A very simple question, but one that few owners can truly answer: does my cat drink enough? Here are the benchmarks to know to assess your companion's water needs.
How much water should a cat drink?
In general, a cat needs about 50 to 60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. For a 4 kg cat, this represents about 200 to 240 ml per day, including the water contained in their food.
Diet changes everything
This benchmark varies enormously depending on the type of diet:
- Dry food only: dry food contains very little water (about 10%), so the cat must compensate by drinking more from a bottle or bowl.
- Wet food (pâté): it already contains 70 to 80% water, which significantly reduces the need to drink separately.
A cat fed exclusively on dry food may therefore seem to drink "a lot" when they are simply compensating for a drier diet — and conversely, a cat fed on wet food may seem to almost never drink, which is normal.
Other factors to consider
- Ambient temperature: a cat drinks more in summer or in a heated home
- Physical activity: a very active cat has higher water needs
- Age: kittens and senior cats may have different needs, especially in the event of kidney problems (common in senior cats)
How to encourage my cat to drink enough?
If your cat is almost exclusively on dry food, a few simple adjustments can help:
- Increase the number of water points in the house
- Change the water daily so that it stays fresh
- Offer a water fountain, which stimulates the cat's natural attraction to moving water
When to worry?
If you notice that your cat is drinking much more or much less than usual, suddenly and persistently, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian: this can be a sign of kidney disorders, diabetes, or other health problems. These tips do not replace veterinary advice.
In summary
There is no single figure that applies to all cats: the right benchmark depends above all on the type of diet. The essential thing is to remain attentive to changes in your cat's behavior around water.
To learn more, discover our article Why is my cat not drinking enough water? and our 3.5L wireless water fountain to encourage better daily hydration.