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why do cats need water
Water is essential for cats to live. More than 60% of a cat's body is made up of water, and they need water to excrete waste products produced by their metabolism. In addition, water is also involved in the regulation of body temperature in cats.
Wild cats replenish their water intake primarily from prey. However, cats kept as pets cannot replenish sufficient water with just the water ingested from food.
Risks if your cat doesn't drink enough water
Dehydration can occur if your cat does not consume enough fluids. Dehydration impairs many bodily functions due to lack of water in the body. Cats need more water, especially if they have symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, or during hot weather.
Prolonged dehydration can also adversely affect kidney function. Kidneys play an important role in removing waste products, and kidney damage from dehydration can have a negative impact on your cat's health.
How to get the amount of water you need
1. Always prepare water
It's important to always have a bowl of water available so your cat always has water to drink. It is important to place the bowl in a place that is easy for your cat to drink from. Also, it is important to change the water regularly.
2. Give watery food
Giving your cat a high-moisture diet, such as canned food or wet food, is another way for your cat to stay hydrated. However, it is necessary to have water available at all times, as it may not be possible to obtain sufficient fluids through food alone.
3. Prepare water that is easy to drink
Cats are sensitive to the taste and temperature of water. Therefore, it is better to prepare water that is easy for cats to drink, such as filtered water or mineral water rather than tap water. It's also a good idea to have water warmed to room temperature, as cats may avoid drinking if the water is too cold.
4. Use a water dispenser
By using a waterer, you can create an environment where your cat can drink water freely. There are various types of water dispensers, such as those that automatically replenish water, and those that provide clean water through a filter.
summary
Water is essential for cats to stay healthy. If your cat doesn't get enough fluids, it can become dehydrated, which can have a negative impact on its health. To ensure your cat is getting enough water, it is important to always have water available and provide it with water that is easy to drink. Giving food that contains a lot of water is also an effective method. Make sure your cat is well hydrated to keep them healthy.