a dry food diet will drink more water than a cat on a wet food diet.

Cats require less water than dogs, but it's still important to monitor their water intake. Dehydration can be fatal, and drinking too much water can indicate an underlying illness.

How much water a cat needs per day

Cats need to drink a certain amount of water per day to stay healthy and avoid dehydration. The amount of water a cat needs depends on various factors, including body weight, diet, and underlying health conditions.

According to veterinarians, a healthy cat should drink about 4 ounces (about 1/2 cup) of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day. For example, a 10-pound cat should consume around 7-9 ounces (about 1 cup) of water per day. However, this amount can vary depending on the cat's diet and health status. Cats on a dry food diet may need more water compared to those on a wet food diet, as wet food has a higher water content.

To ensure your cat is getting enough water, it is recommended to provide constant access to fresh, clean water. Place multiple water bowls in different locations around the house, preferably in quiet and safe areas, to encourage your cat to drink. It is also important to keep the water bowls clean and filled with fresh water, as cats value cleanliness.

Additionally, you can try adding a small amount of water to your cat's dry food or switching to a wet food diet to increase their water intake. Wet food typically has a moisture content of 75-78%, while dry food has only about 10-12%. By providing a mix of dry and wet food or adding water to dry food, you can help ensure your cat stays properly hydrated.

Monitoring your cat's water intake is important, as both insufficient and excessive water consumption can indicate potential health issues. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems, including organ dysfunction, inability to regulate body temperature, cardiac arrhythmias, and kidney issues. On the other hand, drinking too much water could be a sign of underlying illnesses such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism.

If you notice any changes in your cat's water consumption or behaviour, it is important to consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical problems.

How to monitor a cat's water intake

Cats are fussy about drinking water, and they don't drink a lot at once. They drink small amounts throughout the day, and it can be hard to keep track of how much they are drinking. It is important to monitor your cat's water intake to ensure they are staying hydrated, as this is essential for their overall health. Here are some ways to monitor your cat's water intake:

Use a measuring jug

Each day, fill your cat's water bowl with a measured amount of water using a measuring jug. At the end of the day, pour any leftover water back into the measuring jug to see how much has been drunk. This method allows you to keep track of your cat's daily water intake.

Use a water bowl that monitors water intake

There are now water bowls available that monitor your cat's water intake, such as the Sure Petcare's Felaqua® Connect. These bowls also automatically refill with fresh water as your cat drinks.

Monitor the water level in the bowl

Fill your cat's water bowl to the brim and leave it for 24 hours. After that time, check how much water has been drunk. Do this for a few days to establish what is normal for your cat.

Weigh your cat

You can calculate your cat's daily water requirement based on their body weight. A healthy cat needs approximately 50-60ml of water per kg of body weight per day. For example, a 4.5kg cat should consume an estimated 225-270ml of water daily.

Monitor trends

Rather than trying to catch your cat in the act of drinking, focus on monitoring the trends of the water level in their bowl. Measure the water level in ounces or cups when you clean and refill their bowl each day. Keep a log to monitor drinking trends. This way, you can seek medical attention if things change.

Watch out for signs of dehydration

It can be hard to tell if your cat is dehydrated just by looking at their water intake. However, there are some signs you can look out for, including dry, tacky gums, loss of skin elasticity, sunken eyes, and constipation. If you suspect your cat is dehydrated, contact your veterinarian.

Watch out for signs of over-hydration

If your cat is drinking a lot of water, such as making frequent trips to the water bowl, this could indicate an underlying health condition. Again, contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.

Why cats need to drink water

Cats need to drink water to prevent dehydration, which can be fatal. Dehydration occurs when a cat's body loses more fluids than it takes in, creating an imbalance of water and electrolytes. Water is essential for the body to survive and perform vital functions.

Water helps to regulate body temperature, lubricate joints and tissues, and remove waste through the kidneys and stools. It also aids in circulation, nutrient absorption, and brain function. In addition, water helps to flush toxins from the kidneys, decrease the chances of kidney and bladder stones, and keep essential organs hydrated and healthy.

