When it comes to your cat’s health and wellness, one of the most important factors—often overlooked—is hydration. While many pet parents focus on nutrition, proper hydration is key to keeping your cat’s body functioning at its best. This month, we’re diving into why hydration matters so much for our feline friends and how you can make sure your cat stays properly hydrated.

Why is Hydration Important for Cats?

Cats evolved as desert animals, which means they’re built to get most of their hydration from their food—like the moisture found in prey animals such as mice. But these days, most cats eat a prepared food diet, often lacking the moisture their bodies naturally crave. While cats do drink water, they’re surprisingly inefficient at it. On average, your cat’s tongue only picks up a drop or two of water per lick. That means it takes a lot of licks to keep your cat properly hydrated.

This inefficiency can lead to a number of health issues, including urinary tract problems and kidney disease, both of which are often linked to dehydration. That’s why it’s so crucial to make sure your cat is getting moisture from the most effective source: their food.

Cats Need Hydration from Their Food

Let’s talk about intracellular moisture—this is the moisture found inside the cells of plants and animals. It’s the most natural and effective way for cats (and dogs) to absorb moisture, helping to keep their digestive system running smoothly. Since cats are so bad at drinking enough water, they rely on food to get the hydration they need.

Intracellular moisture is particularly important for cats because it provides moisture directly from their food, making it more usable by their bodies. This is why choosing the right kind of food, rich in natural moisture, is essential for your cat’s overall health.

Types of Food and Their Moisture Content

Here’s a breakdown of different types of cat food and how much moisture they contain:

  • Kibble: With a maximum of 10% moisture, kibble can actually dehydrate your cat. This lack of moisture can contribute to urinary and kidney issues over time, no matter how much water they drink separately.

  • Wet/Canned Food: Canned food contains around 75-80% moisture. Some of this moisture comes from meat, while the rest is often added through broths or water, making it a great source of hydration.

  • Gently Cooked Food: Lightly cooked to preserve nutrients, gently cooked food contains about 66-70% moisture. It has a “stew-like” texture and provides hydration from both the food itself and sometimes added broth.

  • Raw Food: Raw diets offer around 75-80% moisture, similar to canned food. However, all the moisture in raw food comes from the food itself, without added water or broth.

  • Toppers: Toppers like bone broth or raw goat’s milk can be a fantastic way to boost your cat’s hydration. These toppers are loaded with moisture, typically containing 85-96%, making them an excellent addition to any meal.

As you can see, kibble has the lowest moisture content, which is why cats fed a kibble-only diet are often at risk of dehydration and the health problems that follow. Ideally, most of your cat’s diet should consist of wet, canned, or raw food to keep them well-hydrated and healthy.

If you're thinking about incorporating more moisture-rich foods into your cat's daily routine, you're on the right track! Up next, we’ll show you how to smoothly transition your cat to these more hydrating options.

How to Introduce a New Food to Your Cat

Transitioning your cat to a new food can feel like a battle, but with a little patience and a few tricks, it’s possible to help your feline enjoy a healthier, more varied diet. Cats are notoriously picky eaters, and if your cat readily tries new foods, you’re one of the lucky few! But there’s a reason why many cats are so hesitant about new foods—they’re what’s known as "imprint eaters."

Why Are Cats Picky?

“Imprint eating” means that the types of food your cat first eats after weaning are imprinted in their brains as safe and familiar. New or unfamiliar foods may be flagged as unsafe, making transitions tricky. The good news? With some creativity and a gradual approach, you can help your cat adjust to new foods while ensuring they stay healthy.

Tips for Introducing New Foods

While this process can take time and might involve experimenting with different foods, don’t worry—trying small portions and keeping things fresh will help reduce waste. All canned, gently cooked, or raw foods should be in the fridge for a maximum of 3 days. Remember, never attempt the “waiting them out” method, where you wait until your cat gets hungry enough to eat - even for overweight kitties! Cats who don’t eat for even short periods can develop fatty liver disease, a life-threatening condition, so always prioritize their health. Here's how you can start:

Start Small:

  • Place a little of the new food on top of your cat’s current food.
  • Place a small portion of the new food next to your cat’s current food in the same bowl or on a separate plate.
  • Mix a little of the new food into the existing food—just enough to familiarize them with the taste without overwhelming them.

Gradual Transition:

  • Feed half of your cat’s current food, then offer a small portion of the new food. This will allow your cat to enjoy its regular meal first and be open to sampling the new one.
  • Serve the new food in a separate bowl next to their regular meal to encourage curiosity without pressure.

Creative Locations:

  • Place some of the new food somewhere unexpected, like on top of a cat tree or a coffee table. Some cats enjoy hunting or discovering food in new spots, which can make the experience more fun.

Be Persistent:

  • If your cat has only eaten one food for years, it will take time for them to see the new food as something edible. Present a small teaspoon or tablespoon of the new food daily, even if they don’t eat it immediately. Consistency is key.

Kibble to Raw Transitions:

  • While some cats adapt quickly, most need time to warm up to raw food. Start with bone broth or wet food toppers, then move to gently cooked food, followed by freeze-dried raw, and eventually, raw food itself. This step-by-step approach helps your cat adjust to new textures and flavors over time.

Additional Tips and Tricks:

  • Slowly warm up the food: Warming the new food just above room temperature enhances its aroma and may make it more appealing to your cat.
  • Flavors and textures matter: Cats often prefer certain textures. Try experimenting with pate, shreds, chunks, or bits to see which ones your cat enjoys most.
  • Use treat toppers: If your cat has a favorite treat, sprinkle a small amount on top of the new food. This can entice them to try it.
  • Stick to a feeding schedule: Offer food at the same times each day. Cats are creatures of habit, and a routine can help them feel more comfortable with new experiences.
  • Let your cat “steal” the food: Leave a small amount of the new food on the counter or near areas where your cat usually gets treats, and then walk away for 10-15 minutes. Cats are naturally curious - some may be more inclined to try the new food when they think they’re sneaking it on their own terms!
  • Reward positive behavior: If your cat sniffs or licks the new food, praise them or offer a little extra attention. Positive reinforcement encourages them to associate the new food with a good experience.
  • Try different proteins: If one protein source (like chicken or fish) isn’t working, try another. Cats often have specific preferences, and offering variety can help.
  • Keep an eye on behavior: If your cat is stressed or refuses food for several days, revert to their previous diet and restart the process more gradually.
  • Hydration boost: Transitioning to wet or raw food provides an added bonus—hydration! Most cats don’t drink enough water, so increasing their moisture intake through food can help keep them healthy.

Remember, patience is key when introducing new foods to your cat. Every cat is different, so it’s essential to find the method that works best for your feline friend. With persistence, understanding, creativity, and the right approach, you’ll be on your way to helping your cat enjoy a balanced, nutritious diet in no time!