Cats are known for their finicky behavior when it comes to drinking water. Have you ever noticed your cat preferring to drink from a dripping faucet instead of their water bowl? It turns out that cats may actually prefer to drink moving water over still water.
According to a study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, cats have a natural instinct to seek out running water. This is because in the wild, running water is less likely to be contaminated with bacteria and other harmful substances. Additionally, cats may be attracted to the sound and movement of running water.
So why does this matter for your pet cat at home? Providing your cat with a source of moving water, such as a pet fountain, may encourage them to drink more water and stay hydrated. This is especially important for cats, as they are prone to urinary tract problems if they don’t drink enough water.
Table of Contents
Why Do Cats Prefer Moving Water?
Instinct
Cats have a natural instinct to drink moving water, which may be due to their wild ancestors’ behavior. African wildcats, the closest ancestor of domestic cats, would drink from streams and rivers. Moving water was safer to drink because it was less likely to be contaminated with harmful organisms. Domestic cats may still have this instinct, which is why they may prefer to drink from a running faucet or a cat water fountain.
Health Benefits
Drinking enough water is essential for a cat’s health. Cats need fresh, clean water to stay hydrated, and it helps with digestion and maintaining healthy skin elasticity. Drinking enough water can also help prevent chronic kidney disease, urinary diseases, and dehydration. Moving water is oxygenated, which can help with fatigue and weight management. Drinking more water can also help with fluid intake, which can help prevent diarrhea and vomiting.
Cats may also prefer moving water because it is less likely to cause whisker fatigue. Whisker fatigue is when a cat’s whiskers become overstimulated, which can be uncomfortable for the cat. Drinking from a small bowl may cause whisker fatigue, which is why cats may prefer to drink from a larger, shallow bowl or a cat water fountain.
In conclusion, cats have a natural instinct to drink moving water, which may be due to their wild ancestors’ behavior. Drinking enough water is essential for a cat’s health, and moving water has additional health benefits. Providing fresh, clean, and oxygenated water can help prevent diseases and maintain a cat’s overall health.
Sources: Mental Floss, Quora.
Water Fountain vs. Water Bowl
Taste
Cats are known to prefer drinking from running water, as it is perceived as fresher and safer than stagnant water. A water fountain provides a constant stream of water that mimics the sound and movement of a natural water source, which can be more appealing to cats than a still water bowl. Additionally, a water fountain can help keep the water oxygenated, which can improve its taste and freshness.
Filtering
A water fountain typically comes with a filter that removes impurities and debris from the water, which can help keep the water clean and fresh. This can be especially important if your cat is prone to urinary tract infections or other health issues. A water bowl, on the other hand, does not typically come with a filter, which means that the water can become contaminated with bacteria and other harmful substances over time.
When choosing between a water fountain and a water bowl, it is important to consider factors such as location, play, and whiskers. A water fountain may be a better choice if you have multiple cats or if your cat enjoys playing with water. However, some cats may be sensitive to the sound and movement of a water fountain, and may prefer a still water bowl. Additionally, cats with sensitive whiskers may find it uncomfortable to drink from a water fountain, as the water may touch their whiskers.
In conclusion, whether your cat prefers a water fountain or a water bowl depends on their individual preferences and needs. It is important to provide fresh, clean water for your cat at all times, regardless of which option you choose.
Sources: PetMD
Conclusion
In conclusion, cats prefer to drink moving water. This is because they have a hard time seeing the water level and moving water helps them see where the surface is. Additionally, stagnant water can contain harmful bacteria, making moving water a safer option for cats.
Cats also have a natural instinct to seek out running water, as it is more likely to be fresh and clean. This instinct comes from their wild ancestors, who would drink from streams and rivers.
While some cats may be content with drinking still water, providing a source of moving water can benefit their health and well-being. This can be achieved through a pet fountain or by simply leaving a tap dripping.
Overall, understanding a cat’s preference for moving water can help pet owners provide the best care for their feline companions. By keeping their water source clean and fresh, cats can stay hydrated and healthy.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
