Cats may be mysterious creatures, but one thing’s for sure—they’re not always great at drinking water. If you’ve ever watched your cat stare at their water bowl like it’s a trap, you know exactly what we mean. Yet hydration is essential for their health, especially for indoor cats who don’t get moisture from hunting or roaming outdoors.

So, how do we encourage our finicky little furballs to drink more? Let’s dive into some practical, vet-approved, and cat-approved hydration tips to keep your feline feeling their best.

Why Hydration Matters for Indoor Cats

Cats evolved as desert animals, which means they’re naturally not big drinkers. Their wild ancestors got most of their hydration from fresh prey—something your house cat definitely isn’t catching in the living room (unless you count toy mice).

When cats don’t drink enough water, it can lead to urinary tract issues, kidney problems, and dehydration. Indoor cats, who eat mainly dry kibble or stay in air-conditioned environments, are especially at risk.

The goal? Make water irresistible and easy to access.

1. Upgrade Their Bowl Situation

Let’s face it—cats are picky. The same way they’ll ignore an expensive cat bed for a cardboard box, they might ignore a bowl that doesn’t meet their “royal” standards.

Try these simple upgrades:

• Use wide, shallow bowls: Cats don’t like their whiskers touching the sides (it’s called whisker fatigue).

• Avoid plastic: It can retain odors and bacteria. Go for ceramic, stainless steel, or glass.

• Keep it clean: Would you drink day-old water? Neither would your cat. Rinse and refill daily.

• Add multiple water stations: Place bowls in different parts of your home. Cats like options!

Bonus tip: Some cats prefer running water. A cat water fountain can make hydration more exciting and help them drink more without you having to constantly refill the bowl.

2. Add More Moisture to Their Food

If your cat’s diet is mainly dry kibble, it might be time to mix things up—literally. Wet food naturally contains more moisture (up to 75%), which helps keep your cat hydrated effortlessly.

Here are a few ways to sneak in extra water:

• Switch to or mix in wet food a few times a week.

• Add a splash of water or broth to dry food. Use low-sodium chicken or bone broth—cats love the taste!

• Try freeze-dried food that you can rehydrate before serving. Many cats enjoy the texture and flavor boost.

At Pikapet, we stock a range of premium freeze-dried meals and toppers that can be easily moistened with water, giving your cat both nutrition and hydration in one go.

3. Keep It Fresh (and Fun)

Cats are all about freshness and novelty. You might notice they’ll drink from a dripping tap or a glass on your desk rather than their bowl—that’s their way of saying, “I prefer sparkling, not still.”

To make hydration fun and inviting:

• Change water at least once or twice a day.

• Place bowls away from food or litter trays—cats are particular about cleanliness.

• Try ice cubes in the bowl or in wet food during warmer months. Some cats love batting them around and licking the melting water.

• Experiment with locations: Some cats like drinking in quiet corners, while others prefer social spots like the living room.

4. Monitor Their Water Intake

Every cat is different, so it’s important to observe their habits.
You might not be able to measure every sip, but here are a few signs of good hydration:

• Their gums are moist, not sticky.

• They’re active and have normal energy levels.

• Their litter box output is regular (and not overly concentrated).

If you notice your cat drinking excessively or barely at all, it’s best to consult your vet—sudden changes can signal underlying issues.

A fun tip? Use a smart pet fountain or camera to track your cat’s drinking habits when you’re not home. Technology meets cat care—how very 2025!

5. Create a Hydration Routine

Cats thrive on routine, and hydration can become part of their daily rhythm.
Try these small but effective steps:

• Refill water bowls at the same time every day.

• Offer fresh wet food in the morning or evening.

• Keep their favorite bowl in a consistent spot.

By building a habit, your cat learns when to expect fresh water—turning hydration from an afterthought into a comforting daily ritual.

A Happy, Hydrated Cat Is a Healthy Cat

Keeping your indoor cat hydrated doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right mix of clean water, tasty food options, and a little creativity, you can make sure your cat stays healthy, happy, and full of energy (and sass).

Whether you’re adding a cat fountain, mixing in wet food, or simply refreshing their bowl twice a day, each small step makes a big difference.

💧 Check out more tips and premium treats at pikapet.com.au
At Pikapet, we believe every cat deserves the best—from nutrition to hydration. Explore our selection of freeze-dried cat food, treats, and feeding accessories designed to help your cat thrive, one sip (and lick) at a time.