Even though movies or other media show the cats drinking bowl of milk, but it is not very good for many felines. Does cat drink water? Definitely, they do. Actually, water is very important to the cat’s survival like it is to the humans’. In spite of being good, lots of cats do not like drinking water, particularly if it is standing water.
Does Kitten Drink Water?
Even though kittens drink mother’s milk till she weans them at 4 weeks old, they need water. And after weaning, majority of the kittens lose an ability to digest the milk sugar efficiently, thus their main source of the hydration will be water.
Why Right Hydration is very Important for Cats
The hydration is physiological state of the balanced electrolytes, and specific minerals or fluids in your body, to maintain the balance is very important. The water affects everything right from the circulation to the digestion, thus it is quite evident why to keep the cat well hydrated is very important. Cats are very different as well as have their preferences. Thus, you might have to try some different ways of providing the water to find out something that your cat likes.
Different Signs of Cats Dehydration
Suppose your kitten neglects her bowl of water, she might get dehydrated. The signs of the dehydration in the cats will include:
- Lethargy or depression
- Dry mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Decrease in the skin elasticity
- Panting
Suppose you notice any signs, you need to call the veterinarian. They will give the cat fluids, and rule out any kind of potential illnesses or offer right guidance on preventing the dehydration in future.
How Can You Get the Cat to Drink Water?
Getting your pet to drink water will be tricky. You might need to experiment till you find out something that she likes. Begin with some below suggestions and see how the cat reacts.
Select the Good Water Bowl: Suppose your cat’s water bowl is narrow and deep, it will touch her whiskers that is a bit uncomfortable. Try to switch the cat’s water bowl with the wider and shallower dish with the smaller lip and see if she is able to drink more.
Place this in Right Location: Even though it is tempting to stick cat’s food or water bowls in out-of-way area, cats do not like getting boxed in the corner. They will prefer places where they will see the surroundings with quick glance and do not need to worry of anybody sneaking up behind.
Keep Fresh: Longer water sits more particles that it collects. Dirt, dust, hair will all collect in the cat’s water bowl, and making her very less inclined for drinking.