How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water

We all want our feline friends to feel their absolute best—and staying properly hydrated plays a big part in their health. But if you’ve ever noticed your cat’s water bowl collecting more dust than interest, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are simple ways to encourage your cat to drink more water and avoid common issues like urinary tract problems or dehydration.

At Petdirect, we understand cat quirks and hydration hurdles alike. That’s why we’ve rounded up some tail-twitching tips to help you keep your kitty well-watered and happy.

Why Hydration Matters For Cats

Cats are notoriously picky drinkers, and as desert-dwelling descendants, they have a naturally low thirst drive. But even though they may not lap up water like a Labrador, hydration is still essential for:

• Supporting kidney and urinary health
• Aiding digestion and nutrient absorption
• Maintaining energy levels and temperature regulation
• Preventing urinary crystals and infections

If your cat eats a dry food-only diet, they’re especially prone to dehydration. That’s where you, the devoted pet parent, come in—armed with these expert-approved strategies.

Offer Running Water With A Cat Fountain

Cats often prefer fresh, moving water. You might catch them drinking from the tap or bathtub—but there’s a more convenient (and hygienic) option:

Cat water fountains provide a continuous flow of filtered water, making it more enticing and fun for your cat to drink. Some fountains, like those from brands such as PETKIT or Catit, even come with smart features like water quality indicators and quiet operation—perfect for tech-savvy cats and pet parents alike. Explore our full Pet Hydration Collection to find one that suits your home.

Experiment With Different Bowls

The type, location, and cleanliness of your cat’s water bowl all make a difference. Try these tips:

• Use wide, shallow cat bowls to avoid whisker fatigue
• Use stainless steel, glass or ceramic instead of plastic to avoid odours
• Keep water bowls away from litter trays and feeding areas
• Place multiple water stations around your home

Also, be sure to clean your cat’s bowls daily to keep water tasting fresh—no one likes a stale drink!

Boost Hydration With Wet Food Or Broth

One easy way to up your cat's water intake is through their meals. Wet cat food typically contains around 75% moisture—much more than dry kibble.

Consider mixing in occasional broths or gravies with no added salt or onion. Just be sure to choose cat-safe options or find products specifically formulated for pets. Explore brands like Feline Natural and Royal Canin that offer high-moisture meal options your cat will l-o-v-e.

Make Water Time Playtime

Cats love play just as much as they love to ignore the rules. Make hydration more interesting by turning it into a game:

• Drop a ping pong ball in a wide water dish (under supervision) for batting fun
• Use ice cubes flavoured with low-sodium broth for a “cool” treat
• Try interactive cat toys that encourage movement and exploration near water bowls

Creating a fun and curious environment around their water source can help coax even the most reluctant drinker.

Watch For Signs Of Dehydration

If you're still concerned your cat isn't drinking enough, look for these sneaky signs:

• Sunken eyes
• Lethargy or less interest in play
• Dry gums or sticky saliva
• Decreased skin elasticity (gently pinch skin between the shoulder blades—does it stay tented?)

If you’re unsure or your cat is showing any of these symptoms, a visit to your vet is always the best next step.

Every Sip Makes A Difference

While cats can be a bit dramatic about their drinking preferences (no, that puddle outside isn’t more exciting...), helping them develop healthy hydration habits is one of the best things we can do for their long-term wellbeing.

At Petdirect, we’re all about making pet parenting easier, and healthier—for you and your whiskered mate. We Get Pet, and we know that every drop counts. So whether you're upgrading to a smart pet fountain or incorporating more wet food into their diet, you're giving your cat a big boost in health—one slurp at a time.

Want to make hydration a habit? Explore our Autodeliver service to keep your cat’s favourites coming—and don’t forget to check out our Pet Perks loyalty programme to earn rewards while looking after your feline friend.