Can You Force Feed Water to a Cat? A Guide

Section 1: Why Do Cats Not Like Drinking Water?

Cats, with ancestors predominantly from desert regions, have adapted to their environment with kidneys that have a high capacity for water reabsorption. This means that cats generally have a lower water requirement, and many are naturally disinclined to drink water.

However, a lack of hydration in cats can lead to increased kidney workload, and older cats are more prone to kidney failure. Additionally, reduced body fluids can cause urine to be reabsorbed multiple times, leading to concentration and potentially crystals or stones. Cats that don't drink enough water are also at a higher risk of urinary tract infections, including urethritis, cystitis, and nephritis. Therefore, pet owners must ensure their cats are adequately hydrated on a daily basis.

Section 2: Should You Force Feed Water to Cats?

It is not advisable to force water into cats directly. Pet owners may not be able to control the amount and speed of the water, which could lead to the cat being choked on the trachea, posing a significant risk of water entering the lungs. This can also cause the cat to become startled, leading to stress responses and potentially making it even more hesitant to drink water in the future. It is recommended that pet owners find alternative methods to increase their cat's water intake.

Section 3: How to Increase Your Cat's Water Intake

Change your cat's water daily to ensure freshness, as cats have a keen sense of smell and can easily detect the freshness of water. You might also consider providing a flowing water bowl to spark their interest.

Since cats perceive moisture as coming from their food, you can offer wet food, homemade meals, or add milk, fish broth, or warm water to their dry kibble to ensure they consume enough water during meals.

Place multiple water bowls around the home. Sometimes, cats may prefer to drink from cups, sinks, or flower pots rather than their own bowls. By having several bowls and frequently changing their locations, you can increase their novelty and encourage drinking. Additionally, placing cat food or meaty freezedried treats in the water can make it more appealing.

If your cat wasn't particularly fond of water from the start, you may need to train them. Try temporarily reducing the amount of dry food you offer, allowing them to get slightly hungry. Then, when they ask for food, give them water instead, and only feed them after they've had a drink. This can help establish a habit of drinking water.

If all else fails and your cat still doesn't drink much, consider using a syringe to feed them water. Remove the needle and slowly administer the water at the corner of their mouth, being gentle to avoid overwhelming them. Aim for about 60ml of water per kilogram of body weight daily, and remember to do this in small, frequent doses.

Regarding the question of whether to force water into cats, if your cat is experiencing symptoms like heatstroke, frequent urination, or discomfort during urination due to a lack of water, it's important to consult an online veterinarian promptly and seek medical treatment to avoid complications.