What Water Should Cats Drink? An Expert’s Guide

kitten looking at metal water bowl
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Cats are notorious for being picky eaters, but their drinking habits can be just as finicky. Understanding how much water your cat should drink and what type of water they prefer can be a challenge for many cat owners. Proper hydration is essential for a cat’s overall health and well-being, but what water should cats drink?

There are several factors to consider when it comes to cat hydration. The type of water, the amount of water, and the frequency of water consumption are all important considerations. Additionally, a cat’s diet, age, and overall health can also play a role in their water intake. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of cat hydration and provide some helpful tips for ensuring your furry friend stays properly hydrated.

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding your cat’s hydration needs is crucial for their overall health and well-being.
  • The type of water your cat drinks can impact their hydration levels.
  • A cat’s diet, age, and overall health can all influence their water intake.

What Water Should Cats Drink?

As a cat owner, you want to make sure your furry friend is properly hydrated. But what type of water should cats drink? Is tap water safe? Should you invest in a water filter or buy bottled water?

Here’s a summary table to help you make an informed decision:

Type of Water Pros Cons
Tap Water Convenient and readily available, generally safe and clean for human consumption May contain impurities or chemicals that could be harmful to cats, quality can vary depending on location
Filtered Water Removes impurities and chemicals from tap water, better taste and odor Requires investment in a water filter, filter needs to be replaced regularly
Bottled Water Generally safe and clean, convenient for travel or emergencies Can be expensive, not environmentally friendly, quality can vary depending on brand

In summary, cats can drink tap or filtered water as long as it is clean and safe. If you have concerns about the quality of your tap water, a water filter can be a good investment. Bottled water is generally safe, but it can be expensive and not always practical. Remember to always provide your cat with fresh water and clean their water bowl regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria. If you have any concerns about your cat’s hydration, consult with your veterinarian.

Filter Options

  1. Carbon Filters: These filters use activated carbon to remove impurities and chemicals from tap water. They are effective at removing chlorine, sediment, and some heavy metals, but they may not remove all contaminants.
  2. Reverse Osmosis Filters: These filters use a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities from water. They are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and dissolved minerals.
  3. Ceramic Filters: These filters use a porous ceramic material to trap impurities and bacteria. They are effective at removing sediment, bacteria, and some heavy metals, but they may not remove all contaminants.
  4. UV Filters: These filters use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses in water. They are effective at removing harmful microorganisms, but they do not remove other contaminants.
  5. Ion Exchange Filters: These filters use resin beads to remove dissolved minerals from water. They are effective at removing minerals like calcium and magnesium, but they do not remove other contaminants.
  6. Cat Water Fountain with Filters: These filters are designed specifically for cat water fountains and use a combination of activated carbon and physical filters to remove impurities, improve water taste and odor, and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

When choosing a filter for your cat’s water, consider factors like the quality of your tap water, the type of contaminants you want to remove, and the cost and maintenance requirements of the filter. It’s also important to choose a filter that is compatible with your cat’s water bowl or fountain.

Understanding Cat Hydration

Importance of Hydration

Cats need to stay hydrated to maintain their health. Adequate hydration helps maintain their body temperature, supports organ function, and promotes healthy skin and coat. Water also helps flush waste products out of their system.

Cats can get most of their water from drinking, but they also get some from their food. Wet food diets can contain up to 80% water and help improve your pet’s hydration. However, cats that eat dry food need to drink more water to stay hydrated.

cat sipping from water faucet

Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration is when your cat uses or loses more fluids than they take in, which creates an imbalance of water and electrolytes in the body. When this occurs, their bodies are unable to function properly. Dehydration can be caused by more than just a lack of water consumption.

Some signs of dehydration in cats include:

  • Dry mouth and nose
  • Sunken eyes
  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Lethargy or decreased activity
  • Loss of appetite

If you suspect your cat is dehydrated, contact your veterinarian immediately.

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Types of Water for Cats

Tap Water

Tap water is safe for cats to drink, but it may contain impurities or chemicals that can affect their health. Some cats may also be sensitive to the taste or smell of tap water, which can make them reluctant to drink it. If you choose to give your cat tap water, make sure it is fresh and clean.

Filtered Water

Filtered water is a good option for cats, as it removes impurities and chemicals that may be present in tap water. It also improves the taste and smell of the water, which can encourage cats to drink more. You can use a water filter pitcher or a faucet-mounted filter to provide your cat with filtered water.

blue plastic cat water fountain with cat drinking

Water Fountains

Water fountains are a great way to provide cats with fresh, clean water. They circulate the water, which keeps it oxygenated and free of bacteria. Cats are also attracted to the sound and movement of the water, which can encourage them to drink more. Make sure to clean the fountain regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria.