The amount of water a cat needs depends on its body weight and diet. On average, a cat should drink 60ml/kg of water per day. For example, a 4kg cat should drink about 240ml of water per day (about one cup) to ensure proper body function. However, if the cat eats wet food, it may not need to drink as much additional water because wet food contains about 80% water, whereas dry food only contains about 10%.

It is important to always ensure that cats have access to fresh, clean water and that their water bowls are kept separate from their food bowls and litter trays.

How to increase a cat's water intake

Cats are historically desert animals and do not have a strong thirst drive, so they may not always drink enough water to stay properly hydrated. This can lead to health issues such as constipation, lower urinary tract disease, and kidney problems. Here are some tips to help increase your cat's water intake:

Provide Constant Access to Fresh, Clean Water

The best way to ensure your cat stays hydrated is to provide them with constant access to fresh, clean water. Place multiple water bowls in various locations around the house so that water is always within easy reach. Cats prefer to keep their water at a distance from their food bowl and litter tray to avoid cross-contamination. They also tend to prefer wide, shallow bowls that allow them to keep an eye on their surroundings while drinking and prevent their whiskers from touching the sides of the bowl.

Switch to Wet Food

Wet food contains about 70-80% water, so it will help your cat meet their daily water needs. If your cat is currently on a dry food diet, talk to your veterinarian about gradually transitioning them to wet food to avoid upsetting their stomach. You can also try adding a small amount of extra water to their food, but be careful not to force it if they refuse to eat it.

Try Different Water Sources

Some cats prefer running water, so you may want to try a pet water fountain. Just be sure to keep it clean and change the filter regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. You can also try adding a ping pong ball or fishing bobber to the water surface to help your cat see the water level.

Experiment with Different Bowls

Try using bowls made of different materials, such as glass, ceramic, or stainless steel, as these options are less likely to taint the taste of the water. Some cats may also prefer shallow dishes, like a glass pie plate.

Add Flavor to the Water

You can try adding a few drops of tuna juice (from water-packed tuna), chicken broth, or clam juice to the water bowl to make it more enticing for your cat. Just be sure that the flavoring does not contain too much salt, as this is unhealthy for cats.

How to tell if a cat is dehydrated

Cats typically drink from their water bowl 2-4 times a day, but this can vary depending on their diet. Cats on a wet food diet get most of their water intake from their food and may not be seen drinking very often. Cats on a dry food diet will need to drink more water to compensate.

Cats require water for their overall health and well-being. Water is essential for regulating body temperature, lubricating joints and tissues, removing waste, delivering nutrients and oxygen, and aiding brain function. Dehydration can adversely affect a cat's digestion, circulation, and overall well-being, and can even become fatal if left untreated.

• Loss of skin elasticity: Gently pinch the skin between your cat's shoulder blades or on top of their head, pull it upward, then let go. The skin should bounce back into place within a second. If the skin remains tented for longer, your cat is likely dehydrated.
• Dry or sticky gums: Your cat's gums should be moist. Try to press your index finger gently into your cat's gums and watch them turn from white back to a normal pink colour. This should happen in less than 2 seconds. If the gums are cherry red, your finger sticks to the gums, or the refill time is longer than 2 seconds, your cat may be significantly dehydrated.
• Sunken eyes: Your cat's eyes may appear sunken into their head with moderate to severe dehydration.
• Constipation: When the body is dehydrated, the colon dries out the stool, leading to constipation. If your cat is straining to defecate and is only passing small, hard fecal balls, they may be constipated and dehydrated.
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea: Both processes rid the body of a large amount of water, making it difficult for your cat to maintain normal hydration. One episode is likely not concerning, but if it's paired with other symptoms or becomes persistent, dehydration will occur.
• Lack of energy and appetite: Cats typically stop eating when they are dehydrated, refusing both wet and dry food, as well as treats. This lack of food will significantly reduce their energy levels, causing them to lie around more than usual. Cats with severe dehydration may struggle to stand up.

If you suspect your cat is dehydrated, contact your veterinarian for advice. You can also try adding a small amount of tuna juice or chicken broth to their water bowl, or switch to wet food to increase their water intake.

Frequently asked questions