Mary Allen
Not only do we humans, but also cats have to drink enough water regularly. However, many pet owners are unsure whether simple tap water is really suitable for their furry darlings. Is the cool water from the tap harmless? Or should it only go into the drinking bowl in a boiled or filtered state?
In short: tap water does not harm cats. Only good water quality has to be guaranteed in order to spare the house tiger stomach upsets, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Tap Water for Cats: Question of Where You Live
In general, the water quality depends on where you live. If the tap water in your area is heavily polluted, contains limescale, or is enriched with many additives such as fluoride, it is worth using products such as mineral water.
If this is not the case, normal tap water will suffice. As a rule of thumb: if you can tolerate tap water, your cat can also enjoy it. If in doubt, you should consult your responsible waterworks.
How Often Should You Change the Drinking Water?
In order to permanently maintain the high quality, the drinking water should be replaced with fresh tap water several times a day. In summer, when it’s hot, the water spoils faster – then it’s advisable to change it about every three hours.
Ideally, you should choose an easy-care container made of stainless steel or ceramic as a drinking bowl. Place the bowl a few meters away from the feeding bowl. Also, clean the drinking and feeding bowl regularly and thoroughly. Make sure that the drinking bowl is always full so that your furry friend always has fresh water at their disposal.
Encourage Cats to Drink
Cats are often lazier about drinking than other pets. Even when cats aren’t sweating, they desperately need the water. It helps them control their body temperature. Even a loss of fluids of ten to 15 percent spread over the day can damage the velvet paw’s health and, in the worst case, even lead to the death of the animal.
It is therefore the responsibility of the cat owner to get his fur nose to drink. A stable indoor fountain can be useful here. A gently rippling water feature almost magically attracts cats and often tempts them to take a sip or two. Ideally, you should also distribute a few bowls of water throughout the apartment.
Tips for Descaling Cat Fountains
Nevertheless, the water quality must also be right for the cat fountain. That’s why the same applies to the bowl: changing the water and cleaning it regularly is a must. In order for the water from the well to be compatible with the house tiger, tap water must of course be used. However, the pipes inside the water feature can become calcified over time if you do not use a descaler from time to time. But beware: make sure that it is a biological, non-toxic agent and rinse the fountain thoroughly after use.