Written by: Rachel Holly
Vet-reviewed by: James Reynolds, DVM, Williamson Co. Animal Hospital
The Importance of Hydration for Cats
We know proper hydration is critical for maintaining our overall health and well-being. The same is true for our pets. But compared to dogs, cats tend to head to the water bowl less frequently. This can make it a challenge to ensure your cat stays adequately hydrated. While we usually emphasize the importance of drinking water during the hot summer months, cats need to stay well hydrated at all times to maintain good health. It plays a role in temperature regulation, organ function, and digestion as well as many other bodily functions. Understanding how much water a cat needs and how to encourage proper hydration can prevent health issues and promote a happy, active life for your feline friend.
Why Don’t Cats Drink As Much Water As Dogs?
If you have a dog and a cat you are probably aware of the difference in water intake between the two species. Mostly it is the result of evolutionary biology. But other things factor in as well. Dogs are more likely to run and play outdoors and go for long walks after which they usually head straight for the water bowl. Cats prefer less thirst-inducing activities like watching birds from the window or lying in a sunbeam on the floor. Also, more cats are fed a wet food than dogs which plays a role in the water they consume.
How Much Water Does a Cat Need?
According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, cats need to drink about 4 ounces of water per five pounds of body weight per day, so the average 10-pound adult cat should drink about one cup of water daily. This amount can vary based on factors such as the cat’s diet, age, health status, and activity level. Cats who consume a predominantly dry food need to drink more compared to those who eat wet food. Wet cat food can contain up to 80% water which contributes to their daily water intake. Cats are very good at self-regulating so if you suddenly change your cat’s food from wet to dry, you’ll likely see them drinking more from the water dish. Change it back to wet and they will self-adjust again. This is also a reason why simply looking at water in their bowl doesn’t give you an accurate idea of the water they’ve consumed.
Signs of Dehydration in Cats
Dehydration in cats can lead to serious health problems and can send your cat to the hospital if it becomes severe. Dehydration can lead to multi-organ dysfunction, irregular body temperature, cardiac arrhythmia, and urinary tract issues. Knowing the signs can prevent a minor problem from escalating to a serious one:
Dull Coat – A lackluster or dry coat can indicate insufficient hydration.
Loss of Skin Elasticity – Gently pinching the skin between the cat’s shoulder blades and releasing it can reveal whether the skin returns to its normal position quickly. If it stays tented, it may be a sign of dehydration. However, senior cats lose elasticity as they age so be mindful of this if your cat is older.
Lethargy/Weakness – This can be a sign of dehydration though it is also a symptom of a myriad of other conditions.
Dry Gums – Dry gums and mucus membranes are another indicator that your cat is not getting sufficient water.
Decreased Urination – What goes in comes out as waste so less frequent urination or concentrated urine can suggest dehydration.
Sunken Eyes – In severe cases, a cat may have a sunken eye look.
It’s important to remember that dehydration can often be caused by illness or a chronic condition such as diabetes or kidney disease. If you cat is sick and having diarrhea or vomiting they are susceptible to dehydration as well as those using certain medications like diuretics prescribed to treat heart disease. In some cases, normal water intake is never enough and subcutaneous hydration may be needed to re-establish your cat’s water and electrolyte balance.
How To Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water
Here are some strategies to keep your feline friend hydrated:
Provide Fresh Water– Ensure your cat always has access to fresh, clean water – no food bits or hair floating in it – cats can be very finicky Change the water once daily at minimum. Place several bowls in areas that the cat frequents most.
Well-Placed Water Bowls – Place water bowls in clean quiet areas where other pets won’t bother him when drinking.
Use a Cat Water Fountain– Many cats are attracted to running water. A cat water fountain can entice them to drink more frequently.
Add Wet Food To Their Diet – Feeding your cat wet food can increase their water intake. Even combining wet and dry food is better than an entirely dry food diet for a cat that doesn’t drink much.
Add Water to Wet Food – You can further increase your cat’s water consumption by adding a little bit of water to wet food.
Try a Different Temperature – some cats like cool water; other prefer room temperature. It might be as simple as changing the water’s temperature to get your cat to drink more.
Hydration is a fundamental aspect of feline health, and ensuring your cat drinks enough water can be challenging. By understanding their daily water needs and encouraging hydration, you can help prevent dehydration and its negative effects. If you still feel your cat’s water consumption is a concern or have any questions, consult with your vet to eliminate any possible underlying conditions and address any issues.
