Hoeveel water drinkt een kat per dag?
Cats are true hydration mysteries: they often drink little and hide it when something is wrong. Yet, sufficient water is crucial for healthy kidneys and bladder. But how much water should a cat actually drink per day? We list the figures and the signs.
By the SmartPaw editorial team · Published on July 6, 2026 · Last updated on July 6, 2026 · Facts checked by veterinarians and official sources.
📌 In brief
- A healthy cat drinks about 40 to 60 ml of water per kg of body weight per day.
- For a 4 kg cat, this amounts to around 160–240 ml per day (including moisture from food).
- Cats on wet food drink less, as wet food contains ~80% moisture.
- Suddenly drinking much more or less can indicate a problem – consult your vet.
- A drinking fountain encourages cats to drink more often and more.
How much water does a cat need per day?
A healthy cat needs approximately 40 to 60 ml of fluid per kilogram of body weight daily. For an average house cat of 4 to 5 kg, this amounts to about 200 to 250 ml per day. Important: this is the total fluid requirement, including the fluid your cat gets from its food.
Why does one cat drink more than another?
That mainly depends on diet, temperature, and activity. A cat that primarily eats dry food will need to drink much more than a cat on wet food, which already consists of about 80% water. Warm weather, playing a lot, and age also play a role.
| Cat's weight | Fluid requirement per day |
|---|---|
| 3 kg | ~120–180 ml |
| 4 kg | ~160–240 ml |
| 5 kg | ~200–300 ml |
| 6 kg | ~240–360 ml |
How do I know if my cat is drinking too little?
Look for signs such as a dry nose and gums, lethargy, concentrated (dark) urine, and few urinations in the litter box. A handy test is the skin tent test: gently pull up the skin on the neck; if it returns slowly, your cat might be dehydrated.
⚠️ Watch out for sudden changes
Is your cat suddenly drinking much more or much less? This can indicate kidney problems, diabetes, or a bladder infection. Always contact your vet if in doubt.
How do I get my cat to drink more?
Offer fresh, running water and place multiple water bowls throughout the house. Cats naturally prefer to drink from moving water, far from their food and litter box. A drinking fountain filters the water, keeps it fresh, and encourages your cat to drink more often – often the difference between too little and enough.
HydroBuddy Drinking Fountain 4L (Stainless Steel)
Continuously flowing, filtered water that encourages your cat to drink more. Stainless steel, large 4L capacity, and trackable via the app.
View product →💡 Tip: Place the water bowl or fountain at least one meter away from the food bowl and litter box. Cats instinctively avoid water near their food or toilet.
Frequently asked questions
How much water does a 4 kg cat drink per day?
Approximately 160 to 240 ml per day, including moisture from food. If your cat mainly eats wet food, it will visibly drink less water.
Is it bad if my cat drinks little?
If your cat eats wet food and is otherwise healthy and active, drinking little may not be a problem. With dry food, additional drinking is important.
Why does my cat prefer to drink from the tap?
Running water is fresher and moves, which cats instinctively find more appealing. A drinking fountain mimics this.
When should I go to the vet?
With sudden much more or less drinking, weight loss, vomiting, or changed urination behavior. Don't wait too long.
Do you want to delve deeper into the signs? Then read 5 signs that your cat is drinking too little and discover why cats are so fond of running water.
Sources: Veterinary practice Deurze-Smilde-Assen (how much should a cat drink), Prins Petfoods (how much does a cat drink).
This blog is informative and does not replace veterinary advice.
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