Is Your Cat Drinking Enough Water?

As with all living creatures, water is one of the most important essential nutrients that your cat needs in order to thrive. Many cats are not good about consuming enough water on a regular basis. Our modern day cats evolved from desert-dwelling animals that had to try to survive on very little water and developed the ability to conserve water very well. That low thirst drive that served its ancestors well remains in our household cats today and it can be a challenge to make sure they are drinking enough water.

Drinking inadequate amounts of water can lead to a number of different health problems for your cat, including dehydration. Low water consumption can also cause or contribute to kidney disease and lower urinary tract disease in cats.

Fortunately there are some ways that we can help our cats to consume more water on a regular basis. Try placing several water bowls in different areas of your home and away from where your cat eats. Many cats do not like to drink in the same area where they eat and they like to have choices.

Feeding canned food as part or all of your cat’s diet is a great way to add water to their daily routine as it naturally has a much higher moisture content than dry food. As with any diet change, be sure to introduce new foods slowly, over a period of 7 – 10 days in order to avoid gastro-intestinal upsets. If your cat simply refuses to eat canned food, try adding water to his dry food. Start with a very small amount of water and increase slowly over a period of time until your cat becomes accustomed to the change. Cat fountains can be an effective way to increase your pet’s water intake. Most of us have seen our cats in the sink waiting to take a few sips when the faucet is turned on.  Many cats are tempted by the moving water and will drink more often when provided with a fountain.

Encouraging your cat to drink more water on a regular basis is one simple way to help keep them healthy!