Why Your Cat Refuses to Drink Water and How to Keep Them Hydrated

June 13, 2025 Cat Water Fountains Australia

It’s no secret that cats are picky little creatures. With strong opinions and zero hesitation about showing them. But when your feline friend flat-out refuses to drink water? That’s a cause for concern.

Let’s explore some of the most common reasons your cat might be avoiding water and how you can help them stay healthy and hydrated.

If anything feels off or urgent, definitely check in with your vet.

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1. Preference for running water

Some cats simply don’t like still water.
In the wild, running water is seen as safer and cleaner than stagnant puddles. That instinct still lives in your pampered indoor fluffball today.

If your cat’s ignoring their bowl but obsessed with the tap or shower, a cat water fountain might be the answer. The constant movement and sound can encourage even the fussiest feline to drink more often.

2. They Might Be Feeling Unwell

Refusing to drink water can sometimes signal illness.
Conditions like kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or dental pain can all affect your cat’s drinking habits.

Look out for signs like:

Lethargy
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
Changes in urination

If anything feels off, don’t wait—call your vet and get them checked.

3. Their Diet Is High in Moisture

If your cat eats mostly wet food, they might not feel the need to drink as much.
That’s not always a problem—wet food often contains up to 70–80% moisture, which can meet most of their daily water needs.

Still, it’s important to give them access to fresh drinking water at all times, especially if they switch between dry and wet food.

4. They Don’t Like the Bowl Location

Cats can be weird about where they drink.
Some prefer their water far away from their food bowl or litter tray. Why? In the wild, they instinctively avoid drinking near potential contamination sources.

Try this:
Move the water bowl to a different room or corner of the house. You might be surprised how quickly their interest changes.

5. They’re Not Impressed With the Water Quality

Cats are picky. (Shocking, I know.)
If their bowl hasn’t been cleaned in a while, or the water’s gone a bit stale, they might just opt out.

Best practice:

Clean the bowl daily
Use filtered water if your tap water smells strongly of chlorine
Consider a stainless steel or ceramic bowl to avoid odours or bacteria

A fountain helps here too—it keeps water moving, oxygenated, and much more appealing.

Final Thoughts

Understanding why your cat isn’t drinking is the first step. Whether it’s a preference, a health issue, or just poor bowl placement, a few simple changes can often make a big difference.

✅ Try this:

Switch to a cat water fountain
Move their water bowl to a quieter or separate area
Keep it fresh, clean, and away from food
Talk to your vet if anything seems off

With a little effort, you can keep your cat happy, hydrated, and thriving.

Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat's diet or healthcare routine.

FAQs

How long can cats go without water?

Cats can survive without water for up to three to four days. However, it's important to ensure that your cat always has access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.

How much water should a cat drink?

On average, cats should drink around 75 to 133 ml (2.5-4.5 ounces) of water per 5 pounds (2.2 kg) of body weight per day. However, this can vary depending on factors such as age, diet, and activity level.

How long can a cat survive without water?

Cats can survive without water for up to three to four days. However, it's important to note that dehydration can cause serious health problems, so it's important to ensure that your cat always has access to fresh water.

How to get a cat to drink water?

To encourage your cat to drink more water, you can try investing in a pet fountain, which provides a continuous stream of running water. You can also try adjusting the placement of the water bowl, making sure the water is fresh and clean, and adding water to your cat's food. If your cat still refuses to drink water, consult with your vet to rule out any underlying health issues.

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