7 Signs Your Cat Isn’t Drinking Enough
Quick answer: watch for small or infrequent litter clumps, dark or strong-smelling urine, dry gums, lethargy, constipation, a poor appetite and skin that’s slow to settle when gently lifted. If you notice any of these, especially suddenly, see your vet.
General information, not veterinary advice.
The signs
- Fewer or smaller pee clumps in the litter box than usual.
- Strong-smelling or dark urine.
- Dry or tacky gums instead of moist and slick.
- Skin tenting: gently lift the skin between the shoulder blades; it should drop back quickly.
- Lethargy: sleeping more, less interested in play.
- Constipation: hard, dry stools or straining.
- Poor appetite.
Straining in the litter box with little or no urine is an emergency, especially in male cats. Go to the vet immediately.
Simple ways to help
- Put water in several places, away from food and litter.
- Try wide, shallow bowls; some cats dislike whiskers touching the sides.
- Offer moving water with a fountain. A cordless fountain keeps flowing during power cuts.
- Ask your vet about adding wet food.
More ideas in our Cat Hydration Guide, or shop Power-Cut-Proof Hydration.
