Can wet food hydrate your cat?

Water is vital to humans and other animals. In his research, Nutritionist Fredrick J. Stare recommended that the average adult consumes 6-8 glasses of water per day, which can come from various beverages and water-rich foods. What about your cat?

Today, Hsviko would like to discuss a critical topic for cats: water intake, precisely the benefits of hydration through wet food. We understand the importance of keeping your cat’s body hydrated, and damp food plays an integral role.

Why wet food for cats?

As cats evolved in desert areas, they get most of their hydration from food rather than drinking from a water bowl.
Cats’ natural water needs are relatively low compared to ours, but that doesn’t mean we can neglect their water intake.
The lifestyles and diets of modern domestic cats have changed, and dry cat food, in particular, has become the preferred choice in many households, which may have inadvertently affected their water intake.

Therefore, in addition to dry cat food, they will also eat some canned wet food.

Wet cat food, with its high water content, is ideal for keeping cats hydrated. Unlike dry food, which averages only 6 to 10 percent water content, wet food usually contains 65 to 80 percent water, much closer to the water content in a cat’s natural diet.
This means that by consuming wet food, cats can enjoy their treats while unknowingly consuming more water, which is especially important for cats less inclined to drink water actively.

All cats need to eat wet food. Wet food is excellent for protecting the kidneys, which are one of the young killers of cats.

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Benefits of wet food for cats

When cats get older, they need water in their food to remove blood from their failing kidneys, and by this time, they have become accustomed to wet food. Getting cats to switch from wet food to dry food is very difficult. Cats will not drink enough water from day one. Therefore, it is recommended that cats be fed wet food as much as possible initially, as it is better for their health.

Cats can also die from dry food, don’t believe me? Dry food is deficient in moisture content (usually only 6% to 10%), much lower than the 65%-80% moisture content of a cat’s natural diet. This can lead to chronic dehydration in cats over time, reducing urination and over-concentrating the urine, increasing the risk of urinary disorders (e.g., urinary stones, lower urinary tract disease).

Being well-hydrated has multiple benefits for your cat’s health. It helps maintain proper kidney function and reduces the risk of urinary stones and bladder problems; it also promotes digestive health and keeps the skin and coat shiny. In addition, adequate water intake can help regulate body temperature and boost overall energy and well-being. Best Cat Skin and Coat Care Supplements

Cats can reduce the amount of water they drink by eating wet food. If your cat eats wet food and doesn’t drink water, as long as it looks happy and healthy, there’s usually no need to worry about anything else; feed it normally.

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Is it okay for my cat to eat only wet food without water?

Although wet food can provide your cat with a certain amount of moisture, it cannot completely replace direct water intake.
For cats less inclined to drink water actively, wet food can relieve the risk of dehydration and is particularly beneficial in promoting urinary health, reducing the likelihood of stones and urinary tract infections.
The cat’s bodily functions also require clean drinking water to maintain life activities such as primary metabolism, thermoregulation, and waste elimination. A long-term lack of direct drinking water may lead to chronic dehydration, which can affect kidney function and even lead to more severe health problems.
Cats should always have access to fresh water, regardless of the type of food they eat, but don’t worry if your cat is drinking less than you think is necessary. As long as your cat has a good appetite for a balanced diet, they are healthy and happy.

A combination of wet and dry cat food and encouraging direct access to water is recommended as the best plan to keep your cat healthy and energized.

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Why My Cat Won’t Drink Water

There are many situations in which a cat will not drink water, and it may be that it has eaten enough wet food that it doesn’t need additional hydration. It’s also possible that the bowl your cat uses to drink from is so dirty or the water is so messy that cats don’t even choose to drink it even if they are thirsty.

The next place to put the water bowl is not convenient for cats to drink from, and many people find other areas besides the Pet water bowl, such as faucets and fountains. You can also use a flowing water source (such as a pet fountain) to provide the rest of the water they need; cats are more inclined to choose a water source that flows.

Another reason is that your cat may be going through a treatment phase that will cause it to lower its thirst, requiring you to feed it wisely in conjunction with your veterinarian’s advice.

How to encourage your cat to drink more water

Cats are very sensitive to water quality. Make sure their drinking water is always fresh, clean, and free from unpleasant odors. Change the water in the water bowl daily and wash the bowl to remove any lingering flavors or impurities.

Some cats may prefer water that is closer to their body temperature. Try offering slightly warm water (be careful not to overheat it) to see if it stimulates their desire to drink.

Avoid plastic for cat drinking bowls; try stainless steel or ceramic.

Place cat water bowls in multiple places around the house. Sometimes, cats prefer to drink away from food, and many are more interested in running water. Many beautifully designed pet water fountains on the market mimic the natural sound of running water, which can attract cats to drink.

Summarizing

Wet food, as an essential part of a cat’s diet, can play an important role in hydration. Not only does it help our cats maintain a good state of hydration, but it also enhances their overall well-being. By understanding and practicing this knowledge, we, as pet owners, give them the gentlest care. Let’s work together to ensure our feline friends are healthy and happy!

FAQs

Can I add water to wet food?

Cats have a better sense of smell than taste, and it is not recommended to add water to wet food again. Adding water to wet food will only make your cat eat less.