What do cats drink? - briefly
Cats primarily drink water to meet their hydration needs. They may also occasionally consume other liquids present in their food, such as gravy or tuna juice, but water should always be available and is essential for their overall health.
What do cats drink? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet is primarily composed of meat and animal-based proteins. While water is an essential part of their diet, it's often overlooked that cats typically obtain most of their hydration from the food they eat rather than drinking water directly. Here’s a detailed look into what cats drink:
Food Moisture Content: The primary source of hydration for cats comes from the moisture content in their food. Wet or canned cat food typically has a high moisture content, ranging from 70% to 85%. This makes it an ideal choice for ensuring your cat stays hydrated, especially if they have a tendency to drink less water than necessary.
Water: While cats do not require as much water as humans or some other animals, it is still crucial that they have access to clean, fresh water at all times. Some cats are more prone to dehydration, such as senior cats or those with specific health conditions like kidney disease. In these cases, ensuring they drink enough water becomes even more important.
Milk: Contrary to popular belief, milk is not recommended for adult cats. Many cats are lactose intolerant and consuming milk can lead to stomach upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. Kittens can consume their mother's milk or a suitable kitten formula, but adult cats should avoid dairy products.
Alternative Hydration Sources: To encourage hydration, you can also introduce broths (without garlic or onion, which are toxic to cats) or cat-specific hydrating gels into their diet. These alternatives can be a helpful way to increase water intake, especially for cats that are picky about drinking water from a bowl.
Dehydration Signs: It’s essential to recognize the signs of dehydration in cats, which include dry mouth, sunken eyes, lethargy, and reduced skin elasticity (when pinched, the skin should spring back immediately). If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly.
Hydration Tips: To ensure your cat stays well-hydrated, consider the following tips:
- Place multiple water bowls around the house to encourage drinking.
- Keep the water bowl clean and filled with fresh water daily.
- Gradually introduce wet food into their diet if they primarily eat dry food.
- Consider using a pet water fountain, as many cats prefer running water over still water.
By understanding the importance of hydration in a cat's diet and taking steps to ensure they are adequately hydrated, you can significantly contribute to their overall health and well-being.