Still water is fully authorized and absolutely essential for cats. Providing fresh, clean water ad libitum is vital for their daily health and well-being.
Benefits of still water
Although it has no nutritional value, still water provides essential hydration. Scientifically, it helps maintain the hydric and electrolytic balance in the cat’s body and supports optimal kidney function. Furthermore, providing running water can actively stimulate drinking in cats.
Recommendations for daily intake
It is recommended to offer fresh, renewed water daily. Using a water fountain can be particularly useful to encourage your cat to drink. When using tap water, you can let it sit for a while to allow the chlorine to evaporate. Alternatively, using filtered tap water can improve both the taste and smell. Drinking water should ideally contain less than 5 ‰ of solids, and water with more than 7 ‰ of solids should be avoided. Always avoid stagnant water, as it can harbor microbes and parasites.
Senior cats and cats prone to developing urinary crystals are particularly vulnerable and require careful monitoring of their daily water intake.
Risks and symptoms
There are no inherent risks to still water itself, but consuming contaminated or stagnant water can lead to gastrointestinal issues. If a cat drinks contaminated water, symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea may appear.
What to do in case of symptoms
If your cat has consumed potentially contaminated water and exhibits vomiting or diarrhea, monitor the symptoms closely. You should contact a veterinarian if these symptoms persist or cause concern.
Learn more with APPETTO
To help you better understand the dietary needs of cats and dogs and to consult information about various foods, you can download the APPETTO application.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice or diagnosis of a veterinarian. If your pet shows any persistent or concerning symptoms, please consult a veterinary professional.