How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water: Small Changes That Help

October 27, 2026

To encourage your cat to drink more water, offer fresh water in quiet, accessible places, try different bowls, and keep drinking water separate from food and litter. Wet food also contributes moisture. A sudden change in drinking habits deserves veterinary advice.

As Canadian households settle into autumn routines, it is a good time to check your cat's everyday setup. Start with what you already have—small changes may be enough.

1. Give water its own space

A matching feeding station looks tidy, but some cats prefer drinking away from their meals. Place water in a quiet spot, away from the litter tray, with room to approach comfortably.

In a multi-level home, offer water on each floor your cat uses. Separate drinking spots also give cats more choice in a shared household. [1]

2. Let your cat choose the bowl

Try a wide, shallow bowl. Some cats prefer glass or ceramic, but individual preferences vary. Keep the familiar bowl available while testing another option. [1]

Change one thing at a time. This makes it easier to notice whether your cat prefers a different bowl or a different location.

For the separate feeding area, compare the Bow-Shaped Cat Food Bowl and Elevated Pet Food Bowl with Stand. Check dimensions and height against your cat's usual eating posture.

3. Refresh water as part of breakfast

Wash and thoroughly rinse drinking bowls daily, and replace the water frequently. Some cats prefer cooler water; others favour room temperature. [2]

Make it easy to remember: when you prepare your breakfast, check your cat's water for hair, crumbs or spills. Simply topping up an old bowl leaves yesterday's residue behind.

4. Remember that food provides moisture

Cats eating wet food may drink less from a bowl. Ask your veterinarian whether wet food or a little added water suits your cat, particularly if they eat a prescribed diet.

If moistened food is rejected, offer their usual food rather than letting them go without eating. [2]

The Silicone Cat Lick Mat with Suction Cups can hold a small portion of suitable soft cat food. Use part of the normal daily allowance, supervise the session and clean afterwards. Remove the mat if chewed or damaged.

5. Consider a fountain if your cat enjoys running water

Some cats enjoy fountains; others prefer bowls. A fountain needs regular cleaning and filter maintenance. Keep a separate water bowl available, too. [2]

Before buying, check how easily it comes apart and whether replacement filters are available. Choose a setup you can maintain comfortably.

When should you call your veterinarian?

Changes in thirst, appetite, energy or litter-box habits need attention. Drinking much more than usual can also signal a problem.

Straining to urinate or producing little or no urine requires immediate veterinary attention. Do not wait for a new drinking routine to help. Inability to urinate is an emergency. [3]

Frequently asked questions

Why do I rarely see my cat drink?

Your cat may drink when you are not watching, and wet food supplies moisture. Discuss changes from their normal habits with your veterinarian.

Should water sit beside food?

Try a separate spot, away from the litter tray. International Cat Care recommends keeping food and water apart. [1]

Can I give milk instead of water?

Keep fresh water as the everyday drink. International Cat Care advises against using milk or salty liquids to encourage drinking. [1]

How much water does my cat need?

Needs vary with size, diet, activity and health. Water in food counts towards total intake, so the amount disappearing from a bowl does not tell the whole story. Ask your veterinarian for an individual target. [2]

Start with one small change today: refresh the water and offer a second quiet drinking spot. If your feeding setup needs updating, explore the Country of Pets accessories linked above.