If you feel like your cat hardly drinks, you're not the only one. It's very common, and there's an explanation for it. The good news is that with a few simple changes at home, most cats start drinking more.
Why cats drink little
The domestic cat is descended from desert cats, which obtained almost all their water from the prey they hunted. That is why they feel little thirst and many drink less than they should, especially if they eat only dry kibble.
Drinking little for years can affect their kidneys and urinary tract. If you notice changes in how much they drink or how they urinate, consult your veterinarian: these tips help, but they do not replace a check-up.
Trick 1: a place for everything
- Water, away from food. In the wild, water next to prey would be contaminated, and that instinct remains.
- And away from the litter box. No one wants to drink next to the bathroom.
Trick 2: the bowl matters
- Wide and shallow, so their whiskers, which are very sensitive, don't rub against it.
- Ceramic, glass, or steel is better than plastic, which can hold odors.
- Several water stations spread around the house in the areas where they spend their day.
- Moving water. Many cats are much more attracted to running water. That is why they drink from the tap, and why a fountain often works so well.
Trick 3: water in their food too
- Wet food is about 80% water. Combining it with dry food is one of the most effective ways to keep them hydrated.
- Fresh water every day and a clean bowl. Nobody wants water that has been sitting in a bowl for days.
How to know if it's working
Check the litter box: if you see larger or more frequent clumps of pee, they are drinking more. You will usually notice it in a few days.
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