Summer is a great time to pay a little extra attention to your cat's water intake. Cats naturally have a low thirst drive, so they don't always drink as much water as we'd like. The good news is, helping them get a little more moisture throughout the day doesn't take much.
Here are seven simple ways to sneak a little more water into your cat's day. (Shhh...don't tell them we told you.)
1. Set Up Multiple Water Stations Around the House
If your cat has one water bowl tucked away in the kitchen, try adding another somewhere they already spend a lot of time. Maybe it's by their favorite window, next to the couch, or in the bedroom. Sometimes making water a little more convenient for lazy kitties is all it takes.
The bowl itself matters too. Some cats prefer wide, shallow bowls that don't brush against their whiskers. It may take a little trial and error, but after a few days you'll probably start to notice which bowl gets the most attention.
Remember, fresh is best. Give water bowls a quick rinse and refill every day.
2. Try a Cat Water Fountain
Does your cat come running every time you turn on the bathroom sink?
Many cats are fascinated by moving water, which is why fountains have become so popular. The flowing water often seems fresher and more interesting, making some cats more likely to investigate.
If your cat isn't impressed with the first fountain you try, don't give up. Cats are known for having opinions about just about everything, including how their water is served!
3. Add Water to Wet Food
This might be the easiest trick on the list. Try mixing a teaspoon or two of water into your cat's wet food. If they happily clean the bowl, you can slowly add a little more over time. The extra water creates a light gravy that some cats even prefer.
It's a simple way to add more moisture without changing what's already on the menu.
4. Serve Broth or Bisque as a Snack
Some cats couldn't care less about plain water, but offer them something flavorful and suddenly they're interested. Cat bisque treats are an easy way to add a little extra hydration between meals.
Pantry Pours can be served on their own, poured over food, or chilled in the refrigerator for a refreshing snack. Your cat thinks they're getting spoiled, and you know they're getting a little extra moisture. Everybody wins!
5. Offer Lickable Treats Between Meals
Lickable cat treats are tasty, interactive, and packed with moisture. Puddy Pops make it easy to sneak a little extra hydration into your cat's day. As far as your cat is concerned, it's just another excuse for snack time.
6. Add Ice Cubes for a Summer Refresh
Many playful cats love batting around ice cubes. Dropping a cube or two into the bowl helps keep the water cool while giving curious cats something new to investigate. You can even freeze gravies & broths into ice cube trays for an easy enrichment activity.
7. Rotate Textures and Flavors
If you've ever had your cat suddenly decide their favorite food is no longer acceptable, you already know cats get bored with the same thing everyday.
Rotating patés, shredded recipes, minced recipes in gravy, and lickable cat treats keeps mealtime interesting while naturally adding more moisture throughout the week. Sometimes a little variety is all it takes.
Keeping Cats Hydrated All Summer Long
Helping your cat drink more water doesn't mean completely changing their routine. A few extra water bowls, a splash of water in their food, a bisque snack, or a lickable cat treat can all add a little more moisture to their diet.
Every cat is different, so try a few things to see what works. Maybe your cat falls in love with a fountain. Maybe chilled broth becomes their new favorite summer snack. Or maybe they decide ice cubes are the greatest toy you've ever brought home.
However your cat likes to stay hydrated, those small changes can add up and help keep them feeling their best all summer long.
