A healthy cat should drink about 50 to 70 milliliters (ml) of water per kilogram of body weight each day. For example, a 4 kg cat needs approximately 200 to 280 ml of water daily. Cats eating wet food get much of their water intake from the moisture in the food, while cats on dry food need to drink more water to compensate. Typically, cats drink small amounts multiple times throughout the day rather than a large amount at once. Here are key points:
- Fluid intake recommendation: roughly 50-70 ml per kg of body weight per day.
- A 4 kg cat should consume about 200-280 ml daily.
- Wet food contains about 80% moisture, so cats eating wet food may drink less water.
- Dry food contains about 8-10% moisture, so cats on dry food require more drinking water.
- Increased or decreased drinking can indicate health problems and should prompt a vet visit.
This range is consistent across several veterinary sources and pet care experts.
