Keeping Your Cat Hydrated in Hot Weather
Cats aren't always the best at telling us what they need, and hydration is a perfect example. Unlike dogs, who'll happily lap up water after a walk, cats can be surprisingly reluctant drinkers even when temperatures climb.
As a cat sitter I try to keep an eye on their water intake as this is one of the first things I check on each visit.
Why cats are prone to dehydration?
Cats evolved from desert dwelling ancestors, which means their bodies are naturally efficient at conserving water. The downside is that this instinct can mask early signs of dehydration, and many cats simply don't feel driven to drink as often as they should, especially if they're eating dry food rather than wet.
What signs to watch out for
· Lethargy or reduced playfulness
· Dry or tacky gums
· Reduced skin elasticity (a gentle skin-tent test at the scruff)
· Sunken eyes
· Reduced litter tray output, or noticeably concentrated urine
If you notice several of these together, especially in older cats or those with existing health conditions, it's worth a call to your vet.
Practical ways to encourage drinking
Multiple water stations
Cats often prefer water away from their food bowl it's an instinctive thing, harking back to avoiding contaminated water sources near prey. Try placing bowls in multiple rooms around the house to encourage more drinking.
Pet fountains
Many cats are drawn to moving water and a fountain can make a real difference for cats who otherwise will ignore a static bowl.
Wet food
Swapping some dry meals for wet food is one of the easiest ways to boost overall water intake, since wet food often contains between 70–80% moisture.
Placing Ice cubes or using colder water in their bowls on particularly warm days may offer some relief and encourage more drinking.
Wide, shallow bowls
Cats dislike deep narrow bowls as can cause "whisker fatigue”. Ceramic or glass bowls /dishes often works better than plastic ones.
Shade and airflow
Keep their favourite resting spots out of direct sun, and make sure there's good ventilation, particularly for cats who aren't keen on fuss but still feel the heat.
If you're travelling during a warm spell, it's worth mentioning to your regular cat sitter your cat's usual drinking habits when you meet them. As well as any preferences for bowl type, location, or fountain use are genuinely useful to know. A good cat sitter should be checking water levels and topping up fresh water at every single visit, not just food.
If you're in Portishead and would like a hand keeping your cat comfortable and hydrated this summer.
Get in touch
Rebecca Jones
07557 022201
Portishead Cat Sitter
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