I’m what some people would call a “water girly”.
I carry a reusable bottle around my house 24/7. I add electrolytes to my water to help improve hydration. I’m constantly on the lookout for a bathroom to use.
You get the idea.
But my cats? They’re a different story. They prefer to play in their water bowl instead of drink from it.
I know this isn’t good, and that staying hydrated is important for a cat’s health both short-term and long-term. That’s why I’ve been focused on getting my cats to consume more water (notice I didn’t just say “drink”!).
Here are a few of the ways I’m doing that:
How I’m Helping My Two Cats Stay Hydrated
Clean, Fresh Water Every Day
As a cat guardian, you probably already know how important it is to give your cat fresh, clean water every day. But are you actually following through with that?
Take the extra minute to scrub out the bowl every morning (or two minutes…our cats like to dip their paws in their water after using the litter box…gross). Your cat should be more interested in the water when it’s fresh and free from any gunk. Plus, watching you clean and fill the bowl will bring even more of their attention to it. Win-win!
A Note on Water Fountains for Cats
We tried using a cat water fountain for about a year, but it didn’t work well for us. The girls always chose to use their regular bowl over it, and the cost of constant upkeep and filter replacements just wasn’t worth it. You and your cat may feel differently, but for us, we’ll be sticking to regular bowls from here on out.
Prioritizing Wet Cat Food
Did you know that wet cat food can provide a ton of hydration for your cat?
Well you do now!
Wet cat food is a must in our house. Not only do I feel better about the overall nutritional profile of the food, but I also rest easier knowing my cats are getting extra fluid from the moisture in the food itself—and the gravy on top. Plus, my kitties just love it. In fact, one will always start her meal by licking off ALL of the juice before eating the actual food.
Now she’s one hydrated cat.
Giving Lots of Lickable Cat Treats
If you have a cat—or just love looking at cats on Instagram—you’ve probably heard of lickable cat treats. We’re thoroughly obsessed with Inaba Churus in our house. I won’t tell you how many my cats eat each day (Chewy please sponsor us) but let’s just say they’re getting a TON of extra water from the treats.
Cat broths are also a big hit—and a hydration staple—in our house. We love Inaba’s (of course) and have recently discovered the magic that is Tiny Tiger Lickable Cat Treats. My cats go nuts for them, and I’m just happy they’re getting even more water through the supplemental food to help keep them healthy!
Pay Attention to Your Cat’s Hydration
At the end of the day, you are responsible for taking care of your pet’s health. It’s not enough to just set out a bowl of water and hope for the best. Take an active interest in how much liquid your cat is consuming, watch for changes, and discuss everything with your trusted vet.
Bottom’s up!
I know a lot about cats, but I’m not a veterinarian or animal welfare professional. Please don’t take any of the statements I give as medical advice and do always consult your trusted vet, rescue group, or welfare professional, especially if your cat is experiencing behavioral or physical challenges.
Pawsitive Purrpose 