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Is your cat drinking enough to beat the heat this summer? As temperatures rise, keeping your kitty hydrated becomes more crucial than ever for their health and happiness. In this post, we’re diving into some smart and easy methods that cat owners use to keep their cats both cool and well-hydrated. From ingenious DIY solutions to small, everyday changes, we’ll share how you can help your cat enjoy the summer safely and comfortably. Ready to discover how to keep your cat hydrated? Let’s get started by understanding why proper hydration is essential for your cat’s health and how these tips can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
The Role of Water in Your Cat’s Body
Water isn't just a thirst quencher; it’s a vital part of your cat’s health. Did you know that keeping your cat well-hydrated helps regulate their body temperature and supports essential bodily functions like digestion and nutrient absorption? It’s true—the benefits of water go deep, affecting everything from skin health to organ function.
Hydration plays a critical role in helping your cat flush toxins from their kidneys and maintain a healthy urinary tract. When a cat doesn't drink enough, they can become dehydrated, leading to decreased organ function and potentially severe health complications. That’s why it’s crucial your kitty gets enough water, especially during the hot summer months when the risk of dehydration is higher.
How Much Water Does Your Cat Need?
You might wonder exactly how much water your cat needs each day. Well, it varies based on several factors including age, diet, activity level, and health status.
General Hydration Guidelines
Typically, a cat needs approximately about 4 ounces of water per five pounds of lean body weight per day. This means a 10-pound cat would typically require around one cup of water each day. However, these needs can vary significantly based on the type of food they eat. Cats on dry food (kibble) diets will need more water because dry food only contains about 10% water compared to wet or raw food, which can contain up to 80%. This is why cats on dry food often spend more time at their water bowls.
Special Considerations
- Kittens and Senior Cats: Younger and older cats may have different hydration needs. Kittens are often more active and may require more water to support their energy levels. Senior cats, on the other hand, might have reduced kidney efficiency and benefit from increased water intake to help prevent renal problems.
- Breed Differences: Certain breeds, such as those with longer fur or brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Persians, may also require more water. These cats can overheat more easily due to their physical traits and may need additional hydration to help regulate their body temperature.
- Health Conditions: [Cats with health issues such as kidney disease, urinary tract problems, or diabetes may need more water](https://bettervet.com/resources/pet-symptoms/excessive-thirst-in-cats#:~:text=Excessive thirst in cats%2C known,tract issues%2C and certain medications.) to support their system and assist in managing their condition. It's important to consult with your holistic veterinarian to determine the right amount of water intake for cats with health concerns.
Now that we’ve covered how vital water is and how much your cat needs, we'll dive into some innovative and fun ways cat owners are keeping their cats hydrated and cool during the summer.
Our Practical Tips to Stay Cool & Encourage Drinking
Here are some easy, basic strategies we recommend to start with. But don't worry, after this section, we've also gathered a host of unique and innovative ideas and recommendations from cat owners like you to keep things interesting and your cat hydrated.
Idea 1: Cat Popsicles
Old Way: You might be used to just leaving out a bowl of water for your cat, assuming they’ll drink when thirsty. However, during hot days, this might not be enough to keep them adequately hydrated.
New Way: Try making homemade popsicle treats using ingredients that cats love, like tuna or catnip. These treats can significantly increase their interest in hydration.
Benefits: These "catsicles" serve a dual purpose—they hydrate and provide a stimulating activity. Cats get to enjoy licking something cold and tasty, which can be particularly refreshing when it’s hot.
How to Make the Quick Swap:
- Prepare the Mixture: Blend tuna or catnip with enough water to create a pourable mixture. If you’re using tuna, ensure it’s unsalted and packed in water, not oil.
- Mold and Freeze: Pour the mixture into non-toxic silicone ice molds. You can find fun shapes that might further entice your kitty to lick and play.
- Freeze Until Solid: Place the molds in the freezer and let them set until solid, usually about three to four hours.
- Serve: Unmold a catsicle and offer it to your cat. Watch as they lick and nibble at the icy treat, getting hydrated in the process.
Product Recommendations: Invest in non-toxic silicone ice molds and organic catnip, which can be found at most pet supply stores or online. Here are a few options to consider:
- Cute Cat Face Silicone Mold - Amazon
- Cat Crack Organic Catnip - Amazon
- Yeowww! Catnip - Dr. Judy Morgan
No-Dairy Catsicle Pops
Ingredients
- One 5.5-ounce can of wet cat food
- Small cat treats or fresh catnip
- Saran wrap
- 15 8-ounce plastic cups
How to Make
- Mix all of the ingredients from the recipe in a medium-sized bowl. It should consist of mostly cat food, with the treats or catnip being more of a sprinkling. (The source suggests thinking of it as adding chocolate chips to cookie dough.)
- Spoon the mixture into each cup, filling approximately ¼ to ½ full.
- Stack the cups to help flatten the mixture.
- Cover the top cup with plastic wrap.
- Place the cups in the freezer overnight to set.
- When ready to serve, run warm water over the bottom cup to pull it free. Pop out the catsicle and let it sit in a bowl for about five minutes before serving it to your cat.
