Your Cat Won’t Drink Water: Why & What to Do

If your cat isn’t drinking water, it’s a serious concern that needs immediate attention. Cats not drinking enough water can quickly become dehydrated, which is a dangerous condition. This lack of adequate water intake can be a symptom of various underlying issues, ranging from simple preferences to more severe signs of illness impacting their overall feline health. This guide will explore the common reasons why your feline friend might be avoiding their water bowl and provide practical solutions to ensure they stay hydrated.

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Reasons for Reduced Water Intake

There are numerous factors that can influence a cat’s desire to drink water. These can be broadly categorized into environmental preferences, dietary influences, and medical conditions.

Environmental and Behavioral Factors

Cats are notoriously particular creatures, and their drinking habits can be a reflection of their surroundings and personal tastes.

Water Bowl Preferences

The type, location, and cleanliness of the water bowl play a significant role in a cat’s willingness to drink.

• Bowl Material: Some cats are sensitive to the taste or smell that certain materials can impart to water.

  • Plastic: Can absorb odors and harbor bacteria, even with regular cleaning. Some cats dislike the plastic smell.
  • Ceramic/Porcelain: Generally a good option as they are non-porous and easy to clean. However, some ceramic glazes can contain lead.
  • Stainless Steel: Durable, easy to clean, and doesn’t retain odors. Some cats might find the metallic taste off-putting.
  • Glass: Similar to ceramic, but can be fragile.

• Bowl Shape and Depth: A cat’s whiskers are highly sensitive, and if they brush against the sides of a deep or narrow bowl while drinking, it can cause a sensation called “whisker fatigue.”

  • Shallow, wide bowls are often preferred as they allow the cat to drink without their whiskers touching the edges.
  • Bowls that are too deep can be intimidating or uncomfortable for some cats.

• Water Freshness and Cleanliness: Cats are naturally drawn to fresh, clean water. Stale, dirty water, or water with food particles will deter them.

  • Daily cleaning of the water bowl is crucial.
  • Changing the water at least once daily is recommended, more often if it gets contaminated with saliva or food.

• Location, Location, Location: Where you place the water bowl is vital.

  • Proximity to the Litter Box: Cats are fastidious and do not like to drink near where they eliminate. Keep water bowls far away from litter boxes.
  • Proximity to Food: While some cats prefer their water near their food, others find it unsettling due to the association of food with hunting and potential contamination. Experiment with placement.
  • High-Traffic Areas: A busy, noisy location can make a cat feel unsafe and unwilling to drink.
  • Quiet, Secure Spots: Cats often prefer to drink in calm, out-of-the-way places where they feel secure and can observe their surroundings.

Water Source Preferences

Beyond the bowl itself, cats might have preferences for the type of water they drink.

• Tap Water vs. Bottled Water: Some cats may dislike the taste or smell of chlorinated tap water.

  • Filtered water or bottled spring water can be a more appealing option.
  • Allowing tap water to sit out for a few hours can help the chlorine evaporate, potentially making it more palatable.

• Moving Water: Many cats are instinctively drawn to moving water sources, likely a leftover trait from their wild ancestors who knew that moving water was less likely to be contaminated.

  • Pet drinking fountains are excellent for encouraging water intake. They provide a continuous flow of fresh, oxygenated water.
  • Different fountain designs exist, so if one doesn’t work, try another. Some cats prefer the sound of the water, others the gentle flow.

Dietary Influences

A cat’s diet significantly impacts their overall hydration, and therefore their need to drink from a water bowl.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food

This is arguably the most significant dietary factor influencing a cat’s water intake.

• Wet Food: Canned or pouch cat food typically contains 70-80% moisture.

  • Cats fed a primarily wet food diet may not feel the need to drink as much from a bowl because they are already getting a substantial amount of their required water intake from their meals.

• Dry Food (Kibble): Kibble is very dry, typically containing only 10-12% moisture.

  • Cats fed exclusively dry food must drink more water from their bowls to stay adequately hydrated. If your cat is on dry food and not drinking enough, this is a major red flag for potential dehydration.

Palatability of Food

If a cat finds their food particularly tasty, they may be less inclined to supplement it with water. However, this is less common as a primary reason for refusal to drink water.

Medical Conditions and Health Concerns

When environmental and dietary factors are ruled out, a cat’s refusal to drink water can point to more serious health issues. It’s crucial to be aware of the signs of illness that might accompany reduced water intake.

Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive and irreversible condition that is common in older cats.

• How it affects drinking: As kidney function declines, the kidneys are less able to concentrate urine. This means the cat loses more water through their urine and can become chronically dehydrated. Paradoxically, while cats with kidney disease often drink more to compensate for fluid loss, a sudden decrease in drinking can indicate a worsening of the disease or another concurrent problem. Early stages might show increased thirst, but later stages can involve reduced appetite and, consequently, reduced water intake.
• Other signs: Lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, poor coat condition, increased urination, and bad breath.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Bladder Issues

Inflammation or infection in the urinary tract can make urination painful.

• How it affects drinking: A cat experiencing pain during urination might associate drinking water with that pain, leading them to avoid it.
• Other signs: Straining to urinate, frequent urination of small amounts, blood in the urine, vocalizing while in the litter box, and licking the genital area.

Dental Problems

Oral pain can make drinking uncomfortable.

• How it affects drinking: Gingivitis, tooth abscesses, or broken teeth can cause pain when a cat laps up water.
• Other signs: Drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty chewing, bad breath, and red or swollen gums.

Nausea and Gastrointestinal Upset

Many illnesses cause nausea, which can significantly reduce a cat’s desire to eat or drink.

• How it affects drinking: Feeling sick to their stomach can lead to a general disinterest in anything, including water.
• Other signs: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.

Diabetes Mellitus

This metabolic disorder affects how the body uses sugar.

• How it affects drinking: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to increased urination and a subsequent increase in thirst. However, if the cat is also losing its appetite due to complications or is in a severe stage, they might reduce their intake of both food and water.
• Other signs: Increased appetite, weight loss, increased urination, and lethargy.

Fever and Infections

When a cat is fighting an infection or has a fever, their body’s needs change.

• How it affects drinking: A general feeling of being unwell, coupled with potential nausea, can lead to decreased water intake.
• Other signs: Lethargy, shivering, loss of appetite, and changes in breathing.

Dehydration itself

This is a critical state where the body loses more fluid than it takes in.

• Causes of dehydration: Vomiting, diarrhea, fever, insufficient water intake, and certain diseases can all lead to dehydration.
• Why a cat might drink less when dehydrated: In severe dehydration, a cat can become very lethargic and weak, making the effort to drink water too taxing. This creates a dangerous cycle.

Other Illnesses

A wide range of other conditions, including hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis, and even certain cancers, can manifest with a reduced desire to drink as part of a general decline in well-being.

How Much Water Should a Cat Drink?

Determining how much water should a cat drink can be tricky, as it depends on several factors, including diet, activity level, and climate.

• General Guideline: A healthy adult cat typically needs about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces (100-130 ml) of water per 5 pounds (2.2 kg) of body weight per day.
• Impact of Diet: As mentioned, cats on wet food diets get a significant portion of their hydration from their food, so their bowl water intake will be lower than a cat on a dry food diet.
• Environmental Factors: In hot weather or if the cat is very active, their water needs will increase.
• Observation is Key: Monitor your cat’s habits. If they are eating normally, have regular urine output, and are otherwise healthy, their current water intake is likely sufficient. However, any significant change is cause for concern.

Signs of Dehydration in Cats

Recognizing the signs of illness related to dehydration is crucial. Early detection can save your cat’s life.

• Lethargy and Weakness: A dehydrated cat will often appear unusually tired and less responsive.
• Loss of Appetite: They may refuse food as well as water.
• Sunken Eyes: The eyes may appear to sink into their sockets.
• Dry Gums and Nose: The mucous membranes inside the mouth should be moist. If they feel dry or sticky to the touch, it’s a sign of dehydration.
• Loss of Skin Elasticity: Gently pinch the skin on the back of your cat’s neck. In a well-hydrated cat, the skin will snap back into place immediately. In a dehydrated cat, it will remain tented or return slowly. This is a key indicator of causes of dehydration.
• Reduced Urination: If you notice your cat is not urinating as frequently as usual, or producing very concentrated urine, it could be a sign of dehydration.
• Panting: While cats don’t pant as readily as dogs, it can be a sign of overheating or severe distress, which often accompanies dehydration.

What to Do If Your Cat Isn’t Drinking

If you’ve noticed your cat isn’t drinking water, it’s time to take action.

Step 1: Assess the Situation and Rule Out Obvious Issues

Before jumping to medical conclusions, check the basics.

