- Water Quality: The quality of the water itself can be a determining factor in a cats willingness to drink. Cats can be sensitive to chemical additives or impurities in tap water, making them more selective about the water they consume.
2 weeks ago - Hi Rita, I have an 18 month old and very healthy & strong cat who is obsessed with water and other fluids. Though we managed to teach him not to jump on the table, he keeps jumping on the kitchen sink as soon as we turn on the tap. If hes been home alone, he will angle out the metal covers of the drains from sink, shower and wash basin.
Some cats go out of their way to sit by bathroom or kitchen taps, waiting patiently for someone to turn them on. They might stick their paw into the stream, dip their head under, or try to lap up water mid-flow. Its part curiosity, part instinct. Running water signals that the water is fresh and safe, especially compared to still water thats been sitting in their bowl all day. Running water not only appeals to a cats natural preferences but can also encourage them to drink more.
As we can see from the illustration, Tap Water Inadvertently Influences Cat Behavior has many fascinating aspects to explore.
- Cats have a very good sense of smell. Tap water contains chemicals such as chlorine that can smell quite strong to a cats sensitive nose. This may put them off going near the water and drinking it too. If your cat doesnt like tap water, you could try offering them filtered water instead.
- Cats rely heavily on scent to navigate their worlddetecting pheromones, identifying territory, and even recognizing their humans. Water can disrupt all of that. Vonk notes that chemical cues in tap water may smell unpleasant to cats.
- Are cats afraid of water? Why do some cats use their paws to drink? How do you get a cat to drink more? The Cat Educator provides the answers and more!
