How Much Water Should Cats Drink Daily?

It is something that occurs to most cat owners at some point: Is my cat drinking enough water? Cats may seem to drink very little and owners might worry about their hydration. This article explains how much water cats should drink daily, the impact of diet on water intake, and signs to watch for if your cat drinks too much or too little.

The importance of fresh water for cats

Cats need constant access to fresh, clean water to stay healthy. Their water bowl should be emptied, cleaned, and refilled at least once daily; twice daily is preferable to ensure water remains fresh and appealing. Cats can be particular about their water source; some prefer running water from a tap or fountain, while others may be fussy about the bowl type or water hardness. Occasionally, cats may drink from unconventional places like the bathroom sink or even the toilet, which should be discouraged for safety.

How much water do cats need daily?

Water requirements vary with a cat's body weight, diet, activity level, and environmental factors such as temperature. Generally, a cat needs about 50-60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. For instance, a healthy 4 kg cat should drink around 200-240 ml of water daily. Larger cats or those more active may require more hydration. Likewise, cats in warm environments often drink more to compensate for fluid loss.

This water intake includes the moisture content found in their food. Cats eating mostly wet food consume a significant portion of their hydration from their meals, reducing the amount they drink from a bowl.

Water content in cat food: Wet vs dry diets

Wet foods such as tins or pouches usually contain 60-80% moisture, which provides a substantial part of a cat's daily water needs. Feeding a 100g portion of wet food can supply about 60-80 ml of water, enough to meet the hydration needs of approximately 1 kg of body weight. This diet is close to the natural moisture levels found in prey for wild cats, supporting healthy hydration.

Dry kibble, in contrast, contains only about 10% moisture by weight. Cats fed exclusively dry food must drink significantly more water to avoid dehydration. Unfortunately, many cats do not drink sufficient amounts to compensate, which may lead to long-term health issues such as urinary tract problems and kidney disease.

Is your cat drinking too much water?

While insufficient water intake is a concern, excessive drinking or increased interest in water may indicate health problems. Not all cats that enjoy playing with water are overdrinking; however, if your cat is drinking more than usual, accompanied by increased urination, lethargy, or changes in appetite, it is important to seek veterinary advice promptly.

Possible causes for excessive water intake (polydipsia) include diabetes mellitus, kidney or bladder disease, thyroid issues, and infections. Early veterinary assessment can identify underlying problems before they advance significantly.

Summary of daily water intake guidelines

Ensure your cat always has multiple sources of fresh water located away from food and litter trays, to encourage healthy drinking habits. Monitor any noticeable changes in water intake, as these may be early signs of illness requiring veterinary attention.

For more advice on cat care, hydration, and health, visit trusted pet care resources or consult your veterinary professional.