Like us, cats drink water because they’re thirsty.
One of the most important things to consider when caring for your kitty is her water consumption.
Depending on the breed, the amount of water a cat needs can vary greatly. On average, cats drink between 10-30 ml per pound of cat per day.
Large breeds
Siamese cats, for example, are a large breed that can weigh up to 18 pounds.
On average, they need about two ounces of water for every pound of cat, meaning a Siamese cat will need about 36 ounces of water per day.
Small breeds
On the other end of the spectrum, smaller breeds like the Munchkin or Singapura may only weigh three or four pounds.
These cats usually require only one ounce of water per pound of cat, meaning they may only need three or four ounces of water per day.
Medium-sized breeds
Medium-sized breeds such as the American Shorthair or British Shorthair typically weigh between eight and ten pounds.
These cats usually need around 1.5 ounces of water for every pound of cat, which amounts to about 12 ounces of water per day.
A cat’s size isn’t the only factor to consider when determining how much water kitty needs. Cats that are more active, or live in warmer climates, or have a high-protein diet may need more water.
Thirst is regulated by the brain, but influenced by the health of the body.
If your cat is drinking more water than usual, it may be a sign of a medical condition or other issue.
Here are six possible reasons why your cat may be drinking water excessively and what you should do about it.
1. Dehydration
Dehydration can be caused by several factors, such as a poor diet, being outdoors in hot weather, or lack of access to enough water.
If your cat is showing signs of dehydration, such as panting, dry mouth, sunken eyes, or loss of appetite, it is important to take them to the vet for an exam.
2. Type of Food
Canned wet cat foods contain as much as 80 percent moisture, so cats that eat wet food might not get as thirsty as cats that eat dry food.
3. Stress
Stressed-out cats may drink more water in an attempt to comfort themselves. If your cat is drinking more than usual, look for signs of stress, such as changes in their behavior, and take steps to reduce their stress levels.
Medical Conditions
Urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes are three common – and life-threatening – medical conditions that require veterinary care.
When we examine your cat, we will run laboratory tests. The test results will help us distinguish between normal thirst and disease, and will help us diagnose any underlying medical conditions so we can advise you on the best course of action.
4. Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections can cause cats to drink more water in an attempt to flush out the infection.
5. Kidney Disease
When a cat’s kidneys are not able to properly balance the fluids in its body, a cat will drink more water than usual. If you observe an insatiable thirst, take your cat to the vet as soon as possible.
6. Diabetes
Diabetes can cause cats to drink more water, as the body is not able to process sugars properly.
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If you are concerned that your cat is drinking too much water, contact us as soon as possible. The sooner we can pinpoint the underlying condition and begin treatment, the greater the likelihood of a positive outcome.
No matter the breed or size of your cat, make sure they have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
By providing your cat with the proper amount of water and being mindful of the other factors that can affect her water consumption, you can ensure that kitty stays healthy and hydrated.
