I never thought about water until Mochi got a UTI. Then I learned that cats are basically desert creatures who evolved to get most of their water from food. And dry kibble is the opposite of that.
Why Water Matters So Much
Dehydration in pets can cause:
- β’ Kidney problems (especially in cats)
- β’ Urinary tract infections
- β’ Constipation
- β’ Lethargy and weakness
- β’ In severe cases: organ failure
β οΈ Warning: Signs of dehydration include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and skin that doesn't bounce back when you pinch it. If you see these, call your vet.
How Much Should They Drink?
General rule: 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight for dogs, a bit less for cats.
But that's just a starting point. Factors that increase water needs:
- β’ Hot weather / exercise
- β’ Dry kibble diet (vs wet food)
- β’ Illness or recovery
- β’ Medications
How I Got Mochi to Drink More
She wouldn't. For months. I tried everything:
- β’ Multiple water bowls (didn't care)
- β’ Fountain (she looked at it like it was cursed)
- β’ Ice cubes (interested for 5 seconds)
What actually worked: wet food. Adding a can of wet food to her diet increased her water intake by 40%. Vet-approved. Cheap. Effective.
Gus just... drinks. He doesn't need tricks. But Mochi is a project.
The Bottom Line
Track their water intake for a few days. If they're drinking way less than the calculation says they should, make changes. Wet food, more bowls, fountains, whatever works.
Your pet's kidneys will thank you in 10 years.
