How to get a cat to drink more water

If a cat drinks little or less than it should, it’s a sign that something is wrong. And that’s not silly, because staying well hydrated is crucial to their diet and health.

It may simply be that his water bowl is dirty, or there may be a more serious reason, such as illness. So the first thing to do is to find out why your cat is drinking so little water.

How much water should a cat drink per day?

Experts say that a cat’s daily water intake is between 50 and 100 millilitres per kilogram of a cat’s weight.

If you notice any changes in your cat’s water habits, such as him drinking less than usual, read on for some easy tips on how to get him to drink more.

But if your pet has not been drinking for two days and has other symptoms or unusual behaviour, you should address this as soon as possible and consult your vet.

8 easy tips to get your cat drink more water

1. Fresh water every day. Your cat will appreciate a clean bowl with fresh water. It is advisable to change the water every day, so that your cat likes it and does not reject it.
2. Several water points. Cats prefer to drink in different places. Place several water bowls in different places around the house, so that clean water is always nearby.
3. Try different drinking fountains. Plastic and metal bowls can contaminate the water, so try using a ceramic or glass drinking bowl. Try different drinkers to see which you like best.
4. Make it easy. Cats generally prefer wide, shallow bowls, as it allows them to keep an eye on their surroundings while drinking and prevents their whiskers from touching the sides of the bowl.
5. Mineral water is best. Cats can be very sensitive to the smell and taste of water. Tap water may have unpleasant tastes for your pet, causing him to reject it. Use bottled mineral water or filtered water instead.
6. Cool water. Cats can be very fussy about water temperature. Changing the water often helps to keep it cool and at the temperature they prefer. In summer, you can add ice cubes to the water to make it more appealing and keep it fresh and palatable for longer.
7. Keep everything clean. Wash all bowls daily to avoid bacteria build-up. Avoid putting the drinking bowl next to the sandbox, so that sand does not get into the water.
8. Flowing water. Another option your cat may like is a water fountain. Many cats are attracted to the movement and coolness of flowing water, so you may find your cat trying to drink directly from the tap. Try a fountain and observe your cat’s reaction.