Cat owners know that cats can be finicky when it comes to drinking water, or maybe your cat is just plain bored with water. Sometimes it may seem the only source of hydration your cat receives is from the moisture content in wet canned cat food. If your cat doesn’t seem to have a desire for water, can a cat drink something else besides water? Luckily, there are alternatives you can try that should entice your kitty to drink.
In this guide, we’ll list the alternatives that are safe and worth giving a whirl. Let’s find out what they are.
The 3 Alternatives to Water That Cats Can Drink
1. Cat Milk
Some of you may raise your eyebrows in skepticism on this one, but cats can drink lactose-free cat milk. Adult cats are actually lactose intolerant, and drinking cow’s milk, plant milk, or any other type of milk can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Kittens secrete the lactase enzyme that allows them to digest lactase and drink their mother’s milk, but this enzyme’s production stops after a few months of life, which is why adult cats cannot digest milk. On the other hand, although cat’s milk may not contain lactose, it’s high in fat and calories and should only be given as a treat.
2. Broth
Cats are obligate carnivores and require meat in their diets. Since broth comes from some type of protein, odds are your cat will lap it up. You can make your own broth by boiling and simmering chicken bones or some other suitable meat, such as rib bones or marrow bones—just be sure to omit harmful seasonings like salt, pepper, onion, or garlic. Strain and remove any bone, as cooked bones should never be offered to your cat.
If you’re pressed for time, you can always purchase broths that come in many yummy flavors like salmon, chicken, and duck. Just make sure you double-check the ingredient list before offering any commercially-available bone broth to your cat. Alternatively, look into purchasing broths made specifically for pets. Broth is an excellent option to add to your cat’s regular dry food for added moisture and flavor enhacement.
3. Fish Soup
What cat doesn’t like fish? Better yet, what cat wouldn’t like fish soup? Similar to bone broth, fish soup can hydrate your kitty and provide nutrients at the same time, such as omega fatty acids. For the preparation, choose any fish that is not on the high mercury list; salmon would be a great option. Fish soup is low in carbs and high in protein, making it an ideal tasty treat. Ensure you skip any added oils or spices such as garlic or onion in the preparation. And of course, you should know that this option is not suitable for cats who are allergic to fish.
What Not to Give Your Cat as an Alternative to Water
Now that we know what alternatives to water cats can safely have, what should they not have? Here are liquids to avoid giving your kitty.
1. Alcohol
Alcohol is an absolute no-no for cats. Alcohol is dehydrating and can make your cat very sick; it’s a no-brainer that you should never give your cat alcohol for any reason.
2. Caffeine
Cats cannot process caffeine, and not to mention, it can be toxic to your cat. Caffeine can cause an increase in blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias, and even tremors and seizures. Caffeine can also cause vomiting and diarrhea in your cat.
3. Juices & Sugary Drinks
You may have run across sources claiming it’s ok to give your cat apple juice, but apple juice is high in sugar and can lead to obesity. We recommend avoiding apple juice or any type of juice or carbonated drinks. They hold no nutritional value and can make your cat obese or sick.
Conclusion
Even though these alternatives to water are safe for your cat, you should only give them in moderation. The best way to keep your kitty hydrated is by encouraging him to drink fresh water. Offering wet cat food is another option to help keep your kitty hydrated due to the moisture content, but this option may not be enough. Try placing water bowls with fresh water in every room.
If that doesn’t work, try different bowls in case your cat is picky and doesn’t like the water bowl. You can also purchase a cat water fountain. The flowing water from these fountains may pique your kitty’s interest and entice him to drink.
Related Reads:
- Can Cats Drink Oat Milk? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Tips
- My Cat Drank Coffee! Vet-Approved Advice on What to Do
- Can Cats a Drink Gatorade? Vet-Reviewed Facts
Featured Image Credit: AnnaStills, Shutterstock
