Cats may gobble their food in seconds, but the water bowl often goes untouched.
And that can be a problem: staying properly hydrated is crucial for feline health.
Dry cat food contains very little water – around 7% to 10% – meaning cats need to drink extra to stay hydrated, explains the German Pet Supplies Industry Association.
A cat's daily water intake depends on its weight and level of activity. The general guideline is 50 to 60 millilitres per kilogram of body weight.
For example, a 4-kilogram cat needs about 200 to 240 millilitres of water per day, which is roughly equivalent to the volume of a small glass of juice.
Without enough fluid, cats can develop kidney problems or urinary tract diseases over time.
How to encourage your cat to drink more
Place multiple bowls of water around your home so your cat always has one nearby.
Keep food and water bowls separate - cats prefer their water away from their meals.
Cats tend to find water in a bowl boring, but water from the tap exciting. This is because running water appeals to cats' playful instincts.
When they play with the water with their paws and then lick them, they ingest fluid. It also tastes better than stale water.
If you don't want to rely on the tap, you can try a drinking fountain. However, it should not hum or make other operating noises, as this can scare off cats that are sensitive to noise.
Ideally, the fountain should be easy to clean and made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or ceramic, which do not absorb unpleasant odours so quickly.
With a few simple adjustments, even the most reluctant drinkers can stay healthy and hydrated.
