Is your cat drinking enough? Here is how to increase their water intake

Although cats can survive on less water than dogs, they are still prone to dehydration. It can lead to constipation, lower urinary tract disease, urinary blockages, and other health complications.

Lactose-free or cat milk, the only type of milk they are allowed to drink, counts as food, not drink, and is no substitute for water.

If you’re worried that your kitty is not getting enough H2O, there are a few tips to encourage them to drink more.

Keep water fresh and bowl clean

Just like you, your cat prefers fresh cool water. They can be turning their nose away because the bowl is grimy and stale.

Clean the dish daily and make sure your fluffy always has freshly poured water.

Place bowls throughout the house

Cats prefer drinking in different locations. Give them plenty of options to choose from so that a bowl of water is never too far away.

Get a water fountain

Many cats are attracted by the movement and freshness of flowing water, which is why you may have witnessed them try to drink directly from the tap.

There are many affordable pet water fountains available on Amazon or from your nearest pet store.

Separate the food bowl and the water dish

Cats don’t like to drink near where they eat. This is carried over from their African wildcat ancestors, as the gut contents of their prey could contaminate the water source.

Place their food and water bowls in separate locations.

Add some flavour

Outsmart your cat by adding a few drops of water from a tin of tuna or some chicken broth. This life hack will make water smell and taste more enticing for your furry enigma.

Make sure the flavouring doesn’t include too much salt, as it is counterproductive for keeping your kitty hydrated.

Experiment with the water dish

If your cat doesn’t drink enough, it may prefer a certain type of bowl. Plastic and metal can taint the water, so try using ceramic or glass dishes instead.

Cats like wide, shallow bowls as it allows them to keep an eye on their surroundings while they’re drinking and keep their whiskers from touching the sides of the bowl.

Sources used:

- Cats Protection: '8 tips to get your cat to drink more water'

- Daily Paws: '4 Simple Ways to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water'