Water is essential for life. And our cats, just like us, need to drink water every day to stay healthy. So if you notice that your cat won’t drink water, it’s time to take action.
But did you know that a cat drinking a lot of water can be a sign of a health issue? Especially elderly cats can suffer from medical conditions that cause them to drink more water than usual. For that reason, it’s important to consult your vet if you notice that your cat drinks a lot of water. Read more about why your cat may be drinking too much water, and what you can do to help your feline friend.
Table of contents
- How much water should a cat drink?
- How to tell if your cat drinks a lot of water
- Why is my cat drinking so much water?
- Medical Issues that cause cats to drink more water
- Diabetes mellitus
- Urinary tract disease
- Chronic kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Does my cat have a problem?
- What should I do if my cat is drinking a lot?
How much water should a cat drink?
Due to their desert origins, cats’ bodies are adapted to live on relatively small amounts of water and therefore don’t drink large amounts water on a daily basis. But fresh water is still important to your furry friend’s health.
A cat weighing 10 pounds should drink between seven to nine ounces of water each day – that’s around one cup of water. Smaller cats consume less water, and larger cats drink a bit more.
Your cat’s activity level and the climate where you live can affect the amount of water that your cat drinks each day. A very active kitty who spends time outdoors patrolling their territory on a hot summer day might drink a bit more. A sedentary cat that relaxes all day in an air-conditioned home would drink less.
Does your cat eat dry food or wet food? The type of food your cat eats may also influence how much water they need each day. Cats that eat dry food will usually drink more water than cats that eat wet canned food. Cats who eat wet food get a portion of their daily water needs from their food.
