Cats might be adorable, purring enigmas, but let’s face it—they’re not exactly known for their love of water. If your feline friend treats their water bowl like it’s filled with kryptonite, you’re not alone.
Hydration is super important for cats, especially since they’re not always great at realizing they’re thirsty. Dehydration can lead to health issues like kidney problems or urinary tract troubles, and nobody wants that.
The good news? You don’t need a degree in cat psychology to trick your whiskered buddy into sipping more H2O. With a few clever tweaks to their daily routine, you can make hydration both easy and enticing.
From sneaky bowl placement hacks to the magic of running water, these eight tips will have your cat happily lapping up water in no time—and maybe even turning into a hydration pro.
1. Use a Cat Water Fountain
Cats are naturally drawn to moving water—something about it just screams “fresh” to their instincts. Enter the cat water fountain, a magical device that not only keeps the water flowing but also piques your cat’s curiosity.
The gentle sound of trickling water can be irresistible to some cats, turning hydration into a fun activity rather than a chore. Plus, fountains often come with built-in filters, ensuring the water stays clean and odor-free.
If your cat seems skeptical at first, give them some time to warm up to it—they might just surprise you by becoming a fountain enthusiast.
2. Add Water to Their Food
If your cat’s a little too good at ignoring their water bowl, why not sneak the hydration into their meals? Wet food already has a higher water content, but you can take it a step further by adding a splash of water to it.
For cats who prefer kibble, let the dry food soak in water or broth for a few minutes—it creates a soft, hydrating snack they’ll love. Just be sure to use water that’s room temperature and avoid salty or seasoned broths unless they’re specifically cat-friendly.
3. Provide Multiple Water Sources
One water bowl in the corner of the kitchen isn’t going to cut it for the average cat. Cats are finicky creatures who like options, so try placing several water sources around your home.
The more accessible the water, the more likely they are to stop and take a sip. Position bowls in places your cat already frequents, like near their favorite lounging spots.
And if you’ve got multiple cats, it’s even more important to spread the hydration love—no one likes waiting in line for a drink!
4. Use Ice Cubes for Play
Who knew hydration could double as entertainment? Tossing a couple of ice cubes into your cat’s water bowl can make drinking more exciting.
The movement of the cubes as they bob around the bowl can intrigue your cat, encouraging them to take a closer look—and maybe even a sip. For an extra treat, try freezing a bit of tuna water or low-sodium chicken broth into the cubes.
Your cat will love the added flavor and fun, and you’ll love seeing them hydrated and happy.
5. Flavor the Water
Plain water might not always do the trick for picky felines, but adding a hint of flavor can make all the difference.
A splash of tuna water or low-sodium chicken broth (be sure it’s free of onions or garlic!) can transform an ordinary bowl of water into a gourmet beverage. Start with small amounts to ensure your cat likes the taste, and watch as they lap it up like it’s a Michelin-starred creation.
Just remember to switch back to plain water after a while to avoid dependency on flavored drinks.
6. Experiment with Bowl Types
Cats are connoisseurs of, well, everything—including their drinking vessels. If your cat’s ignoring their water, it might be the bowl’s fault.
Some cats dislike plastic bowls because they can retain odors, while others might not like the way their whiskers touch the sides of the bowl.
Try switching to stainless steel, ceramic, or even a shallow dish to see what your cat prefers. You’ll be amazed how a simple bowl upgrade can turn your cat into a hydration champion.
7. Keep the Water Fresh
Would you want to drink from a dusty, stagnant bowl? Neither does your cat. Keeping their water fresh is one of the easiest ways to encourage drinking.
Change the water daily (or more often if it’s hot), and make sure the bowl is washed regularly to avoid any buildup of bacteria or slime.
For extra freshness, fill the bowl with filtered water—it’s often more appealing than tap water, which can have a strange taste or smell that turns picky cats off.
8. Monitor Your Cat’s Drinking Habits
Every cat is unique, so it’s important to keep an eye on their drinking habits to ensure they’re staying hydrated. Note how often they visit their water bowl or how much water seems to disappear throughout the day.
If you’re not sure how much they’re drinking, try measuring the amount of water you put out each morning. If your cat isn’t drinking enough or suddenly changes their habits, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue, so don’t hesitate to consult your vet.
Staying in tune with your cat’s hydration needs ensures a happy, healthy furball for years to come.