Cats are descended from desert-adapted animals and often have a low thirst drive. Many don't drink enough water on their own, which can contribute to dehydration, urinary crystals, and kidney stress. Encouraging your cat to take in more moisture is one of the best things you can do for their long-term health.
Here are 5 creative, practical ways to get your cat to drink more water—without forcing or stressing them.
1. Use a Cat Water Fountain
Many cats are attracted to moving water. They may ignore a still bowl but drink from a dripping tap or a fountain. Running water can also taste fresher to them and feel more "natural."
What to do:
- Get a cat water fountain (electric or battery) with a gentle stream or bubbling flow.
- Place it away from their food bowl (cats often prefer water separate from food).
- Keep it clean: change filters and water regularly so it doesn't get slimy or dusty.
A fountain alone can significantly increase how much some cats drink.
2. Feed Wet Food (Or Add Water to Food)
Wet food is typically about 70–85% water (canned/pouched formulas), so it's an easy way to boost moisture intake without your cat having to drink from a bowl. Even switching one meal to wet, or adding a wet topper to kibble, helps.
What to do:
- Include canned or pouched wet food in your cat's daily meal plan.
- Add water to wet food: Mix in a tablespoon or two of water to make a gravy; many cats lap it up.
- Add water to kibble: For cats who eat dry food, add a small amount of water and let it soak briefly (don't leave soaked kibble out too long in warm weather).
Remember to stay within your cat's daily calorie target when you add or change food.
3. Place Water in Several Locations
Cats are more likely to drink when water is convenient and feels safe. A single bowl in a busy or noisy spot may be ignored.
What to do:
- Put multiple water bowls in quiet, accessible places: near favorite resting spots, in different rooms, and away from litter boxes and food.
- Use wide, shallow bowls so whiskers don't touch the sides (some cats dislike deep, narrow bowls).
- Glass or ceramic bowls often smell and taste neutral; some cats prefer them to plastic.
More options mean more chances for your cat to take a drink during the day.
4. Make Water More Interesting (Safely)
A hint of flavor or novelty can encourage drinking—as long as it's safe.
What to do:
- Ice cube: Drop a small ice cube in the bowl; some cats like to play and lick the cold water.
- Water from canned tuna or chicken: Add a tiny amount of the liquid from unsalted canned tuna (in water) or plain cooked chicken to their water bowl. Don't do this every day or in large amounts; use it as an occasional enticement.
- Fresh water daily: Change water at least once a day so it's cool and clean. Stale water is less appealing.
Avoid anything salty, sweet, or containing onions/garlic; when in doubt, stick to plain water or a tiny bit of tuna/chicken juice.
5. Try Different Bowl Types and Temperatures
Cats can be picky about bowl shape, material, and water temperature.
What to do:
- Wide and shallow: Reduces whisker stress and makes lapping easier.
- Material: Try ceramic, glass, or stainless steel if your cat avoids plastic.
- Temperature: Some cats prefer room-temperature water; others are curious about cold water (e.g., after adding an ice cube). Offer what your cat consistently drinks from.
Small changes can make a big difference for a fussy drinker.
Why This Matters: Hydration and Health
Cats who get enough moisture are less likely to:
- Become dehydrated (especially in heat or illness).
- Develop urinary crystals or stones.
- Strain their kidneys over time.
Combining wet food, a fountain, and well-placed bowls is often enough to noticeably increase intake. Monitor your cat's drinking habits and urine output; if you're worried they're still not drinking enough or they show signs of illness, see your vet.
The Bottom Line
To get your cat to drink more water:
- Use a cat water fountain for moving, fresh-tasting water.
- Feed wet food and/or add water to meals.
- Place multiple water bowls in quiet, accessible spots; use wide, shallow bowls.
- Make water appealing with fresh water daily and safe, occasional flavor (e.g., a drop of tuna juice).
- Try different bowl types and temperatures to suit your cat's preferences.
For a balanced diet that fits your cat's calorie needs while you focus on hydration, use our pet meal planner to get precise portions—then pair that with these simple tricks to keep your cat well hydrated.