Goat’s Milk Catsicles
Photo credit: Rover
Ingredients
- One can of wet cat food
- An equal amount of goat’s milk (cats typically digest goat’s milk better than cow’s milk because it has less lactose. However, if your cat is lactose-intolerant, substitute it with coconut milk.)
- Your cat’s favorite small treats
- Ice cube trays
How to Make
- Empty the entire can of wet cat food into a bowl.
- Pour the goat’s milk into the empty can to ensure it’s the same amount, then mix it into the bowl of food.
- Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays. (Spray the trays with cooking spray to make removal easier.)
- Add one cat treat to each cube.
- Freeze until solid, roughly two to three hours.
- Remove the cubes from the tray and place them in a freezer-safe bag for storage.
- Serve occasionally to your cat when you want to earn serious pet parent points.
Idea 2: Cooling Mats
Old Way: Typically, cats find their own spots to cool down, often sprawled on tiles or tucked away in shaded corners. While this natural instinct is effective, you can enhance their experience, significantly.
New Way: Switch to a specially designed pet cooling mat. These mats use advanced cooling technology that works by absorbing the body heat of your cat and dissipating it into the environment. The mats often contain gel that is activated by pressure and cools upon contact or pure water, to effectively reduce your cat’s body temperature through their paw pads.
Benefits: A cooling mat not only keeps your cat cool but also helps prevent the risks associated with overheating. They are particularly beneficial for long-haired breeds or older cats who might struggle more with high temperatures.
How to Make the Quick Swap:
- Choose the Right Mat: Look for mats that are made from non-toxic, veterinarian-approved materials and contain no harmful chemicals or gels, only pure water. Lastly, try to find something that’s rip-proof and durable for those sharp claws!
- Strategic Placement: Place the cooling mat in your cat’s favorite lounging area or on their bed. If your cat is initially hesitant, you can encourage them to explore and lie on the mat by placing treats or their favorite toy on it.
- Maintain the Mat: Keep the mat clean and check regularly for any signs of wear and tear to ensure it remains safe and effective.
Product Recommendations:
Idea 3: Automatic Water Fountains
Old Way: Cats are often presented with static water bowls, which can be overlooked if not placed in an ideal location or if the water remains unchanged for too long, becoming stale.
Holistic Swap: Upgrade to a dynamic running water fountain designed specifically for pets. Look for models made of food-grade stainless steel which include an extensive filtration system to keep water fresh and clean. The best fountains are quiet, avoiding noises that could deter your kitty, and some are even motion-activated, only running when your cat approaches.
Benefits: The continuous movement of the water in fountains captivates cats' attention and encourages them to drink more frequently. Moving water is not only more appealing but also stays fresher than stagnant water in a bowl, which can host bacteria and deter cats from drinking.
How to Make the Quick Swap:
- Choose the Right Fountain: Opt for a fountain that is easy to assemble, maintain, and clean. Stainless steel or ceramic options are ideal for hygiene and longevity.
- Ideal Setup: Place the fountain in a quiet area where your cat likes to spend time. Avoid busy or noisy locations that could prevent them from using it.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent the build-up of slime and bacteria. Clean the fountain and change the filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Recommended to change the water out every few days and do a deep clean & filter change once every two weeks.
Product Recommendations:
Innovative Ideas and Advice From Cat Owners
The wait is over! We promised unique, ingenious hydration hacks, and here they are—directly from fellow cat owners who love their kitties just as much as you do. Here’s a collection of fun and creative strategies that have been tried and tested in homes just like yours. These tips go beyond the basics, offering you fresh ways to keep your cat hydrated and happy during the heat of summer.
- Just put a glass of water out anywhere and pretend it’s for you. My cats will drink anything I put down in all seriousness though, cats much prefer a bowl of water somewhere away from their food. My cats have several water bowls around the house and prefer the bowl in the upstairs bathroom and have drunk significantly more since giving them options. - Emma W.
- Goats milk, bone broth or when I cook chicken (plain with nothing in the water) I’ll give them the warm chicken water as “soup”.
- I try to offer small bowls near where popular sleeping areas are. Often cats will wake up and drink some fresh water if it's near where they are sleeping or walking. Much sure to clean the bowls at least once a day being sure to wipe it out so it's clean. I do mine morning and night. Fountains get completely changed at least weekly, mine get redone every few days. - Katrina S.
- We add 1/2 cup of water to wet food every day. Our kitty loves it and drinks it all, along with eating all the food. - Margo J.
- It helps to keep water far away from food and litter boxes… and make sure to have multiple water sources. - Sav A.
- Kitties are enticed to drink more when they have a flowing water source! In the case you don’t have a fountain, getting one will help! - Jaz R.
- I like to fill my cats bowl up half way and stick it in the freezer. Then when it’s frozen I’ll fill the rest up with water. My cat seems to like it and he will drink more or just lay beside the bowl because it’s cold. I like to call it iceburg water cause the frozen water floats to the top and bobs around, I also found it helps with feline enrichment cause he can paw at it and spin it. - Katie Rose L.
