7 Tips for Keeping Kitty Hydrated

by Rita Reimers, Multi Cat Behavior Expert

Is your cat drinking enough water? Staying hydrated is as important for cats as it is for humans, but let’s face it—cats aren’t always enthusiastic drinkers. Getting your cat to drink more water is important to their health. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems, including urinary tract issues and kidney disease. So how can you encourage your feline friend to drink more water?

Here are practical, cat-approved tips to keep get your cat to drink more water.

1. Use a fountain to get your cat to drink more water

Cats love running water. In the wild, flowing water is a sign that it’s fresh and safe to drink. A cat water fountain mimics this natural preference by keeping the water circulating and oxygenated. Many cats are naturally drawn to fountains because:

• The movement catches their attention.
• The water tastes fresher than still water in a bowl.

Pro Tip: Choose a fountain with a quiet motor and easy-to-clean components. Stainless steel or ceramic fountains are best to avoid bacteria buildup.

2. Provide Multiple Water Stations 

Cats are creatures of habit, but they also love convenience. Place multiple water bowls around your home, especially in areas your cat frequents. Having more options can make drinking more appealing.

Pro Tips for Success:

• Avoid placing water near food or litter boxes—cats prefer their water to be separate.
• Use wide, shallow bowls to prevent whisker fatigue (when cats feel discomfort from their whiskers touching the sides).

3. Refresh the Water Daily

Cats have sensitive noses and picky tastes. Stale water can be a turnoff, so refresh their water bowls daily to keep it clean and appealing. Rinse bowls thoroughly to remove any residue or odor.

Pro Tip: Add a few ice cubes on hot days for a bit of fun and to keep the water cooler.

4. Experiment with Different Bowls

Believe it or not, the type of water bowl you use matters. Cats often dislike plastic bowls because they can retain odors or develop scratches that harbor bacteria. Instead, opt for:

• Ceramic
• Glass
• Stainless steel

Test different sizes and shapes to find your cat’s preference. Some cats like wide bowls, while others may prefer something more enclosed.

Check out this article: The 10 Best Cat Water Bowls

5. Add Water to both Wet and Dry Food

Wet food naturally contains more moisture than kibble, making it an excellent option for hydration. You can take it a step further by mixing in a small amount of water. This helps increase your cat’s water intake without them even realizing it!

Start with just a teaspoon of water and gradually increase to ensure your cat accepts the change.

6. Offer Flavored Water

Some cats may find plain water a little boring. Make it more enticing by offering flavored water options, such as:

• Water from canned tuna (in water, not oil)
• Low-sodium chicken or beef broth (ensure it’s free of onions and garlic)
• Bone Broths, like these from Made By Nacho, are also a good choice

Serve these flavored options sparingly to avoid extra calories or sodium, but they can be a great hydration booster.

7. Keep the Water Away From Food and Litter

Cats have an instinctual aversion to drinking water near their food or litter. In the wild, water sources could be contaminated by prey remains. To encourage drinking:

• Move water bowls to quiet, low-traffic areas.
• Keep bowls far from litter boxes and food dishes.

Why Hydration Is Important for Cats

Proper hydration supports your cat’s overall health and can prevent:

• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney disease
• Bladder stones
• Constipation

Watch for signs of dehydration, such as:

• Lethargy
• Sunken eyes
• Sticky gums
• Reduced skin elasticity (gently pinch their skin; if it doesn’t bounce back quickly, they may be dehydrated).

If you suspect dehydration, consult your veterinarian promptly.

The Bottom Line

There is no trick to getting your cat to drink more, and it doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a little creativity—and understanding your cat’s preferences—you can keep them happily hydrated and healthy. Whether it’s a flowing water fountain, a splash of tuna water, or simply fresh bowls in the right spots, your feline friend will thank you with better health and more purrs.

How did you get your cat to drink more water? Have a tip or trick that worked for your cat? Share it in the comments! Let’s help every kitty stay hydrated and happy.