Does your favorite feline consume enough water in any given day? In this post we will discuss how much water your cat needs and a few tips on how to encourage him to drink more. This post is all about cat hydration tips and how much your water your cat needs daily.
According to Cornell University, your cat needs to drink approximately once cup of water per day. It will be less for kittens and small cats because this amount is based on their weight.
“Cats need to consume about 4 ounces of water per five pounds of lean body weight per day, so the average 10-pound cat should drink about one cup of water per day. It’s important to realize that cats that eat wet food, which can contain up to 80% water, may drink less, and cats that eat dry food usually take more of their daily water requirement in by drinking.” –Cornell University
Keep Your Feline Healthy and Hydrated: Reasons Why Cats Need to Stay Hydrated
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- Hydration is essential for regulating body temperature, maintaining electrolyte balance, digesting food, lubricating joints, and delivering oxygen and nutrients to organs.
- Cats who are properly hydrated have higher energy levels and are less likely to suffer from urinary tract problems and kidney disease.
- Access to fresh, clean water at all times is important, and a water fountain can encourage cats to drink more water.
- Moist food can increase cats’ water intake, and some cats enjoy drinking water straight from the faucet.
Cats need to stay hydrated for several reasons. Firstly, hydration is crucial for regulating body temperature, maintaining electrolyte balance, digesting food, lubricating joints, and delivering oxygen and nutrients to organs. In order to ensure that your cat stays properly hydrated, you can provide them with access to fresh, clean water at all times. Additionally, you may consider investing in a water fountain, which can encourage your cat to drink more water. Feeding your cat moist food can also help increase their water intake. Finally, some cats enjoy drinking water straight from the faucet, so you may want to try offering this as an option as well.
Access to Fresh Water
Cats love having a fresh bowl of water available at all times. For my cat Finnegan, I keep a few bowl out and change them daily. He loves water that comes from the faucet, and even more so he loves to drink my water! Sometimes I trick him and pretend it is my water, knowing he will HAVE to have some.
To ensure your cat stays hydrated, it’s recommended to use a wide bowl or plate that provides enough space for their whiskers to clear on both sides of their face. This can prevent whisker fatigue and encourage water consumption. Another option is a circulating pet fountain with a wide bowl. Observing your cat’s behavior while eating can help identify any discomfort caused by whisker fatigue.
Adding a few extra ice cubes can also keep it cool during summer months. Some cats also like to have the ice cubes to bat around.
Cat Water Fountain
Providing your cat with a water fountain can be beneficial as cats tend to avoid stagnant water. Fresh, running water is safer and cleaner, and cats feel more comfortable drinking from it. Additionally, a water fountain can save time as it requires less maintenance and eliminates the need to frequently change the water bowl.
This PetSafe water fountain has a capacity of 70 oz., making it suitable for cats and small to medium sized dogs. Pets are encouraged to drink more due to the moving water, and the constant circulation promotes good pet hygiene. In addition, the fountain includes a replaceable carbon water filter that ensures fresh water. The submersible pump and circulating water provide quiet operation, which is great for anxious pets. The ceramic design is hygienic and aesthetically pleasing. The fountain is also easy to clean and is top-shelf dishwasher safe. U.S.-based customer care is available by phone, email or chat to assist with any questions. The PetSafe brand has been a trusted global leader in pet behavior, containment and lifestyle innovations for nearly 30 years, helping pets and their owners to live happily together.
Moist Cat Food
I give Finnegan a can of moist cat food (he likes the stuff with extra gravy) and sometimes I add a little water to the can to get extra juice, and pour it on top. He loves the ‘gravy’ and sometimes just eats that, leaving most of the actual solid.
When it comes to feeding cats, there are various options available, with kibble and wet food being the most common. While kibble may be convenient and affordable, it’s crucial to note that wet food has its advantages as well.
According to experts, wet food can help cats stay hydrated, which is essential for their overall health. Additionally, wet food may be closer to the natural diet that cats would have in the wild. While kibble may be beneficial for feline teeth, it’s essential to incorporate wet food into a cat’s diet to ensure they’re getting all the necessary nutrients and staying hydrated. Ultimately, a balanced diet that includes both kibble and wet food can help keep cats healthy and happy.
Faucet Trickling
While we do not recommend leaving a trickling faucet on for your cat throughout the day, having it on while you are cooking, or in the bathroom while you get ready can be a great way for your cat to get some extra water.
Flavored Water
Next time you use a can of fish or cat food, add a little water and swoosh it around to make a food topper for your feline. Instant cat gravy! And of course more importantly, instant hydration.
Concluding Purrs
To sum up, it’s crucial to ensure that your cat is consuming enough water to maintain their health and well-being. Depending on their diet, they may need to drink more or less water, so it’s essential to monitor their intake and provide fresh water regularly. By keeping your cat hydrated, you can help prevent health issues and ensure they live a happy, healthy life.