- Provide a clean dish and filtered water that is changed daily. I use ceramic raised bowls as my cats won’t drink out of anything else. Try getting a cat water fountain. - Stephanie S.
- It sounds too easy but all we did for our cat was move their bowl away from their food and suddenly they couldn’t have enough of it. We hid it in a corner far away from their food and they’re drinking all the time suddenly. - Casandra J.
- My cat prefers to drink out of human cups or a bowl on the bathroom counter, so I leave designated ones out for her. She did like the fountain but I didn't enjoy cleaning it.
- Just put a glass of water out anywhere and pretend it’s for you. My cats will drink anything I put down in all seriousness though, cats much prefer a bowl of water somewhere away from their food. My cats have several water bowls around the house and prefer the bowl in the upstairs bathroom and have drunk significantly more since giving them options. - Emma W.
- We started putting small water dishes in different locations that I see often...bathroom counter, a kitchen shelf , basement shelf . Since they follow me around go where I go, I'm cleaning and refilling the bowls more often and the cats are near fresh ,cool water more often.The one on the bathroom counter gets emptied daily! My boys are drinking so much more now . I also give verbal praise and pets anytime I see my boys drinking . I don't know if that encourages anything really, but it can't hurt. - Christine W.
- You can make popsicles for her! A quick search on Google will give you some really easy and tasty recipes. - Estefania S.
- Goats milk, bone broth, or when I cook chicken (plain with nothing in the water) I’ll give them the warm chicken water as “soup”. - Jorja N.
- I mix 1/3 cup filtered water in my cats wet food morning and night, I have 3 and they all clean the entire dish, just some extra peace of mind knowing they're getting extra water! They also have a fountain to encourage regular drinking. - Melissa O.
- Feed raw, canned wet or cooked diet . Use a meal completer with water added for balanced nutrition. No more kibble. Easy peasy. - Alex S.
- I make catnip tea and give it to mine. He loves it. Sometimes will make ice cubes with it and give it to him in hot days. Either in his water dish or on a plate for him to lick. - Ania S.
- Have fake fish in glass oven dish in bathtub so it’s a game and drinking opportunity. He can fish the fish out now and looks do proud in achieving this. - May L.
- Make sure you keep her water fresh, away from her food. Also be aware of any scents kitty might be breathing in near their water. - Catherine E.
- Move your cats from dry to wet food (or raw), which is the most effective method of increasing hydration. Cats don’t naturally drink much water, they get it from their their prey. So increasing wet food (and sometimes adding a little extra water to it) is your best bet. Fountains and such are great too, but only if they’re willing to use it. - Rachel S.
- Make sure their water bowl is whisker friendly! - Sheila M.
- Mix a can of tuna (in water) in 2 cups of water and let it sit in the fridge for 24 hours. Strain out the tuna and freeze the broth in an ice cube tray. Then you can give one cube daily for your kitty to play with and lick throughout the day.
- What I do is squirt some liquid puree like Churu (or a healthier version from Kitty Up) out in a bowl and on the edges of the bowl. Then I add some water! It forces my cat to drink the water to get to the puree at the bottom. Becomes a fun game too.
Wrap It Up
As we've seen throughout this post, keeping your cat hydrated and cool during the hot months is not just a necessity—it can also be fun! We've covered everything from the essential role of water in your cat's body to inventive and practical ways to keep your kitty cool and hydrated even when the temperatures soar. Remember, proper hydration is critical for your cat's health, impacting everything from organ function to overall mood and comfort.
Now it's your turn to put these ideas into action. Why not start with the simple ice treats or introduce a water fountain to pique your cat's interest in drinking more often? Experiment with these suggestions and observe which ones your cat responds to best. Each cat is unique, so finding the right combination that keeps your kitty hydrated and happy might require a bit of trial and error.
We’d love to hear how you get on! If you've tried any of these methods or come up with some innovative strategies of your own, don't keep them to yourself. Share your experiences and photos with us and help build a community of well-informed and proactive cat owners.
FAQs
Q: What signs indicate my cat is dehydrated or overheated?
A: Watch for signs like lethargy, dry mouth, sunken eyes, and a lack of elasticity in the skin. If overheated, your cat may pant excessively, drool, or become restless. Immediate steps should be taken to cool down your cat and provide hydration. A simple way to cool your cat is to damped a towel with cool water and press it to your kitties’ paw pads. Do NOT put the moist towel on your cat’s body…only the paw pads. If symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Q: How often should I change the water in my cat’s fountain?
A: To ensure freshness and encourage your cat to drink more, it's best to change the water in the fountain every one or two days. Regular cleaning of the fountain itself, including the filter and any other components, should be done according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically once every two weeks.
Q: How can I make my cat drink more water if it only eats dry food?
A: Encourage water intake by placing multiple water bowls (or cups) around your home, using water fountains to attract your cat with the movement and sound of flowing water. Consider adding water, homemade bone broth, or goat’s milk to your cat’s food, or introduce wet food into their diet. Wet food can contribute significantly to your cat’s daily water intake due to its high moisture content. If possible, try to see if your cat will slowly transition to a raw diet.
