How to Keep Your Cat Hydrated in Summer

As the days grow longer and the sun beams brighter this season, you may notice your cat sprawling out in shady spots, grooming more frequently to cope with the heat, or even panting noticeably after playing several rounds of fetch. While we are free to cool off by sipping cold drinks, our cats feel the heat as much when the sun is blazing outside. Hydration is just as essential for them as it is for us, yet it can be tricky to tell if your cat is drinking enough water. To keep your cat hydrated in summer, it helps to recognize the signs of dehydration and understand the simple changes you can make to support their healthy water intake.

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Why Hydration Matters More in Summer

Evolved from desert dwellers, cats are naturally prone to drinking less water than many other animals. However, elevated temperatures can lead to faster fluid loss and increase the risk of dehydration. During warmer months, cats may groom more often to stay cool, losing additional moisture through their saliva. While panting is uncommon among cats, it can occur after a full-on play session, like chasing feather wands or laser dots.

Staying hydrated helps cats regulate their body temperature, support kidney function, and maintain energy levels. While it may seem like your cat is doing just fine lounging in the sun, a lack of water can affect their health more than you might expect. Some early signs of dehydration include dry or sticky gums, reduced energy, sunken eyes, and irregular urination. You might also notice your cat eating less or acting more withdrawn than usual. A quick, simple way to check for dehydration is the skin pinch test: gently pinch the skin between your cat’s shoulder blades and see how quickly it turns to place. If it stays up for a moment, your cat may be dehydrated.

How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water (Without a Fuss)

Cats can be particular about when, where, and how they drink water. The good news is that keeping your cat hydrated does not require a complete routine overhaul. Several thoughtful adjustments can go a long way in helping your cat stay healthy throughout summer.

Water bowls

Depending on your cat’s habits and preferences, the placement of their water bowl can make a big difference to their liking. Some cats may turn up their noses and walk away if the bowl is too close to their food or litter box. Cats love cleanliness and prefer their water fresh in a quiet spot, ideally away from strong odors or heavy foot traffic.

The material of the bowl can also affect your cat’s drinking habits. Glass bowls are smooth, easy to clean, and do not absorb odors or flavors over time, though they can chip or shatter if dropped. Stainless steel is durable, lightweight, and bacteria-resistant, but may slide on hard floors unless placed on a mat. Ceramic bowls tend to stay in place due to their weight and are often chosen for their odor resistance. They are heavy enough to stay put, even with a clumsy paw swipe, though they are considerably fragile as well and should be checked for cracks over time.

Regularly Clean and Refill the Water Bowl

Cats are very particular about their water being fresh and clean, so ensure to wash their water bowl regularly and refill it with fresh water daily. Cats tend to avoid stale water, so maintaining a clean, replenished bowl is crucial.

Try a Water Fountain

Cats are instinctively drawn to running water, as they associate it with freshness and cleanliness. Using a pet fountain can increase your cat’s interest in drinking, as the continuous flow keeps the water cool and fresh throughout the day. The sound and movement of the fountain can also attract their attention, making drinking feel more like a treat than a chore.

Incorporate Wet Food Into Their Diet

Another effective way to increase hydration is by incorporating wet food into your cat’s meals. Wet food has a high moisture content, which can provide a significant portion of your cat’s daily water intake. For picky cats, consider mixing wet food with dry kibble to entice them to drink more.

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Keep Your Cat Cool and Hydrated All Summer

Hydration is crucial for maintaining your cat’s health and well-being, particularly during the summer heat. By making minor adjustments to your cat’s water provision, you can help keep them hydrated and prevent the dangers of dehydration.

Stay cool, kitties!