How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water: A Comprehensive Guide

Cats are notorious for their finicky drinking habits, and dehydration can lead to serious health problems. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), cats should drink around 40-60 milliliters of water per kilogram of body weight each day. However, many cats fall well short of this recommended amount.

Why is it Important for Cats to Drink Water?

Water comprises about 60% of a cat's body and is essential for many vital bodily functions, including:

• Regulating body temperature: Water helps cats cool down by sweating through their paws.
• Transporting nutrients and oxygen: Water carries nutrients and oxygen to cells throughout the body.
• Removing waste products: Water helps flush out waste products from the body through urine and feces.
• Lubricating joints: Water helps lubricate joints, reducing friction and pain.

Benefits of Getting Your Cat to Drink More Water

• Reduced risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs): UTIs are a common problem in cats, and dehydration can increase the risk of developing one.
• Improved kidney function: Water helps the kidneys filter out waste products from the blood.
• Healthier skin and coat: Water helps keep the skin and coat hydrated and healthy.
• Reduced risk of obesity: Cats that drink more water tend to eat less, which can help them maintain a healthy weight.

Tips and Tricks to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

1. Offer Fresh Water Regularly: Place several bowls of fresh water around your home, especially in areas where your cat likes to spend time.
2. Use a Water Fountain: Cats are attracted to the sound and movement of running water. A water fountain can encourage your cat to drink more.
3. Add Water to Food: If your cat is reluctant to drink water, try adding a little bit of water to their food.
4. Flavor the Water: Some cats may be tempted to drink water if it's flavored with tuna juice, chicken broth, or other pet-friendly flavors.
5. Try Different Bowls: Experiment with different types of bowls, such as ceramic, stainless steel, or glass. Some cats prefer bowls that are shallow and wide, while others prefer bowls that are deep and narrow.
6. Avoid Plastic Bowls: Plastic bowls can harbor bacteria and chemicals that can deter cats from drinking water.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forcing Your Cat to Drink Water: Never force your cat to drink water. This can create negative associations with water and make it even harder to get them to drink.
• Not Providing Enough Water: Make sure to offer your cat several bowls of fresh water at all times.
• Using Dirty Bowls: Keep your cat's water bowls clean. Dirty bowls can harbor bacteria and deter your cat from drinking.
• Ignoring Signs of Dehydration: If your cat is not drinking enough water, they may show signs of dehydration, such as lethargy, dry gums, and sunken eyes. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs.

Tables

Table 1: Signs of Dehydration in Cats

Table 2: Recommended Daily Water Intake for Cats

Table 3: Foods that are High in Water Content

FAQs

1. How much water should a cat drink per day?
Cats should drink around 40-60 milliliters of water per kilogram of body weight each day.

2. Why should I get my cat to drink more water?
Getting your cat to drink more water can help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, improve kidney function, and promote overall health.

3. What are some tips to get my cat to drink more water?
Offer fresh water regularly, use a water fountain, add water to food, flavor the water, and try different bowls.

4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when trying to get my cat to drink water?
Forcing your cat to drink water, not providing enough water, using dirty bowls, and ignoring signs of dehydration are common mistakes to avoid.

5. What are the signs of dehydration in cats?
Lethargy, dry gums, sunken eyes, decreased urine output, and loss of skin elasticity are all signs of dehydration.

6. What foods are high in water content?
Cooked chicken, cooked fish, watermelon, blueberries, and zucchini are all foods that are high in water content.

7. What is a water fountain and how can it help my cat drink more water?
A water fountain is a device that circulates water and creates a gentle stream or waterfall. Cats are attracted to the sound and movement of running water, which can encourage them to drink more.

8. How often should I change my cat's water bowl?
Change your cat's water bowl daily to ensure that the water is fresh and clean.