Some cats don’t naturally drink a lot of water and may need a bit of encouragement. The good news is there are a few simple things you can try that often make a big difference.
Keep water fresh
Cats can be picky about freshness. Change their water at least once a day (more if needed), and give the bowl a quick rinse to remove any dust, food particles, or slime build-up.
Try different bowls
Some cats prefer certain types of bowls. Wide, shallow dishes are often better as they don’t touch their whiskers (which some cats dislike). Materials can also matter — ceramic, glass, or stainless steel are usually preferred over plastic.
Move the water bowl
Cats often don’t like their water right next to their food or litter tray. Try placing water bowls in a few different, quiet spots around the house to see where your cat prefers to drink.
Add more water sources
Having multiple bowls available can encourage your cat to drink more, especially in larger homes or multi-cat households.
Consider a water fountain
Many cats are drawn to moving water. A pet fountain can make drinking more appealing and may encourage them to drink more often.
Incorporate wet food
If your cat eats mostly dry food, adding wet food into their diet is one of the easiest ways to boost their overall water intake.
Keep things clean
Make sure bowls, fountains, and surrounding areas are kept clean. Cats are sensitive to smells and may avoid water that doesn’t seem fresh.
Small changes can go a long way. It’s often about trial and error to find what your cat prefers but once you do, it can make staying hydrated much easier.
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