How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water This Summer (A Must-Read for Pet Parents in India)
Indian summers are no joke. With temperatures often soaring above 35–45°C in many cities, staying hydrated isn’t just important for us—it’s essential for our cats too. Unlike dogs, cats don’t naturally drink a lot of water, which makes them more prone to dehydration, especially in hot weather. As a pet parent, helping your feline stay hydrated can prevent serious health issues like urinary infections and kidney problems.
Here’s a friendly, practical guide to help your cat drink more water this summer.
Why do cats stop drinking water?
Cats are naturally cautious about where they drink from. This behavior comes from their African wildcat ancestors. In the wild, they avoided drinking water near their food or toilet areas to prevent contamination.
If you’ve placed your cat’s water bowl next to their food or litter box, they may simply be refusing to drink because it doesn’t feel safe to them.
Cats are also picky about their bowls. They often prefer wide, shallow bowls made of ceramic or glass. Plastic bowls, especially in the heat, can affect the taste of water—something your cat will definitely notice!
1. Refill their water bowl daily
Imagine drinking water that’s been sitting out all day in the heat—not appealing, right? Your cat feels the same.
Always provide fresh, clean water at least once a day (twice is even better during peak summer). This simple habit can make a big difference in how much your cat drinks.
2. Place bowls throughout the house
Cats like options. Instead of one water bowl, place multiple bowls around your home.
This ensures your cat always has easy access to water, no matter where they are lounging. It also encourages them to drink more frequently.
3. Try a different water bowl
Your cat might be rejecting the bowl itself.
- Choose ceramic or glass over plastic or metal
- Use wide, shallow bowls
- Make sure their whiskers don’t touch the sides
Cats like to feel safe while drinking, so position the bowl where they can see their surroundings clearly.
4. Try a water fountain
Many cats are attracted to moving water. That’s why they often try to drink from taps!
A pet water fountain can make hydration more exciting and appealing. The constant flow keeps the water fresh and encourages your cat to drink more.
5. Keep water and litter trays separate
Cats don’t like drinking near where they use the bathroom—and honestly, who would?
Keep their water bowls in a completely different area (preferably a different room) from their litter tray to make them more comfortable.
6. Separate the food bowl too
Just like with litter trays, cats prefer not to drink near their food.
This instinct comes from avoiding contamination in the wild. Try placing food and water bowls in separate spots to encourage better drinking habits.
7. Switch to wet food
Wet food contains about 70–80% water, making it a great way to boost hydration.
If your cat mainly eats dry kibble, consider gradually introducing wet food into their diet—especially during summer. Just remember to transition slowly to avoid stomach upset.
8. Add some flavour
Sometimes, a little extra taste can do wonders.
Try adding a few drops of tuna water (not oil) or low-salt chicken broth to their water. This can make it more enticing—but keep it minimal and healthy.
Keeping your cat hydrated during India’s intense summer is one of the simplest yet most important things you can do as a pet parent. Small changes—like fresh water, better bowl placement, or switching to wet food—can go a long way in keeping your furry friend healthy and happy.
After all, a hydrated cat is a happy cat.