Why Is my Cat Not Drinking Water?

When your cat isn’t drinking water, it’s easy to worry. Hydration plays an important role in your cat’s health, but some cats don’t seem interested in their water bowl. While a cat’s hydration needs may vary depending on age, diet, and environment, a noticeable decrease in water intake should always be taken seriously. If you’ve noticed your cat avoiding their water dish or drinking less than usual, it’s important to understand the potential reasons behind it. Let’s explore why this behavior might happen and when to contact your veterinarian.

Cats and Water Intake – What’s Normal?

Cats have a reputation for being low-maintenance drinkers. Unlike dogs, who often gulp water with enthusiasm, cats evolved as desert animals and tend to get most of their hydration from food. If your cat eats wet food regularly, they may not need to drink as much water from their bowl. However, if your cat is on a dry kibble diet, they will need to supplement their hydration by drinking more frequently.

In general, cats need about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight each day. This includes both food and water sources. If you’re noticing that your cat isn’t drinking enough—or has stopped drinking altogether—it could point to something more serious. Cats are also excellent at hiding discomfort or illness, so reduced water intake may be one of the few early signs something is wrong. When asking “Why is my cat not drinking water?” it’s important to consider their overall behavior, eating habits, litter box usage, and activity level.

Medical Reasons Your Cat May Not Be Drinking Water

Sometimes, a cat not drinking water can indicate an underlying health issue. If your cat suddenly stops drinking or seems uninterested in their usual water sources, schedule an appointment at Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield. Here are some possible medical reasons for this behavior:

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can cause dehydration and impact how your cat processes fluids. In the early stages, you might notice an increase in thirst, but as the condition progresses, cats can lose interest in food and water altogether. This condition is more common in older cats but can affect cats of any age.

Urinary Tract Issues

Cats with urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder inflammation, or urinary crystals may avoid drinking water due to pain or discomfort. A cat not drinking water might also be urinating outside the litter box or visiting the litter box more often than usual.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Nausea, constipation, or other digestive issues can reduce your cat’s desire to eat or drink. If your cat seems less interested in food and water, vomits, or has a change in bowel habits, they may need a medical evaluation.

Dental Pain

Oral pain can make drinking uncomfortable. If your cat has a dental infection, loose tooth, or gum inflammation, they may avoid their water bowl entirely. You may also see signs like drooling, bad breath, or pawing at the mouth. If your cat is not drinking water and is also showing any changes in behavior, appetite, or litter box use, call Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield at (919) 488-5300 to schedule an appointment.

Environmental Factors That Affect Water Intake

Your cat’s environment may also contribute to changes in their drinking behavior. Even small changes can make a big impact, especially for sensitive or anxious cats.

Type of Water Bowl

The shape, size, or material of the bowl may influence whether your cat chooses to drink from it. Some cats dislike metal or plastic bowls due to the taste or smell. Others prefer wide, shallow dishes that don’t touch their whiskers.

Water Location

If your cat’s water bowl is placed near the litter box, in a high-traffic area, or next to a noisy appliance, they might avoid it. Cats prefer quiet, low-stress areas for eating and drinking.

Stale or Unclean Water

Cats are naturally picky about water quality. If the water has been sitting too long, has food particles in it, or isn’t freshened regularly, your cat might refuse to drink it. Daily rinsing and refilling can help keep it appealing.

Seasonal or Temperature Changes

In hotter months, cats may drink more to stay cool. But in winter, they might drink less—especially if the water is too cold. Cats often prefer room temperature water, so adjusting the temperature slightly may help.

Diet and Its Role in Hydration

Your cat’s diet plays a major role in how much water they drink. Wet food contains up to 80% moisture, while dry kibble only contains around 10%. If your cat eats a high-moisture diet, they may naturally drink less from their bowl. However, if you’ve recently switched from wet food to dry, your cat may not realize they need to drink more. This could lead to mild dehydration over time.

Transitioning Diets

When transitioning to a new food, watch for changes in thirst. A cat not drinking water after a diet change may be adjusting to the moisture content—or may not like the taste of their new food and reduce both eating and drinking.

Treats and Supplements

Some treats contain salt or additives that can affect hydration levels. Always check the ingredients in treats or supplements and consult your veterinarian with any questions about their impact on your cat’s water intake.

Behavioral or Psychological Factors

Cats are sensitive creatures, and stress or routine disruptions can cause them to eat or drink less. A cat not drinking water may be responding to emotional or behavioral triggers in their environment.

Recent Changes at Home

Have you recently moved, introduced a new pet, changed work schedules, or had house guests? Cats thrive on routine, and changes to their environment can impact their appetite and hydration habits.

Aging and Cognitive Changes

Senior cats may forget where their water bowl is or may not recognize the need to drink as often. Cognitive decline can also lead to reduced interest in normal daily behaviors, including hydration. If you suspect behavioral changes are influencing your cat’s water intake, speak with your veterinarian to rule out medical causes and discuss supportive strategies.

When Should You Schedule a Veterinary Appointment? 

If you’re concerned about your cat not drinking water, it’s best to schedule an appointment. Your veterinarian can assess your cat’s hydration status, run diagnostic tests, and identify any underlying issues. Some signs that require veterinary attention include:

• Dry or sticky gums
• Lethargy or weakness
• Decreased urination
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lack of interest in food
• Sudden weight loss

Hydration issues can escalate quickly in cats. Don’t wait to get answers. If you’re in Raleigh and wondering, “Why is my cat not drinking water?” please call Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield at (919) 488-5300 to book an appointment.

Helping Your Cat Stay Properly Hydrated

Once your veterinarian has ruled out medical concerns, you can work on ways to encourage better hydration. Always provide clean, fresh water in a quiet space, and consider offering a second water source in another part of the house. Many cats enjoy running water, and a pet fountain may spark their interest. You can also try adding water to wet food or offering a broth formulated specifically for cats. Never substitute plain water with milk or human food broths, as many contain ingredients unsafe for cats.

If you have questions about hydration or any changes in your cat’s routine, the team at Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield is here to help. Give us a call at (919) 488-5300.