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Quick answer: as a general guide, a healthy dog or cat usually drinks around 50 ml per kilo of body weight a day, although this varies with diet, heat and activity (wet food provides part of that water). Offer fresh, clean water in several places, change the water daily and see your vet if you notice them drinking much more or much less than usual.
Water is the most important nutrient. A well-hydrated animal regulates its temperature better, digests better and looks after its kidneys and urinary system. Cats in particular tend to drink little, so it is worth giving them a helping hand.
Signs to watch for
- Drinking much more than normal or passing more urine: this can be a sign of various health problems. See your vet.
- Drinking very little, dry or sticky gums, lethargy or passing little urine: this also needs checking.
- In summer, heavy panting, drooling or weakness can indicate heatstroke: this is an emergency.
8 tips to help them drink more
- Several water stations around the home.
- Always fresh water: change it at least once a day.
- Clean bowls: wash them daily; the smell of a dirty bowl can put them off.
- A water fountain: moving water attracts many cats and dogs.
- Wide bowls for cats, so their whiskers do not touch the sides.
- Keep water away from food and, for cats, from the litter tray.
- Wet food as part of the diet.
- A portable water bottle on walks and trips, especially in hot weather.
Products for good hydration
Wood-effect fountain 1.2 LView product
Trevi 3 L fountainView product
2-in-1 feeder and fountainView product
See cat water fountains and dog water bowls.
Frequently asked questions
How much water should a 4 kg cat drink?
As a guide, around 200 ml a day in total, including the water in wet food. What matters is spotting changes compared with what they normally drink.
Can I give them tap water?
If it is safe for human consumption in your area, yes. The essential thing is that it is fresh and clean.
Is it a good idea to put ice in their water in summer?
A few ice cubes can keep it cool. Provide shade and avoid exercise during the hottest hours.
For information only. If you notice changes in how they drink or urinate, see your vet.