Some people mistakenly think that cats can go for long periods without water. The reality is that they are like most other mammals and need to drink regularly. If they don’t hydrate they can suffer severe health issues.
It’s crucial to give your cat access to clean water. Meanwhile, recognize the signs of dehydration and understand why your kitty might suddenly stop drinking. Every cat owner should be aware of these essential facts. Let’s look at them now.
How Long Can a Cat Go Without Drinking Water?
Some people mistakenly believe that cats can survive for long periods without water. They know that felines evolved in the Middle East where the climate is arid. The reality is that a cat can only survive for two to three days without water. This will fluctuate slightly depending on their surrounding environment and whether they’ve access to moist food. If the temperature is very hot, it will be a shorter period. Cats are like most other mammals, including humans, and require regular hydration.
Their lighter bodies indeed need less water than dogs but this doesn’t mean that they can live without it. They can also handle mild dehydration without suffering too many side effects. Nonetheless, this isn’t something that many cats want to experience regularly! Another issue is that cat kibbles are often very dry. This makes it even more important for them to have access to water.
Why Isn’t My Cat Drinking Water?
Some cat owners may wonder why their kitty isn’t drinking water. It can be worrying if they suddenly stop because they might have a health problem. However, cats can also be extremely pedantic about different things in their lives so it might not be a big issue. It’s vital to regularly change your cat’s water. They may turn their nose up at water that’s been sitting around for too long. Remember to freshen up their bowl so that it will tempt them to drink more frequently. Meanwhile, if they’re eating wet food they won’t need to drink so often.
Lifestyle is a big issue. If your cat has regular outdoor access they may be drinking from puddles, ponds, and other water sources. Maybe they’re displaying regular energy with no signs of any health issues. This is more common than most people think and nothing to worry about. Housebound cats have different requirements.
Should I Give My Cat Milk?
There’s also a common misconception that milk is better for cats than water. This isn’t true because many cats are lactose intolerant, and it can trigger health problems. Good old-fashioned H20 is the best option for your feline friend.
Another issue with milk is that it usually has a high-fat content. This isn’t advisable for many housebound cats that don’t get much exercise. That’s because they may rapidly gain weight. It may come from a place of love, but milk isn’t a great choice for kitties. Don’t use alternative plant milk either because these can cause more issues.
Water-Related Health Conditions
There may be a more sinister reason why your cat isn’t drinking water. Your kitty may have health problems that make it uncomfortable to drink. Bring your feline friend to a veterinary clinic if they display any warning signs. It’s essential to be aware of your cat’s habits and regular behavior. The following conditions may cause your cat to drink less water.
- Diarrhea
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Dental problems
- Constipation
- Cancer
- Diabetes
Signs of Dehydration
One clear sign of cat dehydration is if it starts panting regularly. We know that dogs do this regularly because they’re regulating their temperature. However, this isn’t normal behavior for felines, and you should take your cat to a trusted vet.
Cats can also suffer fevers like humans. If their temperature stays above 103.5°F for a prolonged period, it’s a sign that something is seriously wrong. Dry and tight skin is another clear sign of dehydration as well as constipation. Their energy levels will also decrease. Some cats are more active while others are more sedentary. It’s important to be aware of your pet’s behavior. For example, if your cat starts throwing up, it could be very concerning.
Encouraging A Healthy Cat to Drink Water
There are several easy steps to encourage a healthy cat to drink. Try moving their bowl to a different location. Many kitties don’t want to drink from a dish that’s too close to their litter dry. Another solution could be to give them a bowl that provides running water. These are more expensive but it’s a good investment if it works!
Cats are also extremely clean animals. Remember to wash their bowls if they’re sticky or attract ants. The cat may not want to touch it and turn its nose away. Remember, a cat should generally drink up to one cup of water or 60ml per kilogram per day. They may need slightly less if they’re older and sleep all day.
Veterinary Attention
If you’ve any worries about your pet’s health, it’s advisable to seek veterinary attention. When cats don’t appear to drink normally for between 48 and 72 hours it’s a sign that something is wrong. Always observe your pet’s behavior so you can react promptly.
This is especially important if they’re more lethargic than usual and don’t urinate or defecate regularly. They may urgently need to replace lost electrolytes. It’s better to be safe than sorry and a vet can put your mind at ease. Don’t ignore the problem and hope that it disappears by itself.
