Cats naturally don’t like to drink water, but insufficient water intake can easily lead to urinary tract diseases, kidney failure, and other health problems. As a cat owner, how can you get your cat to drink more water on its own? This guide shares 10 scientifically proven methods to help your cat stay properly hydrated!

🐱 Why don’t cats like to drink water?

Cats’ ancestors originated from desert environments, and their bodily structure is adapted to obtaining water from their prey rather than drinking it actively. Modern house cats that only eat dry food are prone to dehydration, so they need their owners to encourage them to drink water.💦 10 practical tips to encourage cats to drink more water

1. Use flowing water—cats love it!
   ✅ Purchase a pet water fountain (silent models recommended). Flowing water sparks cats’ curiosity.
   ✅ Scientific basis: Cats instinctively perceive flowing water as fresher and safer.
   🔹 Alternative: Place a water bowl near an aquarium; the sound of flowing water may attract cats.
2. Place multiple water bowls to make water readily available
   🚀 Place 3–5 water bowls in areas cats frequently visit (windowsills, near cat trees, bedrooms) to increase drinking opportunities.
   ⚠️ Avoid placing them near litter boxes or food bowls (cats dislike contaminated water sources).
3. Choose the right water bowl—wide-mouth, shallow bowls are best
   🍽️ Material: ceramic or stainless steel (plastic can harbor bacteria).
   🎯 Shape: wide-mouth, shallow bowls to prevent the cat’s whiskers from touching the edges (“whisker fatigue” can make cats reluctant to drink).
4. Make the water more appealing — add flavor
   🍗 Give cats cooled water from boiling chicken breast (unsalted).
   🐟 Add a small amount of tuna juice or catnip (use sparingly to avoid dependency).
5. Wet food hydration method — the most direct and effective
   🥫 Replace dry food with wet food cans, which contain up to 70%-80% water.
   💧 Soak dry food in water (gradually increase the water amount to help the cat adapt).
6. Ice cube game — drink while playing
   ❄️ Freeze some meat broth ice cubes (salt-free) or regular ice cubes; the cat will lick them and consume water.
7. Try Different Water Temperatures
   🌡️ Some cats prefer cool water (add ice cubes in summer), while others prefer room-temperature water. Observe your cat’s preferences.
8. Use a Cup/Glass Bowl to “Trick” Your Cat into Drinking
   😼 Many cats enjoy drinking from their owner’s cup. You can place a wide-mouth glass cup specifically for them.
9. Change Water Regularly to Keep It Fresh
   🚰 Change the water 1-2 times daily and clean the water bowl (to prevent bacterial growth that affects taste).
10. Monitor water intake and seek veterinary care if necessary
    📌 Normal water intake: approximately 50-60ml per kilogram of body weight daily (reduce if feeding wet food).
    ⚠️ If the cat suddenly drinks excessively or too little, it may be a sign of illness—seek veterinary care promptly!