As responsible cat owners, we all want the best for our pets—from quality food to regular playtime. But one essential aspect of feline health is often overlooked: water intake. Proper hydration plays a vital role in your cat’s overall well-being, yet many cats don’t drink enough water daily. Here's why hydration matters, how to encourage your cat to drink more, and what you can do to support long-term health.
Why Cats Need Sufficient Water Every Day
Cats are descendants of desert-dwelling animals. Their ancestors got most of their hydration from prey, meaning domestic cats often have a naturally low thirst drive. However, modern diets—especially dry kibble—lack the moisture found in raw or wet food. This gap in hydration can put cats at risk of various health issues over time.
Key Benefits of Hydration:
Supports Kidney Function: Water helps flush toxins from the kidneys, reducing the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Promotes Urinary Tract Health: Hydration helps prevent urinary tract infections and minimizes the formation of crystals or bladder stones.
Aids Digestion: Proper hydration helps prevent constipation and supports smooth digestion.
Regulates Body Temperature: Particularly in warm weather, water helps your cat maintain a healthy internal temperature.
How Much Water Should Your Cat Drink?
On average, a healthy cat should drink about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day. For example, a 10-pound cat typically needs 7 to 9 ounces (200 to 250 milliliters) of water each day. This includes water from both food and direct drinking.
Cats on a dry food diet will naturally need to drink more water than cats who eat wet food, which contains up to 80% moisture.
Common Signs of Dehydration in Cats
It's not always easy to tell if your cat is dehydrated. Watch for the following symptoms:
- Dry or sticky gums
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Lethargy or low energy
- Sunken eyes
- Decreased urination
If you notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to consult your veterinarian.
How to Help Your Cat Drink More Water
Encouraging a cat to drink more water can take some creativity. Here are several proven tips:
Multiple Water Stations: Place bowls in different areas of your home to make access easier and more appealing.
Fresh, Clean Water Daily: Cats are sensitive to water cleanliness. Rinse and refill bowls regularly.
Use a Pet Fountain: Many cats prefer running water, which feels fresher and cleaner to them.
Add Safe Flavor Enhancers: Occasionally mixing in a bit of tuna juice or unsalted broth can entice picky drinkers.
Choose the Right Bowl: Try wide, shallow bowls to avoid whisker fatigue, which can discourage drinking.
RealFountain DailyFresh™: An Easy Way to Promote Healthy Hydration
Even with multiple bowls and fresh water, some cats still don’t drink enough. That’s where the RealFountain DailyFresh™ Pet Fountain can help. This automatic pet fountain creates a steady stream of clean, oxygenated water that naturally encourages cats to drink more.
Key Features:
DailyFresh™ Circulation System: Keeps water fresh by continuously filtering and oxygenating it.
Self-Cleaning and Auto-Refill: Reduces your workload while ensuring water is always available and clean.
10L Large-Capacity Reservoir: Ideal for multi-cat households or busy pet owners—offers up to 10 days of hands-free hydration.
Running Water Appeal: Mimics natural streams, which can attract even reluctant drinkers.
Clean-Water Separation: Advanced design keeps clean and used water separate, maintaining high hygiene standards.
Summary
- Hydration is critical to your cat’s kidney, urinary, digestive, and temperature regulation health.
- Cats often don’t drink enough, especially those on dry food diets.
- Offering multiple water sources and using flowing water solutions can significantly improve water intake.
- The RealFountain DailyFresh™ is a convenient, low-maintenance solution that supports healthy drinking habits in cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my cat is drinking enough water?
Monitor daily intake, check for signs of dehydration, and consider using a pet fountain to increase interest in drinking.
Why is running water better for cats?
Cats instinctively prefer moving water, which they perceive as cleaner and safer than stagnant water.
Can I add flavor to my cat’s fountain water?
Yes, small amounts of low-sodium chicken broth or tuna water can be added occasionally. Avoid additives or anything high in salt.
How often should I clean the RealFountain?
We recommend cleaning the unit once a week to maintain water freshness and device performance.
Is this fountain suitable for more than one cat?
Yes, the 10L capacity makes it perfect for homes with multiple cats.
Help your cat stay hydrated and healthy—every day.
Discover the difference RealFountain can make in your cat’s wellness routine.
👉 Explore RealFountain DailyFresh™