How Do I Trick My Cat into Drinking Water?

Cats prey on mice, and mice are about 70% water. Cats are genetically programmed to replenish water every day by hunting prey. Therefore, they don't think it's necessary to find other sources of water. Even so, cats don't need that much water. However, it's still important to make sure they drink enough water to stay hydrated, especially in this hot weather.

When you hold a bowl of water and beg, plead, and worry to your cat, it just stares at you blankly and licks its paws indifferently. So, what can you do?

9 Easy Ways to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

1. Add wet food to your cat's diet

Water isn't the only way to keep your cat hydrated! We mentioned earlier that cats are used to getting liquids from their food. Dry cat food usually only contains about 10% water, while canned cat food contains about 78% water. If your cat has been eating dry cat food, why not change it up a bit and add some wet food to its meals?

2. Change the location of your cat's water bowl

Many cat owners tend to place their water bowl against a wall so it's out of the way. But cats don't like to be trapped in a corner or have their backs exposed to danger to avoid being attacked. Instead, place the water bowl where they can quickly observe their surroundings at any time.

3. Add flavor to your cat's water

Crush some catnip and add it to the water dish to entice your cat to drink more water! Alternatively, you can scoop some low-sodium tuna or chicken broth into your cat's water.

4. Try using different kinds of water bowls

Your cat may avoid its water bowl because bending over and exposing its neck makes it feel vulnerable. If so, try buying a taller water bowl. The material of the water bowl is also important! Cats can detect subtle differences in the taste of water depending on the material of the water bowl. Buy water bowls of different materials and see which one your cat likes!

Cats' whiskers are very sensitive and they don't like to drink from the water bowl, which will constantly rub against the edge of the bowl. Switch out deep water bowls for shallow ones and see if your cat licks the water more frequently. But make sure you put a consistent amount of water in the bowl.

5. Use a cat water fountain

Cats love running water. Cats are instinctively suspicious of still water because they associate it with contaminated water. While cats have excellent night vision, they have a poor ability to see still water - the water in a water bowl is almost invisible to them.

6. Make sure to clean your cat's water dish every day

Cats are probably one of the cleanest mammals, and if the water in their water dish is not fresh or clean, they will most likely not drink. Clean your cat's water dish and change the water regularly to ensure that the water is free of bacteria and other contaminants.

7. Change the water source

Maybe your cat doesn't like the taste of tap water? Use bottled water instead of a water dish! Experiment and you'll always find water that suits your cat's taste.

8. Add ice cubes to the water bowl

You've seen videos online of cats playing with ice cubes - they're so cute. Many cats are fascinated by the way ice cubes slosh around in their water. Adding a few ice cubes to your cat's water bowl should encourage him to drink more water and keep him happy at the same time.

9. Offer smaller but more frequent meals

Cats tend to want to lick up some water after eating. By breaking up your cat's daily meals into several smaller meals spread out throughout the day, you can encourage him to drink more often!