Cats are famously bad at drinking water. They descend from desert animals and have a naturally low thirst drive, so many cats simply do not drink as much as they should. A little effort on your part can make a real difference. Here are the changes that actually get cats to drink more.
Add more water stations
One bowl in one room is easy to walk past. Put several water bowls around the home, in the spots where your cat actually spends time. The easier water is to reach, the more often they will stop for a sip.
Move water away from food and litter
In the wild, cats instinctively keep their water away from their food and their toileting area. A bowl placed right next to the food dish or the litter box can quietly put them off. Give water its own spot.
Try a wide, shallow bowl
Many cats dislike it when their whiskers brush the sides of a deep, narrow bowl — sometimes called whisker fatigue. A wide, shallow bowl filled near the top lets them drink without their whiskers touching the edges.
Use a water fountain
Cats are drawn to moving water — it is why so many drink from a running tap. A pet fountain keeps water circulating, filtered and fresh, and for a lot of cats it is the single biggest thing that gets them drinking more. See our guide to the best cat water fountains for quiet, easy-clean picks.
Add water to their food
Feeding some wet food, or stirring a little extra water into it, is an easy way to boost your cat’s total water intake without them having to drink more. It all counts.
Keep it clean and fresh
Change the water daily and wash bowls often. Cats are sensitive to stale water and to the slimy film that builds up in a bowl left too long. Fresh water in a clean bowl is far more inviting.
FAQ
How much water should a cat drink?
Roughly 3.5 to 4.5 ounces per 5 pounds of body weight a day, including the moisture in their food. Cats on wet food drink less from the bowl because they get water from their meals.
Do cats prefer running water?
Many do. Moving water often smells and tastes fresher to them, which is why a fountain or a dripping tap tends to attract more interest than a still bowl.
When should I worry about my cat’s drinking?
A sudden, lasting change — drinking much more or much less than usual — is worth a vet visit, since it can signal a health issue. This guide is about encouraging healthy cats to drink; it is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