• Cleanliness: Is the water bowl sparkling clean? Has it been washed with mild soap and rinsed thoroughly?
• Freshness: Is the water fresh? Was it changed today?
• Bowl Type: Are you using a bowl that might be causing whisker fatigue? Try a shallow, wide ceramic or stainless steel bowl.
• Location: Is the bowl in a quiet, safe spot away from the litter box and high-traffic areas?
• Water Type: Try offering filtered or bottled water.

Step 2: Encourage Drinking with Alternatives and Enhancements

Sometimes, a little nudge is all that’s needed.

Enhancing Water Palatability

• Add a Flavor Enhancer: A tiny amount of tuna juice (in water, not oil) or low-sodium chicken broth can make water more appealing. Use sparingly to avoid developing a taste for only flavored water.
• Ice Cubes: Some cats enjoy batting at or licking ice cubes, which can add a novel element to their water.
• Water Fountains: As previously mentioned, a pet drinking fountain can be a game-changer for many cats, encouraging them to drink more by providing flowing, aerated water.

Offering Alternatives to Water

When direct water intake is a problem, consider these alternatives to water:

• Wet Food: Transitioning to or increasing the amount of wet food in your cat’s diet is one of the most effective ways to boost their water intake. Ensure the wet food is of good quality.
• Broth: Offer plain, low-sodium chicken or beef broth (specifically made for pets or very plain, unseasoned human broth) in a separate bowl. Never use onion or garlic broth, as these are toxic to cats.
• Hydrating Treats: Some pet food companies offer hydrating gel or lickable treats that can contribute to fluid intake.

Step 3: Monitor Closely for Other Signs of Illness

While implementing changes to encourage drinking, keep a close eye on your cat for any other behavioral changes or signs of illness.

• Lethargy: Is your cat sleeping more than usual?
• Appetite Changes: Are they eating less or refusing food?
• Vomiting or Diarrhea: Any digestive upset needs immediate attention.
• Changes in Urination: Note frequency and appearance.
• Grooming Habits: Are they grooming themselves less? Is their coat becoming dull?

Step 4: Consult Your Veterinarian

If your cat continues to refuse water, shows any of the signs of illness mentioned above, or if you are concerned about potential dehydration, it is imperative to seek veterinary advice promptly.

• Why see a vet? A veterinarian can perform a physical examination, blood tests, and urine analysis to identify the underlying cause of the reduced water intake. They can diagnose conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, UTIs, or dental issues.
• Treatment: Treatment will depend entirely on the diagnosis. It might involve fluid therapy for dehydration, antibiotics for infections, dietary changes, dental work, or management of chronic conditions.

Common Misconceptions and FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about cats and water.

FAQ

• Q: Can my cat get enough water from dry food alone?
  A: No, it is highly unlikely. Dry food is very low in moisture, and cats relying solely on it must drink from their water bowls to stay hydrated.
  

• Q: My cat only drinks from the toilet. Is that okay?
  A: While some cats prefer toilet water, it’s not ideal. Toilet bowls can contain bacteria, cleaning chemicals, or even trace amounts of waste. It’s better to provide fresh, appealing water in a designated bowl or fountain.
  

• Q: My cat seems fine, but I don’t see them drinking much. Should I worry?
  A: It’s always best to err on the side of caution. If you are not observing them drink regularly, try some of the methods to encourage water intake. If there’s no change, consult your vet.

• Q: Can stress make my cat not drink water?
  A: Yes, stress can affect a cat’s behavior, including their eating and drinking habits. Changes in their environment, new pets, or even loud noises can cause stress. Providing a calm environment and ensuring their water sources are in secure locations can help.

• Q: How can I tell if my cat is getting enough fluids?
  A: Monitor their urine output (frequency and color), their energy levels, and their skin elasticity. If they are alert, eating, and urinating normally, they are likely getting enough.

Prevention is Key

Maintaining your cat’s health involves being proactive.

• Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Annual or biannual check-ups can catch health issues early.
• Balanced Diet: Consider incorporating wet food into your cat’s diet to naturally increase their fluid intake.
• Hydration Stations: Set up multiple water bowls or a drinking fountain in quiet areas of your home.
• Observe Habits: Pay attention to your cat’s normal drinking patterns so you can spot changes quickly.

By paying close attention to your cat’s behavior, diet, and environment, you can ensure they are getting the necessary water intake for good feline health and prevent potentially life-threatening dehydration. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian.