How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water
Lack of Water Can Cause Feline Urinary Tract Problems
Jun 18, 2009
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), urinary crystals, and kidney disease are common problems that afflict cats. A pet owner can not simply tell his cat to drink more water, but there are ways to encourage felines to increase their intake of fluids.
Cleanliness
Cats are very clean animals, and by nature, will not drink stagnant water, or water from a dirty bowl. Make sure you wash your cat's water bowl on a regular basis. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are best, as plastic bowls can lock in bacteria and odors. If you use plastic bowls, they should be replaced every year.
Found water
The natural instinct of cats is to explore any water they find in their travels around the house. Offering your feline more than one bowl of water in different locations throughout the house will encourage the cat to stop and take a sip from each one. If your cat has had urinary tract or kidney problems in the past, it is wise to place up to six bowls in various locations throughout its living space.
Water Fountains
Have you ever noticed that a cat is fascinated by running water? A leaky faucet or a stream of water from a tap can keep a cat entertained for hours. Again, this is part of the natural instinct of felines. Running water tends to be the freshest, and the internal programming of a cat tells it to seek out running water.
Water fountains can be purchased for cats that encourage them to drink. They also usually come with carbon filter inserts that will absorb any impurities in the water, keeping it fresh and clean, just the way cats like it.
Cat Milk
Cats love milk, but cow milk is hard for cats to digest, and many cats are lactose intolerant. You can buy milk that is specially formulated for cats that is lactose free and easy to digest.
This is not to be confused with a milk replacement for kittens. Cat milk is a treat for cats that often comes in a juice box container, not a dietary supplement for kittens. Your feline will relish the fact that you have treated him to some cat milk, and the cat will get the fluid it needs at the same time.
Canned Food
Canned cat food is at least seventy-five percent water, so giving her a can or two a day will increase her intake of fluids.
Make sure it is a high quality food and not a grocery brand though, as low quality foods are often filled with sugar, salt, ash, magnesium, and dyes. Too much of these ingredients can cause the urinary tract and kidney problems that you are trying to prevent by giving your cat more fluids in the first place.
Cats make wonderful pets for any household, and making sure your cat drinks enough water will keep your furry family member happy and healthy for many years to come.
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