As the temperatures soar, it becomes crucial to ensure your cat stays hydrated. Dehydration can lead to numerous health problems, including urinary tract infections and kidney disease. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the amount of water your cat is taking in.
One common issue with plain water bowls is that they do not provide easy visibility of the water level, making it challenging to track your cat’s water intake. If you face a similar challenge, it is recommended to use Necoichi Water Bowls, which come with a handy measurement in ml to help you track the water intake.
While experimenting with the type of bowl you can offer your cat, it is best to avoid plastic bowls and opt for ones made of ceramic, glass, or metal. Additionally, some cats prefer to drink from a fountain since they enjoy moving water over still water.
Another vital aspect to keep in mind is that most cats do not like their whiskers rubbing against the sides of their bowl while drinking or eating. This phenomenon, known as whisker fatigue, can impact their drinking habits. Therefore, it is recommended to use shallow, wide, and elevated bowls for your cat’s food and water. This concept is especially important for Persian cats, who have a very flat face.
If you notice that your cat is not interested in water despite your efforts, there are a few things you can try. You can supplement tap water with the leftover water used to cook chicken or fish, tuna cans, or soup made from blended prawns, fish, or meat. These options can entice your cat to drink more water due to the taste and smell of the meat in the water/soup. In hot weather, freezing these options into small ice cubes and adding them to your cat’s water can also make them more interested in what you have to offer while keeping the water cool.
The number of water bowls placed around the house also plays a crucial part in ensuring your cat stays hydrated. Ensure that you have sufficient bowls per cat and scatter them around your home. While it may seem reasonable to place the water bowl next to the food bowl, some cats have an instinctual aversion to drinking water near a food source. Therefore, changing the location of the bowl can make a significant difference.
If you are concerned about your cat’s hydration levels, you can always resort to liquid supplements sold by companies that can rehydrate your cat quickly.
In conclusion, keeping your cat hydrated is a crucial aspect of ensuring your cat’s overall health. By following the tips provided above, you can be sure that your furry friend remains happy, healthy, and hydrated all summer long.
