When the sun is out and the temperatures rise, we all know how important it is to drink plenty of water. The same goes for our feline friends. Cats are naturally not big drinkers, but staying hydrated is crucial for their health, especially during the summer months. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including urinary tract problems and heatstroke.

As a responsible cat owner, it’s vital to be proactive in ensuring your cat gets enough fluids. Here are some simple yet effective ways to encourage your cat to drink more and stay cool when the heat is on.

The Right Bowl in the Right Place 🥣

It might seem obvious, but where and what you place your cat's water in can make a huge difference.

• Size and Material: Use a wide, shallow bowl. Cats' whiskers are very sensitive, and they don't like them touching the sides of a deep bowl. Ceramic or stainless steel bowls are great options as they are easy to clean and don't retain odours like plastic can.
• Location, Location, Location: Place water bowls in multiple spots around your home. Cats often prefer to drink away from their food bowl, as instinct tells them not to contaminate their water with food. Good spots include a quiet corner in the living room, a hallway, or even a windowsill.
• Keep it Fresh: Change the water daily. Just like us, cats prefer fresh, clean water. A little tip: add a couple of ice cubes to the water on particularly hot days to keep it cool and refreshing.

Innovative Hydration Hacks 💡

Cats can be picky, so sometimes you need to get creative to boost their fluid intake.

• Fountain Fun: Many cats are attracted to the sound and movement of running water. A pet water fountain can be an excellent investment. The continuous flow encourages them to drink more often and the built-in filters keep the water fresh.
• The 'Puddle' Method: Place a very shallow, wide bowl of water in the bathtub or shower tray. Some cats are fascinated by this and will happily lap up the water from this 'puddle'.
• Add a Little Flavour: You can try adding a splash of tuna water (from a tin of tuna in spring water, not oil) or a little bit of chicken broth (salt-free) to your cat’s water bowl. This can make the water more appealing and enticing.

Food and Fluid Intake 🍽️

What your cat eats also plays a big part in their overall hydration.

• Wet Food Wonders: If your cat primarily eats dry food, consider supplementing their diet with wet food, especially during hot weather. Wet food has a much higher moisture content and can significantly contribute to their daily fluid intake.
• Hydrating Snacks: A few drops of water on their favourite treats or mixing a little water with their dry food can also help. Just remember to only make up a small amount at a time to prevent it from spoiling.

Recognising Dehydration 🆘

Knowing the signs of dehydration is crucial. While these methods help, if you're concerned, it’s important to know what to look for.

• Lethargy: Your cat is unusually sleepy or has less energy than normal.
• Sunken Eyes: Their eyes may appear sunken and dull.
• Loss of Skin Elasticity: Gently pinch the skin on the back of your cat's neck. If it doesn't spring back into place quickly, your cat may be dehydrated.
• Tacky Gums: Their gums may feel dry and sticky to the touch.

If you suspect your cat is dehydrated, contact your vet immediately. Providing enough clean, fresh water is one of the most important things you can do for your cat's well-being. By using these tips, you can help ensure your beloved companion stays happy, healthy, and hydrated all summer long.