Did you know that our domesticated feline friends may need a little extra help to stay healthily hydrated?

Why are some cats at risk of dehydration?

• Some cats may not drink enough water on a regular basis, as:
• Cats can be naturally sensitive to water tastes and may have very specific drinking preferences (such as running water from a tap or water pooled in the shower)
• Anxious cats or cats in multi-pet households may feel vulnerable whilst drinking
• Cats in the wild don’t naturally drink water when eating wet food or fresh prey
• Cats have a reduced thirst drive compared to dogs
• A single lap gives your cat only about 3/100th of a teaspoon of water!

How can I encourage healthy drinking in my cat?

It may surprise you to know that many high-quality, veterinary-approved dry cat foods have a mildly increased salt content to help promote drinking.
So, if your cat is on a dry food diet, ensure they are always provided with fresh water daily, the way they like it (e.g. their preferred bowl type, or access to the shower!). It may also be worth trialling some flavoured water options, particularly more viscous liquids that cats find easier and more appealing to drink, such as feline-safe gravies or milk.

However, suppose your cat has been diagnosed with a lower urinary tract disease (such as bladder stones or inflammatory bladder problems) or kidney disease that requires even more hydration to support their condition. In that case, it may be worth chatting with our vets about swapping to either a 100% tinned food diet or a prescription therapeutic diet.

For more personalised information on the healthiest diet and drinking habits for your fussy feline, ask our knowledgeable vets.