Cats' Eating & Drinking Habits: Insights & Tips

Eating / Feeding

In the wild, cats consume small meals as many as 20 times a day and continue eating throughout the 24hour cycle. This means that cats should have access to food at any time, allowing for convenient, small meals during both day and night. It's quite normal for cats to leave after having a small meal.

Feeding cats a single main diet, with occasional offerings of a small amount of new food or treats (not exceeding 10% of their daily intake), may align more closely with their natural instincts and reduce the risk of overeating.

Eating is not a social activity and should not be influenced by other cats. On the contrary, cats adhere to strict individual routines when it comes to hunting, feeding, and selfgrooming. Using puzzle feeders can provide mental stimulation and help prevent overeating in cats that are allowed to eat freely. Owners can show their care by engaging in play that mimics hunting or by simply talking to their cats.

Drinking / Hydration

Cats generally prefer drinking from clean tap water, which is often welltolerated. However, if the water has a high level of chlorination or a strong odor, it's best to use filtered water or switch to uncarbonated natural mineral water. Rainwater is also a suitable option if possible.

It's advisable to have multiple drinking stations throughout the house, if feasible, to ensure that cats have access to water in different rooms.

The water bowl should be kept at a distance from the feeding area, ideally placed in another room. A preference for smaller bowls is generally preferred, but some cats may have a preference for certain materials or sizes. Whether a cat will accept a water fountain depends on its individual preferences.

It's important to be aware of what cats drink and to avoid harmful substances. Prevent cats from ingesting toxic liquids by ensuring containers of substances like coffee, tea, or energy drinks are out of reach. Be cautious around bathroom cleaning agents and when adding medications to fish tanks. For cats that go outdoors, ensure flower pots and watering cans are free of pesticides. Be mindful of antifreeze added to garden ponds during winter, as it can be harmful to cats.

As for dairy products, consuming small amounts of fullfat milk, yogurt, or cream is unlikely to trigger lactose intolerance symptoms, but it's best to opt for lactosefree milk (often labeled as "catspecific milk").