Cat water intake chart by weight
Estimated water from the bowl per day for a healthy adult cat eating dry food (cats on wet food drink much less) at normal activity, using about 50 mL per kg.
| Cat weight | mL per day | Fluid ounces | Cups | Too much (over) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lb (2.3 kg) | 113 mL | 3.8 oz | 0.48 | 227 mL |
| 6 lb (2.7 kg) | 136 mL | 4.6 oz | 0.58 | 272 mL |
| 8 lb (3.6 kg) | 181 mL | 6.1 oz | 0.77 | 363 mL |
| 10 lb (4.5 kg) | 227 mL | 7.7 oz | 0.96 | 454 mL |
| 12 lb (5.4 kg) | 272 mL | 9.2 oz | 1.15 | 544 mL |
| 14 lb (6.4 kg) | 318 mL | 10.7 oz | 1.34 | 635 mL |
| 16 lb (7.3 kg) | 363 mL | 12.3 oz | 1.53 | 726 mL |
What changes how much a cat drinks
- Diet. Wet food is about 75-80% water. A cat eating only wet food may get most of its water from food.
- Heat and exercise. Warm weather and play increase water needs.
- Age. Senior cats are prone to kidney disease, which increases thirst.
- Medicines. Steroids, diuretics and some seizure medicines increase thirst.
How much is too much?
Normal water intake for cats is roughly 20-70 mL per kg per day. Drinking more than about 100 mL per kg per day is generally considered excessive (polydipsia), and some vets use a lower cut-off of about 45 mL/kg for cats. Common causes include kidney disease, diabetes and an overactive thyroid. If your cat is suddenly drinking much more, measure a day's intake and see your vet.
Signs of dehydration
- Dry or sticky gums
- Skin that stays tented when gently pinched at the shoulders
- Sunken eyes and lethargy
- Dark yellow urine or less urine than usual
Dehydration with vomiting or diarrhea can become serious quickly, especially in kittens and older cats. Call your vet.
How to get your cat to drink more
- Feed wet food or add water to meals: it is the most effective way to increase intake.
- Try a pet water fountain; many cats prefer moving water.
- Use wide, shallow bowls and keep them away from the food and litter box.
- Place several water bowls around the house.
Frequently asked questions
How much water should a cat drink a day?
About 50 mL per kg of body weight including food moisture. A 10 lb cat on dry food may drink about 200-250 mL (about a cup) a day; on wet food, much less.
Is it normal for my cat not to drink water?
Cats on wet food can get most of their water from food and may rarely drink. A cat on dry food that never drinks, or that seems lethargic, should see a vet.
Why is my cat drinking so much water?
Increased thirst in cats is commonly caused by kidney disease, diabetes or hyperthyroidism, especially in older cats. See your vet.
Do cats prefer running water?
Many do. A fountain can increase intake, which is helpful for cats prone to urinary problems.