How Much Water Does a Cat Need Daily and What to Do If They Drink Too Little?

A cat typically needs to drink around 60 milliliters of water per day. When calculated based on their food intake, the ideal water consumption should be about 2-3 times their food volume. If a cat doesn't drink enough water, it can lead to constipation and dehydration. To address this, owners can offer their cats wet food or mix in some goat milk powder to help boost their fluid intake.

It's often said that a person can survive for days without food but not without water. If the body doesn't receive enough water, it can lead to illness and even death, and this is equally true for cats. Neglecting a cat's hydration needs can easily lead to health problems and, in severe cases, prove fatal.

A cat’s daily water intake should ideally be around 6% of its body weight. This translates to approximately 60ml of water per kilogram of body weight daily. However, a cat’s activity level, body condition, and even the season can affect its water consumption. The amount of water a cat drinks can vary quite a bit, but ensuring they get enough water is vital for their well-being.

Based on food consumption, the ideal water intake should be 2-3 times the amount of food. When calculated by a cat's weight, they should drink approximately 30-40ml of water per kilogram. For example, a 5kg cat should drink about 150-200ml of water per day. Insufficient water intake can result in constipation and dehydration, highlighting the importance of providing cats with ample water daily.

What to Do If Your Cat Drinks Too Little Water

When a cat isn't drinking enough water, owners can offer goat milk powder, homemade meat broth, or wet food to encourage hydration through various means. You can also try using a cat water fountain since many cats are drawn to moving water due to their curious nature. Never allow your cat to develop a habit of not drinking enough water. Insufficient water intake can cause dehydration and increase the risk of urinary tract issues, including kidney stones. Monitoring and promoting good hydration habits are important for your cat's health.Bonus resource:Pet Knowledge