Is Your Cat Drinking Enough Water? 5 Signs to Watch For
Many cat parents are surprised to learn that cats often don't drink much water on their own. Cats evolved from desert animals that got most of their water from their prey, so their natural thirst drive is low. That's fine in the wild, but an indoor cat eating mostly dry food may not be getting enough.
5 signs your cat may need more water
- Low energy: your cat seems more tired or less playful than usual.
- Dry or sticky gums: healthy gums should feel moist.
- Skin that stays "tented": gently lift the skin between the shoulder blades. It should spring back quickly.
- Small or infrequent pee clumps in the litter box.
- Sunken-looking eyes or a loss of appetite.
Important: these signs can also point to health problems. If you notice them, or if your cat suddenly drinks much more or much less than usual, check with your vet.
Easy ways to help your cat drink more
- Add wet food to their diet. It's one of the simplest ways to increase water intake.
- Keep water away from food and the litter box. Many cats prefer their water in a separate, quiet spot.
- Use a wide, shallow bowl. Some cats dislike their whiskers touching the sides.
- Offer water in more than one place around your home.
- Try moving water. Many cats are drawn to running water, which is why some only drink from the tap. A cat fountain keeps water moving all day.
- Change the water daily and wash the bowl or fountain weekly.
Why we sell a cordless fountain
Our FreshFlow Cordless Fountain runs on a rechargeable battery, so you can put it anywhere your cat likes to hang out, with no cord to chew. Its motion sensor turns the flow on when your cat walks up, which saves battery and gets their attention.
Every cat is different, so give them a few days to get curious. And if you have any concerns about your cat's health, your vet is always the best person to ask.