Cats can occasionally exhibit unusual behaviors, like drinking more water than normal. Increased water intake may indicate health issues or environmental factors affecting their hydration needs. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior and knowing when to act can help ensure your cat's well-being.

How Much Water Should Cats Drink Daily?

Cats typically need about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight each day. For example, a 10-pound cat should drink approximately 7 to 9 ounces daily. This amount includes water obtained through food, so cats eating wet food may naturally consume less water than those on a dry diet. Wet food has a high moisture content, often around 70-80%, while dry food has only about 10%.

If your cat doesn’t seem to drink enough water, consider encouraging hydration with a pet water fountain. Flowing water is more appealing to cats, mimicking the running streams they would encounter in the wild. Cat Water Fountain offers a continuous flow of fresh, filtered water, which can help your cat stay properly hydrated.

Related Reading: How Long Can Cats Without Water

Encourage Hydration with the Right Tools

Oneisall Cat Water Fountain is crafted from durable, 304 stainless steel. Is easy to clean, and resistant to wear, ensuring it is safe for your cat’s daily use. With its built-in multi-layer filtration system, the fountain removes impurities, hair, and debris, keeping the water fresh and appealing to your cat.

To ensure the water stays clean and filtered, the filters should be replaced regularly as the manufacturer recommends, typically every 2-4 weeks. The fountain should also be washed weekly using pet-safe soap and warm water, thoroughly rinsing to remove any residue. Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about your cat’s water intake.

Related Reading: Keep Your Dog Healthy With A Water Fountain

Factors That Affect How Much a Cat Drinks

The amount of water a cat needs can vary based on several factors:

Diet

Cats on dry food require more water because they aren’t getting moisture from their meals. Wet food eaters often drink less but still meet their hydration needs through their food.

Environment

Hot or dry climates can increase a cat’s water requirements, just as humans drink more in hotter weather.

Activity Level

Active cats burn more energy and may need more water to replenish fluids lost during play.

Health Conditions

Certain medical issues, such as kidney disease or diabetes, can cause excessive thirst.

Understanding your cat's daily water needs and providing options like fresh, running water can prevent dehydration and support overall health.

What Should I Do if My Cat Is Drinking a Lot of Water?

Start by observing and recording your cat's behavior:

Measure Water Intake

Fill your cat's bowl to a specific level and check how much they drink in 24 hours. Do this for a few days to establish a baseline.

Check Their Diet

Ensure there hasn’t been a change in food that could account for increased thirst.

Monitor Symptoms

Look for additional signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in urination.

Encourage your cat to drink clean water by using a pet fountain. Running water attracts cats and helps maintain hydration. Cat Drinking Fountain provides filtered, fresh water continuously, more enticing for your pet.

Related Reading: Benefits of Pet Water Fountain

Common diseases and symptoms of cats

If you notice your cat drinking significantly more water than usual, it indicates an underlying issue. Some common diseases include:

Diabetes

This condition often causes increased thirst, excessive urination, weight loss, and lethargy.

Kidney Disease

Common in older cats, it leads to symptoms like weight loss, bad breath, and increased urination.

Hyperthyroidism

This overactive thyroid condition causes excessive hunger, thirst, and weight loss.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Cats with UTIs may drink more water to flush the infection out.

Liver Disease

Symptoms include vomiting, weight loss, and frequent drooling.

If your cat’s increased water intake persists, it’s important to investigate further and consult a veterinarian.

Treating Excessive Water Drinking in Cats

The treatment for excessive thirst depends on the cause:

Kidney Disease

While not curable, kidney disease can be managed with a combination of a low-protein diet, hydration therapy, and medications. Encouraging water intake is vital, and using a pet water fountain can make hydration easier.

Diabetes

Cats with diabetes require insulin therapy and changes to their diet. Weight management also plays a critical role in controlling this condition.

Hyperthyroidism

This condition can be treated with medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery. Your vet will help determine the best option for your cat.

UTIs

Treatment includes antibiotics to clear the infection and, in some cases, dietary adjustments to prevent recurrence. Providing access to clean, running water can help flush the urinary system.

Liver Disease

Liver issues require a tailored treatment plan, which may include medications, dietary changes, and supportive care.

Early diagnosis and treatment improve the chances of successfully managing these conditions. Keeping your cat hydrated with fresh water, like that from the Oneisall Pet Drinking Fountain, can support its health during and after treatment.

Conclusion

Ensure your cat drinks the right amount of water daily for its overall health and well-being. Factors like diet, environment, activity, and health conditions influence its hydration needs. 

Using tools like Cat Water Fountain can encourage hydration by providing clean, appealing, running water. Always monitor changes in your cat's behavior and consult a veterinarian if you notice excessive thirst or symptoms of illness.

FAQs

1. Can a Cat Water Fountain Encourage My Cat to Drink More?

Yes, cats are often attracted to running water. A cat water fountain can encourage increased hydration, which is beneficial for their overall health.

2. Is the Oneisall Cat Water Fountain Suitable for Multiple Cats?

Yes, with a capacity of 2 liters, the Oneisall Cat Water Fountain can accommodate the hydration needs of multiple cats, ensuring they all have access to fresh water.

3. What Are The Signs Of Dehydration In Cats? 

Signs include dry mouth and gums, lethargy, loss of appetite, sunken eyes, and in some cases, panting. If these symptoms appear, increasing water intake and consulting a vet are recommended.

4. Is It Safe To Add Flavors To My Cat’s Water?

Yes, you can occasionally add flavors like tuna juice or chicken broth (ensure it's low-sodium) to make the water more enticing, but always ensure these additions are safe for cats and use sparingly to avoid any health issues.