How to get your cat to drink more water

Why cats under-drink

House cats are descended from desert-dwelling wildcats, so they have a naturally low thirst drive and evolved to get most of their moisture from fresh prey. On a dry-food diet that instinct works against them, and many cats live mildly under-hydrated — which over time can put strain on the kidneys and bladder.

The goal isn't to force water, but to make drinking easy, appealing, and available in more places than one.

Move water away from food and litter

In the wild, cats don't drink where they eat or where they toilet. A bowl pushed right next to the food can quietly put them off. Try placing water stations a little away from both the food bowl and the litter tray, and add a second or third bowl around the home so a drink is never more than a room away.

Offer moving, fresh water

Many cats strongly prefer water that moves — it reads as fresher and is easier to locate. A quiet circulating fountain keeps water aerated and filtered, and the gentle sound draws curious cats in. Whatever you use, change the water daily, wash the bowl or fountain regularly, and replace any filter on schedule so nothing develops a stale taste.

• Use wide, shallow bowls to avoid whisker fatigue against the sides
• Ceramic or stainless steel stay fresher than plastic, which can hold odours
• Keep at least one water source on each floor of your home

Add moisture to meals

Diet is the biggest lever of all. Wet food can dramatically increase total water intake, and you can stir a little extra warm water into both wet and dry meals. Some cats enjoy a few ice cubes in the bowl on warm days, or a splash of the water from a tin of plain, unsalted fish.

When to call your vet

A sudden, noticeable change in drinking — either much more or much less — can be an early sign of kidney, thyroid, or urinary issues. If you spot a clear shift, or your cat strains in the litter tray, speak to your vet rather than waiting it out.