How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

Why Cats Are Bad at Drinking Water

Domestic cats descended from the African wildcat, a desert species that obtained most of its moisture from prey. As a result, cats have a naturally low thirst drive. They do not feel thirsty until they are already mildly dehydrated.

This is fine when eating a diet of whole prey (which is 70-80% moisture). It is a problem when eating dry kibble (which is 6-10% moisture).

The Kidney Connection

Chronic low-level dehydration is a major contributor to feline kidney disease, the leading cause of death in cats over 10 years old. Kidneys need water to flush metabolic waste. When water intake is consistently low, the kidneys work harder and wear out faster.

For more on this topic, see our guide on Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats: The Data on Safety and Lifespan.

How to Increase Water Intake

1. Feed Wet Food (The Biggest Impact)

A cat eating exclusively wet food gets 3-4 times more daily moisture than a cat eating dry food. Switching from dry to wet food is the single most effective way to improve hydration.

For more on this topic, see our guide on 7 Cat Health Emergencies That Cannot Wait Until Morning.

2. Use a Cat Water Fountain

Cats instinctively prefer moving water over still water (moving water is less likely to be contaminated in the wild). A water fountain with a gentle flow encourages more frequent drinking.

3. Multiple Water Stations

Place water bowls in multiple locations throughout the house, away from food bowls and litter boxes. Cats are more likely to drink if water is conveniently available.

4. Wide, Shallow Bowls

Cats dislike having their whiskers touch the sides of the bowl (whisker fatigue). Use wide, shallow bowls or saucers.

5. Add Water to Food

Mix a tablespoon or two of warm water into wet food to create a gravy. Most cats accept this easily.

6. Flavor the Water

A tiny amount of tuna juice or low-sodium chicken broth in the water can entice reluctant drinkers. Change the water daily to prevent bacterial growth.