What’s the idea behind a water fountain?
We’ve been told that if water is moving, cats are more likely to drink it. And it’s probably because cats find it entertaining to watch the water move. (Especially after eating catnip.)
The bubbling water also introduces some air, so it may change the flavor a little bit.
And most of these little fountains actually have a filter. So it’s highly filtered water.
So there are lots of reasons fountains make water taste better for a cat…But let’s talk about the real issue here.
The issue is about cats needing water.
And how much water they need.
Cats who eat dry cat food need excessive amounts of water because dry cat food is:well first, dry of course and second, loaded with salt to convince the cat to drink extra water. It’s a double whammy.
And anybody who has had cats for a period of time understands that kidney failure is a very common issue in cats. A lot of it’s because they don’t drink enough water. So the water fountain manufacturers found an opportunity to sell more fountains to cat owners. That’s great. But ultimately the problem goes back to the food. Cats should not be eating dry food. There is absolutely no reason. Period.
Cats eat dry food because it’s convenient for us humans. Because the kibble companies make a ton of money recycling garbage and calling it cat food. And ultimately these cats get hooked on junk food and it’s next to impossible to get cats to eat healthy food once they’ve been addicted to kibble.
So if you feel like your cat doesn’t drink enough water. Or maybe you’ve been told that your cat needs water because the kidney numbers are slightly elevated in the bloodwork. Let’s look at the basis. Is it because your cat doesn’t have a water fountain? Or is it because your cat is eating kibble and should be eating real meat? (Cooked or raw, doesn’t matter to me – needs to be real food – ‘cuz cats are our kids and they shouldn’t eat garbage.)
This post is not about what that meat-based diet should look like. This post is about water fountains.
Still seeing patients in Tampa, Clearwater, and virtually.