It's essential for our pets to stay hydrated, so what should you do if your cat won't drink water? Our vets in Boulder and Westminster list some reasons why your cat may not be drinking and what you to do next.
Why won't my cat drink water?
To be healthy, all animals must stay hydrated. Animals typically drink when they are thirsty, and each animal requires a different amount of water to stay hydrated. So, even if your cat appears to be drinking little, they may be getting enough water.
While dogs frequently drink large amounts of water at once, cats tend to drink small amounts at a time.
Dogs also need significantly more water per kilogram than cats, so your cat may not need to drink as much as you believe.
If your cat eats dry food, they will need more water than a cat who eats fresh or canned food. Cats usually consume about one ounce of water for every ounce of dry food. In contrast, cats that eat wet foods will drink significantly less because their food provides the majority of their hydration.
That being said, you could be right; perhaps your cat isn't drinking enough water. If your cat refuses to drink water, it could be because of the bowl's location, an underlying health condition, or the quality of the water.
Signs That Your Cat May Be Dehydrated
Dehydration can seriously threaten your cat's health. Cats that don't drink enough water may quickly become dehydrated. There are a few ways to check whether your cat may be dehydrated.
- Skin Elasticity - Gently pinch the extra skin between your cat's shoulder blades to form a tent-like shape to check its elasticity. Once you let go, watch to see whether your kitty's skin snaps back to normal in less than a second. If this doesn't occur, your kitty may be dehydrated.
- Dry Mouth - Look at your cat's gums - are they pink and moist? Press your finger against your cat's gums and check whether the pressed spot turns white. If they don't return to a healthy pink color within one to two seconds of removing your finger, your cat may be dehydrated.
- Sunken Eyes - Look into your cat's yes - do they seem to lack focus or do they appear dull or sunken? This may point to dehydration.
- Constipation - Do a litter box check. When cats are dehydrated they often become constipated. If your cat hasn't been passing as much stool as they usually do, dehydration may be to blame.
- Panting - Unlike dogs, cats don't often pant. If your feline friend is panting they may be dehydrated.
If your cat is showing signs of dehydration contact your vet right away. Dehydration in cats can be fatal, and once the symptoms above become evident your cat is likely to be severely dehydrated and in need of emergency veterinary care.
How to Hydrate a Cat That Won't Drink Water
If you are concerned that your cat isn't drinking enough water, but they are not showing any of the symptoms above there are a few things you can try to increase your cat's water consumption.
- Ensure that your cat's water bowl is not near their litter box. If it is, move it to a better spot in the room or a different room altogether.
- Provide fresh water daily. Many cats will not drink water that has been sitting for an extended period.
- Try moving the bowl to a different location (even if it's not near the litter box).
- Try a different bowl or a bowl that provides running water for cats to enjoy.
- If your cat eats dry food switch to canned.
Serious Health Conditions Linked To Dehydration in Cats
If you believe your cat is not drinking enough water, contact your veterinarian immediately. Dehydration can indicate a serious underlying condition, such as kidney disease, heatstroke, or diabetes. When it comes to your cat's health, always be cautious.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.