9 Simple Ways to Increase Your Cat’s Water-Intake
In general, the average 9-11 lb cat requires approximately 1 cup of water per day (1). Cats naturally have a low thirst-drive compared to humans and their canine companions. There is thought that this is related to their wildcat desert ancestors who predominantly rely on live prey to achieve their hydration. The modern-day average indoor house cat, especially those eating predominantly dry food, may not be compensating their daily hydration needs. This is especially relevant given that cats are prone to many diseases that can exacerbate water loss including chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Cats are also prone to many urinary tract diseases including kidney and bladder stones and bladder wall inflammation (feline idiopathic cystitis). Hydration plays a key role in helping keep kitties healthy in the long-run to ensure less concentrated urine. Therefore, supporting hydration is one area that cat owners can be proactive in to help support their overall well-being.
1. Feed More Wet Food
One of the easiest ways to improve hydration is by feeding wet food.
Wet food typically contains 70–80% moisture, which closely mimics the natural moisture content of prey animals. In some cases, a wet-food diet can meet nearly all of a cat’s fluid requirements.
Cats eating mostly dry food tend to consume less total water overall because they often do not fully compensate by drinking more.
Easy Ways to Start
- Add one wet meal daily
- Mix wet and dry food together
- Slowly transition picky cats over several weeks
- Slightly warm wet food to improve aroma
2. Add Water to Meals
Many cats willingly consume extra water when it is mixed into food.
Turning meals into a “soup” or gravy consistency can substantially increase daily fluid intake with very little effort.
You can add:
- Warm water
- Low-sodium broth without onion or garlic
- Small amounts of tuna water occasionally
This strategy is commonly recommended for cats prone to urinary issues or constipation.
3. Place Water Bowls Away From Food
Interestingly, many cats prefer drinking water that is located away from their food bowl.
A large survey discussed by the Royal Canin Academy found that cats often preferred water stations located in a different room from where they eat. Researchers suggested this may reflect natural feline behavior, since food and water sources are rarely located together in the wild.
Try:
- Moving water bowls to quiet areas
- Offering bowls in multiple rooms
- Keeping water away from litter boxes and feeding areas
4. Offer Multiple Water Sources
Cats can be surprisingly particular about drinking habits.
The Royal Canin survey found many cats used several different water sources throughout the day, including bowls, fountains, flowerpots, puddles, and even drinking glasses.
Providing multiple options may encourage curiosity and more frequent drinking.
Ideas include:
- Ceramic bowls
- Stainless steel bowls
- Water fountains
- Wide shallow dishes
- Elevated bowls for senior cats
5. Try a Fountain — But Know Every Cat Is Different
Many owners assume all cats prefer running water, but the research is mixed.
The Royal Canin article noted that while fountains are popular, cats in households with both bowls and fountains often still preferred bowls.
The important takeaway is:
Cats are individuals.
Some cats love fountains, while others prefer still water. Offering both can help you discover your cat’s preference.
If you use a water fountain, please ensure it is cleaned regularly as they can harbor harmful bacteria and other microorganisms if not maintained.
6. Use Smaller, Wide Bowls
The same survey found cats often preferred smaller diameter bowls over large bowls. Researchers suggested whisker sensitivity may play a role.
Wide, shallow bowls can help avoid “whisker fatigue” and may encourage more comfortable drinking.
7. Keep Water Fresh
Cats are very sensitive to smell and taste.
To encourage drinking:
- Refresh water daily
- Wash bowls frequently
- Avoid placing bowls near strong odors
- Use filtered water if tap water smells heavily chlorinated
The Royal Canin article notes that most cats readily accepted fresh tap water when quality was good.
8. Make Drinking Fun
Some cats enjoy interacting with water.
Research observations found that nearly half of cats in the survey played with water while drinking.
You can encourage curiosity with:
- Floating ice cubes
- Pet-safe flavored ice treats
- Dripping faucets occasionally
- Interactive fountains
9. Consider Hydration Supplements
A 2025 study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery evaluated nutrient-enriched water supplements for dehydrated cats and found participating cats voluntarily consumed them and showed improvements in hydration-related measurements and quality-of-life scores.
These products may be useful for:
- Senior cats
- Cats with kidney disease
- Cats recovering from illness
- Cats with chronic urinary concerns
Always discuss supplements with your veterinarian first to make sure it’s the right fit for your cat.
Signs Your Cat May Be Dehydrated
Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
- Lethargy
- Dry or tacky gums
- Constipation
- Reduced appetite
- Sunken eyes
- Reduced or increased urination
- Straining in the litter box
The Bottom Line
Cats are naturally designed to conserve water, which means many do not drink enough on their own. Fortunately, small environmental and dietary changes can make a major difference.
The best hydration strategies for most cats include:
- Feeding more wet food
- Adding water to meals
- Offering multiple water stations
- Separating water from food bowls
- Experimenting with fountains and bowl styles
Because every cat has unique preferences, the key is offering variety and observing what your cat naturally enjoys.
References
- Royal Canin Academy. The Water Requirements and Drinking Habits of Cats. Accessed May 2026. https://academy.royalcanin.com/en/veterinary/the-water-requirements-and-drinking-habits-of-cats
- Peralta M, Nichelason A, Trepanier L. Voluntary acceptance of nutrient-enriched water supplement and promotion of water intake in clinically dehydrated cats. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12089729/