Short answer: Most cats need about 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight a day, and moisture from food counts toward it. To help your cat drink more, feed wet food or add water to meals, keep clean bowls in several quiet spots away from the litter box, fill them to the brim, and try a fountain.
Many cats don’t drink much on their own. VCA Animal Hospitals explains that domestic cats descend from desert cats whose water needs were met by the prey they ate, while many of today’s cats eat mostly dry kibble, which is low in moisture. The good news is that small changes can make a real difference.
How much water does a cat need?
The Cornell Feline Health Center’s guideline is about 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of lean body weight per day, roughly one cup for a 10-pound cat. Food counts toward that total: wet food can be up to 80% water, so cats on wet food may drink less from the bowl. Needs vary with weight, activity, temperature and health, so ask your vet what’s right for your cat.
9 ways to get your cat to drink more water
1. Feed wet food, or moisten dry food
Wet food adds a lot of water to your cat’s day. VCA suggests adding small amounts of water to kibble and increasing it gradually. If your cat refuses moistened food, go back to their usual food: never let a cat go without eating.
2. Add a little flavor
Cornell suggests flavoring water with a little tuna water or low-sodium chicken broth; VCA suggests about a teaspoon of low-sodium broth with no added spices. If your cat is on a prescription diet, check with your vet first.
3. Set up several water stations
More bowls in more places make water easier to find. The AAFP recommends multiple water stations for older cats, and Cornell warns that in multi-pet homes one animal can block another from the water bowl.
4. Choose quiet spots away from the litter box
VCA recommends putting water somewhere quiet, such as near your cat’s bed, and away from the litter box.
5. Keep bowls clean and water fresh
Cats can be fussy about the smell and taste of water. VCA recommends washing bowls daily and changing the water often.
6. Fill bowls to the brim, or go wide and shallow
Some cats dislike their whiskers touching the sides of the bowl, VCA notes. The AAFP suggests wide, low-sided bowls for senior cats.
7. Try glass, metal or ceramic
VCA says cats generally prefer glass, metal or ceramic bowls over plastic. Offering a couple of options lets your cat choose.
8. Try a water fountain
Some cats drink more from fountains, according to Cornell, though preferences vary. If you try one, clean the filter as the maker recommends; VCA suggests weekly.
9. Experiment with temperature
Some cats prefer cold water from the tap, while others like it at room temperature, VCA says. Try both and watch which bowl empties faster.
Products that fit
If you’d like to try a fountain or wider bowls from the tips above, these are well-reviewed options:
PETLIBRO Dockstream 2 Cat Water Fountain
Fountain with a stainless steel tray. Clean the filter as the maker recommends.
See on Amazon →Veken Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain
Stainless steel fountain with a large 108 oz capacity.
See on Amazon →Wide, Shallow Ceramic Cat Bowls
Wide, shallow ceramic dishes for food or water, so whiskers don’t touch the sides.
See on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices change often, so we don’t list them.
When is drinking a lot a warning sign?
Helping a cat drink more is good. A cat that suddenly drinks much more on its own is different: increased thirst and urination can be a sign of health problems such as chronic kidney disease or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), both of which the Cornell Feline Health Center describes as common in older cats. If you notice a change, call your vet. Read more in our guide to the senior cat years.
We’re not vets. If your cat has a health condition, ask your veterinarian before changing their food or adding anything to their water.
Frequently asked questions
Do cats need water if they eat wet food?
Yes. Wet food can be up to 80% water, so cats eating it may drink less, but they should always have fresh water available.
Are water fountains better for cats?
For some cats. Cornell notes that some cats drink more from fountains, but preferences vary. If your cat ignores the fountain, keep regular bowls out too.
Why won’t my cat drink from their bowl?
Common reasons include the bowl being too close to food or the litter box, water that isn’t fresh, a bowl that touches their whiskers, or a material they dislike. Try a few of the tips above, and see your vet if your cat seems to drink very little.
For more everyday care basics, visit our Cat Care section.
