What should you do if your cat stops drinking water in winter? Here's how to increase your cat's water intake for this common issue—let's take a look together!
Winter Hydration Tips for Cats
Reminder: During the cold season, the water in your cat's bowl can become noticeably cooler. This drop in temperature may reduce some cats' willingness to drink, leading to lower daily water intake. For cats that already dislike drinking water or those prone to urinary tract issues, keeping an eye on winter hydration is especially important.
Why Cold Weather Affects Hydration
Cats naturally sense temperature changes and might avoid water that feels too cold. As a result, they may end up drinking less, which can increase the risk of dehydration or urinary problems.
How to Encourage Drinking
- Use a pet-safe water fountain to keep the water fresh and gently moving.
- Offer slightly warm (not hot) water to make it more comfortable to drink.
- Place multiple bowls around your home to make access easy and convenient.
- Add a little water to wet food to subtly boost daily intake.
By taking a few simple steps, you can help your cat stay healthy, comfortable, and well-hydrated all winter long.
Ideal Water Temperature for Cats
Cats can be surprisingly particular about their drinking water. Some prefer it fresh from a cool bowl, while others enjoy it slightly warm, especially during colder months.
If your cat prefers warm water, keep the temperature close to body temperature or slightly lower—around 25–35°C. It should feel comfortably warm to the touch but never hot.
Providing water at a pleasant temperature encourages hydration, supports kidney health, and helps maintain your cat's overall well-being. You might even notice your cat drinking more often once the water feels "just right."
For convenience, consider using a pet water fountain with temperature control to keep the water fresh and at a consistent, gentle warmth.
How to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water in Winter
When the weather turns cold, cats often drink less water, which can lead to dehydration or urinary problems. To help your feline friend stay hydrated through the winter, try these simple and cat-friendly tips:
- Offer warm water and observe your cat's reaction to ensure the temperature is comfortable.
- Use insulated bowls, thermostatic fountains, or warming pads to maintain the water's temperature.
- Place the water bowl in a warm, cozy spot where your cat likes to spend time.
- Add a small amount of warm water to wet food or meat purée to increase moisture intake.
By making these small changes, you can help your cat stay hydrated and healthy even during the coldest months.
1. Provide Warm Water and Observe the Cat's Acceptance
Many cats are picky about their drinking water. Providing warm water can sometimes make a noticeable difference in their willingness to drink. Cats tend to prefer temperatures that are closer to their body temperature, especially during cooler months.
To start, offer a small bowl of slightly warm water and place it in the cat's usual drinking spot. Avoid making the water too hot—lukewarm is ideal. Watch the cat's reaction: if it sniffs, licks, or begins to drink more readily, this may indicate that it finds the warmer temperature more pleasant.
Over several days, observe changes in the cat's drinking habits. Increased fluid intake can support kidney health and overall hydration. Every cat has unique preferences, so experimentation is key. Small environmental adjustments like this can greatly enhance a pet's comfort and wellbeing.
2. Use a Thermal Water Bowl or Constant Temperature Fountain to Keep Your Cat's Water Warm
Cats tend to drink more when their water is at a comfortable temperature. During colder months, maintaining warm water can encourage hydration and support kidney health.
To help your cat stay healthy and hydrated, consider using one of the following:
- An insulated water bowl that keeps water warm for hours.
- A temperature-controlled water fountain that maintains ideal drinking conditions.
- A heated coaster designed for pet bowls to ensure consistent warmth.
These simple tools can make a big difference in your cat's daily comfort, especially in chilly weather.
3. Place the Water Bowl in a Warm Spot Near Where Your Cat Often Stays
During the colder months, cats tend to drink less water because the air is cooler and they spend more time indoors. To encourage your cat to stay hydrated, make sure clean water is always available and easy to access.
Tip: Place the water bowl in a warmer spot close to where your cat usually stays. Cats prefer comfort and are more likely to drink when the water is located in a cozy, familiar space.
You can also try using a pet water fountain to keep the water fresh and appealing, or add a bit of warm water to your cat's wet food to increase their fluid intake. These small adjustments can make a big difference in your furry friend's health and happiness during winter.
4. Add Warm Water to Wet Cat Food for Extra Hydration
Proper hydration plays a key role in maintaining your cat's health and overall well-being. Cats often drink less water than they need, especially if they eat mostly dry kibble. Encouraging them to take in more moisture is an easy way to support kidney function and digestion.
Tip: Add a small amount of warm water to your cat's wet food or meat purée to provide extra hydration.
The added water not only increases fluid intake but also enhances the aroma and texture of the food, making it more appealing to finicky eaters. Always ensure the water is warm, not hot, and mix it well before serving. Over time, this simple routine can help reduce the risk of dehydration and urinary tract issues in cats.
Helping Your Cat Stay Hydrated in Winter
Cats, like people, have their own unique preferences when it comes to drinking water. Some cats enjoy room-temperature water, while others prefer it slightly warm. A few might even care deeply about the size or material of their water bowl—or favor running water over still.
The key is not to insist that your cat must drink warm water, but rather to find what encourages your cat to drink more willingly. Whether that means experimenting with different bowls, temperatures, or fountains, observation is the first step to success.
Keep an eye on your cat's daily water intake and urination habits. These are important indicators of health, especially during the colder months, when cats tend to drink less. Maintaining hydration is one of the most essential parts of winter wellness for your feline friend.
About the Pet Care Column
This column provides professional insights and advice on pet training, health, and daily care. However, it's important to note that every pet is unique — their health condition, breed, and living environment can greatly influence how relevant certain suggestions may be.
Therefore, while our experts strive to offer accurate and helpful guidance, the effectiveness of each answer may vary. Some recommendations might not fully apply to every pet owner's situation.
If you notice that your pet is showing unusual behavior, or if you have specific concerns, we strongly encourage you to consult a certified pet trainer or veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice.