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Influence of Diet on Water Intake

Dry Food

Dry food has low moisture content, which means that cats eating dry food need to drink more water to maintain their hydration levels. Cats on a diet of only dry food tend to drink more water than cats on wet food diets. However, it is essential to ensure that your cat drinks enough water to prevent dehydration.

Wet Food

Wet food has a higher moisture content than dry food, which means that cats eating wet food may not need to drink as much water. Wet food can be a good source of hydration for cats. If your cat is not drinking enough water, you can try adding wet food to their diet.

Milk for Cats

Milk is a popular beverage for cats, but it is not a substitute for water. Cats are lactose intolerant, which means that they cannot digest lactose in milk. Feeding your cat milk can cause digestive problems and diarrhea. It is best to provide your cat with fresh water at all times.

Health Problems Related to Water Intake

Kidney Diseases

Chronic kidney disease is common in cats and can lead to dehydration. If your cat has kidney problems, they may not drink enough water, which can worsen their condition. Symptoms of kidney disease include vomiting, weight loss, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

Diabetes

Diabetes can also affect a cat’s water intake. High blood sugar levels can cause increased thirst and urination, leading to dehydration. If your cat has diabetes, it’s important to monitor their water intake and ensure they are drinking enough to stay hydrated.

Cancer

Cancer can also impact a cat’s water intake. Certain types of cancers can cause dehydration, such as those affecting the kidneys or urinary tract. If your cat has cancer, it’s important to monitor their water intake and ensure they are drinking enough to stay hydrated.

How Age and Sex Affect Water Intake

Kittens and Adult Cats

Kittens have a higher requirement for water than adult cats because they are growing and developing. According to Cats Protection, kittens up to three months old should drink 70ml of water per day, while six-month-old kittens should drink 135ml per day. On the other hand, adult cats need about 200ml of water per day, but this can vary depending on their activity levels and the type of food they eat. Wet food contains more water than dry food, so cats eating wet food may drink less water.

Male and Female Cats

Male and female cats have similar water requirements. However, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine reports that male cats are more prone to developing urinary tract problems, which can be exacerbated by dehydration. Therefore, it is important to ensure that male cats drink enough water to prevent these problems.

In conclusion, the amount of water cats need depends on their age, activity levels, and the type of food they eat. Kittens and male cats need more water than adult cats and female cats, respectively. It is important to monitor your cat’s water intake to ensure that they are properly hydrated and to prevent health problems.

Other Factors Influencing Water Intake

Exercise and Environment

Exercise and environment can affect a cat’s water intake. Cats that are more active or live in warmer environments may need to drink more water to stay hydrated. According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, cats that eat dry food may need to drink more water than those that eat wet food.

Cost and Quality of Water

The cost and quality of water can also affect a cat’s water intake. Some cat owners may choose to give their cats bottled water or filtered water to ensure its quality. However, this can be expensive and may not be necessary in all cases. According to Vet Focus, tap water is generally safe for cats to drink, but it should be tested for contaminants such as sodium and sugar.

Medications and Supplements

Medications and supplements can also affect a cat’s water intake. Some medications may cause cats to drink more or less water than usual. According to Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, some supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids can increase a cat’s water intake. It is important to talk to a veterinarian before giving a cat any medications or supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cats drink tap water?

Yes, cats can drink tap water if it is safe for human consumption. However, some tap water may contain harmful substances that can be dangerous to cats. It is best to check with your local water authority to ensure that the water is safe for your cat to drink.

Best water for cats with urinary issues

Cats with urinary issues should drink water that is low in minerals and pH. Distilled water or water that has been filtered through a reverse osmosis system is a good option.

Can cats drink boiled water?

Boiling water can remove impurities and kill bacteria, making it safe for cats to drink. However, boiled water may not be the most palatable option for cats.

Is spring water good for cats?

Spring water can be a good option for cats as it is typically low in minerals and pH. However, not all spring water is the same, so it is important to check the label and ensure that it is safe for human consumption.

Best bottled water for cats

Bottled water that is low in minerals and pH is the best option for cats. Look for water that has been purified through processes such as distillation or reverse osmosis.

What is the ideal water bowl for a cat?

The ideal water bowl for a cat is one that is wide and shallow. Cats prefer to drink from bowls that do not touch their whiskers. It is also important to clean the water bowl regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.


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