Water is essential for the survival of every living creature. Without food, most animals can survive for one to three weeks, but without fluids, they can survive for only a few days. A cat drinks naturally little, but how much fluid does she need to stay healthy?
The water requirement depends on the body weight, the ambient temperature, the activity, the state of health and the type of feeding. The body consists of about 70% water. Even a loss of about 15% can be life threatening. The water requirement increases, for example, due to heat, diarrhea, fever or bleeding.
Function of water in the body
– Component of the blood, which supplies the body with oxygen and nutrients. Toxins are transported via the bloodstream to the kidneys and excreted.
– Blood consistency: Loss of water causes the blood to become thicker.
– Body temperature regulation: Water is released through sweat, saliva and breath and cools the body.
– Some vitamins, minerals, sugar molecules and nutrients can only be used by the body through water, as it is involved in the cleavage of these substances, enabling them to be processed further.
– Major component of cells and tissues.
– Regulates cardiovascular system.
– Regulates digestion.
– Milk production in lactating females.
– For saliva production.
– Water is evaporated during respiration, this must be replenished.
Consequences of water deficiency
– Dehydration
– Low blood pressure
– Lack of concentration
– Faster aging process
– Toxins can no longer be flushed out
– Organ failure
How much water should the cat drink per day?
As ancient desert animals, cats can cope with quite little liquid. Especially if they are fed with prey animals or wet food, they are well supplied with liquid. A cat needs about 10-50ml per kg of body weight.
When fed dry food, a cat would have to drink much more to cover their water needs. Since they usually do not do this sufficiently, they are quickly undersupplied and get, for example, kidney problems.
Enter the drinking amount in your pet’s profile to be able to detect changes and thus act in time.
How served?
– In what? Some cats prefer to drink from glasses, others from a bowl. The material of the bowl can also play a role. Ceramic is usually preferred, as metal or plastic, for example, often have a taste of their own. Make sure that the bowl stands firmly on the ground and does not slip. Furthermore, the vessels should be filled so that the whiskers do not touch the edge when drinking. Because many cats find this unpleasant. Some prefer running water, for this drinking fountains or the tap are suitable.
– Already thought about a cat aquarium? Set up an aquarium (no fish, please!) with non-toxic plants. Such “living” water with algae and microorganisms attracts many a cat.
– Place? Especially cats instinctively don’t want their water near the food, because the water could be contaminated by e.g. blood. You should also choose a place where they can drink undisturbed. You can also place several drinking places (different vessels and places). A bright, quiet and easily accessible place usually goes down best.
– Quality: In some households, the quality of the water is reduced by, for example, lime or chlorine. It happens that your pet does not like to drink this water. The chlorine smell usually dissipates after about 2 hours. If in doubt, have the quality tested. Always provide fresh water.
– Temperature: The water should be at room temperature.
Animate your cat to drink
– Wet food! Especially if your darling is not a big drinker do not feed him dry food. Wet food naturally contains about 70-80% liquid. Dry food, on the other hand, contains only about 7-10%.
– Natural flavors make the water more palatable right away. A little meat broth, a small sip of tuna water or your favorite flavor mixed into the water is often happily accepted. Please no milk! Especially cow’s milk is badly tolerated by our lactose intolerant animals (cat’s milk is not suitable either, as it usually contains sugar and other additives). Experiment which taste your pet likes best. Important: A bowl of pure water must always be available.
– Ball bath. While playing and splashing in the water, your pet likes to take a sip in between. Put balls (big enough not to be swallowed) in the bowl. Attention danger of splashing. It is best to put a towel underneath.
– You can also dilute the cat food a little with water.
Why is my cat suddenly drinking a lot?
This can have harmless causes, such as:
– Hot weather
– A lot of activity
– Dry food, salty treats, etc.
– Taking medication (e.g. cortisone)
If the increased water intake is only short-term or can be attributed to a cause, there is no need to worry for now.
If your cat drinks more in the long term and you don’t know why, this may indicate illness.
– Kidney diseases
– diabetes
– Hyperthyroidism
– Urinary tract infections or diarrhea
In this case, please see a veterinarian to clarify the health and help your darling in time.
Summary
Water is the basis of life and is needed in varying amounts depending on certain factors. Always provide your cat with enough and pay attention to the individual preferences. Although a cat drinks little, she needs enough liquid.