The Winter Hydration Guide Every Cat Owner Should Read
Introduction Winter is associated with warm beverages, comfy blankets, and a desire to stay at home. Our cat buddies experience seasonal changes as we do, yet they cannot inform us when they are unwell. Most cat owners are unaware that cats consume less water during winter, and this can lead to dehydration or urinary issues. Cats are not known to consume a lot of water. They don’t like cold water when it is cold, and they tend to eat less. That’s why it is important to keepcats hydrated in winter, even if they don’t show any clear signs of being thirsty. A few changes to their routine can make a big difference. The Reason Why Cats Do Not Drink a Lot of Water in Winter When the temperature drops, you might notice your cat drinking less water, and that’s completely normal. Cats are desert animals by nature, and they often rely more on food than water to stay hydrated. In winter, water in bowls can become too cold or unappealing, and your cat may also eat less, especially if they’re less active. Cold weather can dry out their skin and coat, too, making proper hydration even more important, even if your cat doesn’t seem interested in drinking. These are the tips to keep cats hydrated during winter: 1. Offer hot and wet foodstuffs Warm, moist food is an excellent method to keep cats hydrated. Wet food is already rich in water (approximately 70-80 percent), and your cat will be hydrated. In the winter, warm up their food before serving. This makes it smell nicer and more attractive in cold and dry air. One can microwave the food for a few seconds to see its temperature; it should not be hot. You can get help on how to feed a cat wet food here. In case your cat consumes dry kibble, you can add warm water or broth to make it wetter and tastier. 2. Place water bowls in warm places Cats are picky about where and how they drink. When their water bowl is placed next to a drafty window, cold floor, or loud place, they do not use it at all. During winter, you can put bowls in warmer and quieter areas of the house, such as close to their bed or favorite resting areas. It is also advisable to use wide shallow bowls that are ceramic or stainless steel because they maintain fresh water and do not absorb odors. 3. Encourage drinking with a water fountain Still water can become unappealing to cats, especially in winter. A pet water fountain can assist there. Running water remains fresh, oxygenated, and only a bit warmer than still water. And a lot of cats are naturally attracted to the sound and motion of running water- it appeals to their wild nature. Drinking water can be more exciting and more frequent, which your cat needs in the cold season, with the help of a fountain. 4. Include Low-Sodium broth in their diet …
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