Kidney problems in cats aren’t uncommon, and a lack of water is often the culprit. Here’s how to keep your kitty hydrated and healthy.

Cat parents are well aware that felines are fussy when it comes to fluid intake. A cat’s decision to drink is based on a few different variables including bowl location, the freshness of water, and how it tastes. She may even opt not to drink if she’s being watched! But water intake plays an important role when it comes to your kitty’s health. Dehydration can lead to a number of problems including dry skin and coat, heat stroke, and even kidney disease. Needless to say, taking steps to ensure she drinks regularly is crucial!

Wild vs. domesticated

Cats are predatory animals by nature, which means that in the wild they would attain most of their fluids through their prey. For instance, mice contain almost 70% water, which is why they are one of a cat’s favorites. Because domestic cats don’t consume nearly as many mice (if any), they need to drink water in order to stay hydrated.

Domestic cats are known to prefer running water over still water. It is assumed they are suspicious over still water and attribute freshness to running water. Cats also dislike having their food bowls and water bowls too close together due to risk of contamination.

How much water does your cat need?

A normal cat requires about 50ml of water per kilogram of bodyweight per day. As we’ve seen, a lack of fluid intake can lead to potential health issues. In fact, one in three cats experience some form of kidney disease, which can correlate to a lack of fluid intake. Kidney disease is a leading cause of illness in cats and one of the most common reasons for visits to the vet.

Encouraging your cat to drink enough fluids is the simplest way of gaining peace of mind.  KittyRade was formulated by veterinarians to encourage reliable, daily hydration in cats with a delicious chicken taste and a low salt content. KittyRade also contains prebiotics to support gut health, improve digestion and facilitate nutrient absorption. If you’re worried your kitty isn’t drinking enough, give KittyRade a try! Click here to learn more.