How to Get My Cat to Drink More Water: Simple Tips That Work

Hydration plays a big role in keeping your cat healthy, from supporting kidney function to aiding digestion. But many cats just don’t seem interested in their water bowls. Whether you’re Googling “How to get a cat to drink more water” or wondering “How much water should a cat drink a day?”, we’ve got you covered.

This guide is simple, practical, and focused on helping your cat stay happily hydrated—especially if they eat mostly wet food or tend to ignore their bowl altogether.

How Much Water Should a Cat Drink a Day?

On average, cats need about 4 oz of water per 5 lbs of body weight each day¹. That means a 10 lb cat should drink about 1 cup of water daily. This number will vary depending on factors like the climate you live in, your cat’s age, and activity level.

But it’s not just about how much water they lap up—it’s also about where that water comes from. If your cat eats wet food, they may already be getting a lot of moisture in their meals. Wet food can contain up to 85% water, which can help to meet their daily hydration needs.

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Still, many cats don’t drink enough. And if your cat doesn’t drink water—but eats wet food—you might still wonder if they’re getting what they need.

Why Your Cat Might Not Be Drinking Water

Cats are notoriously picky. But there are a few common reasons they might be turning their nose up at their water bowl:

• They don’t like the bowl – Some cats don’t like the shape or size of their dish, or how it feels on their whiskers.

• The water isn’t fresh – Stale/old water can be unappealing.

• They prefer running water – Cats in the wild often prefer moving water. It feels more fresh—and safer.

• Their bowl is too close to their food or litter box – Cats can be particular about placement.

Now let’s look at what you can do to help.

How to Get a Cat to Drink More Water

If you’ve been searching “How can I get my cat to drink more water?”—try one or more of these tips:

1. Switch to a Cat Water Fountain

Running water mimics streams and rivers, which can be more appealing to cats than standing water. A fountain keeps the water moving, filtered, and feeling fresh—and many cats love it.

2. Add Water to Their Food

If your cat already eats wet food, you’re off to a good start. You can even add a little extra water to their wet food or kibble—some cats can be picky about change and new textures, so start with a teaspoon or two and see how they respond.

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3. Place Bowls in Multiple Spots

Offer water in different areas around your home. Some cats like to drink away from where they eat or sleep.

4. Try Different Bowls

Ceramic, stainless steel, wide, shallow—test a few styles. Some cats don’t like deeper, narrow bowls that press on their whiskers (called “whisker fatigue”).

5. Keep It Fresh

Refill water bowls at least once a day—and give them a good rinse. Cats are more likely to drink when the water smells and tastes clean.

6. Offer Ice Cubes or Ice Chips

Some cats are curious about ice and will lick it, which can add to their water intake. You can also drop an ice cube into their bowl to cool things down and make it more fun.

7. Use Flavored Water (Carefully)

In moderation, a bit of tuna juice (from water-packed tuna) or low-sodium chicken broth can be added to a water bowl to entice picky drinkers. Just be sure there are no onions, garlic, or artificial additives.

When to Talk to Your Vet

If your cat doesn’t drink water at all—or suddenly starts drinking way more than usual—it’s worth checking in with your vet. Dehydration and overhydration can both be signs of underlying health issues like kidney disease or diabetes.

Final Thoughts

Getting your cat to drink more water can take a little trial and error. But once you find what works, it’s a game changer for their long-term health. Whether they love their new fountain or just prefer their water bowl in a different spot, these small shifts can make a big difference.