Choosing the best cat food means balancing wet and dry options for hydration and dental health. Look for brands with real meat as the first ingredient, AAFCO compliance, and a history of few recalls. Always check for current recalls and consult your vet for personalized advice.

Picking the right food for your cat can feel overwhelming. With so many choices—wet, dry, grain-free, limited ingredient—it’s easy to get confused. You want the best for your furry friend, but how do you know what’s truly healthy? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. This guide will cut through the noise, helping you understand the pros and cons of different food types, identify top brands, stay informed about recalls, and answer your most common questions. Let’s make feeding your cat simple and stress-free.

Complete Guide to Cat Food: Wet vs. Dry, Best Brands, Recalls & FAQs

Feeding your cat is one of the most important ways you show your love and care. Just like humans, cats need a balanced diet to thrive. But unlike us, their nutritional needs are quite specific. Understanding these needs is the first step to choosing the best food for your feline companion.

Understanding Your Cat’s Unique Nutritional Needs

Cats are not small dogs; they have distinct dietary requirements. They are obligate carnivores. This means their bodies are designed to get nutrients primarily from animal sources. They cannot thrive on a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Key Nutritional Requirements for Cats:

High Protein: Cats need a diet rich in animal-based protein to maintain muscle mass, support organ function, and provide energy. Their bodies are less efficient at converting plant proteins.
Moderate Fat: Fats are a concentrated source of energy and provide essential fatty acids for skin, coat, and overall health.
Low Carbohydrates: While cats can digest some carbohydrates, they don’t have a high dietary requirement for them. Diets high in carbs can contribute to obesity and other health issues.
Essential Amino Acids: Taurine is perhaps the most famous example. Cats cannot synthesize taurine, so it must be supplied through their diet, almost exclusively from animal tissue. A deficiency can lead to serious heart problems (dilated cardiomyopathy) and blindness. Arginine, another essential amino acid, is also crucial.
Vitamins and Minerals: Cats need specific vitamins like Vitamin A (preformed, from animal sources), Niacin, and various B vitamins, as well as minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, in appropriate ratios.
Water: Often overlooked, water is critical for every bodily function, especially kidney and urinary tract health. Cats naturally have a low thirst drive, which makes dietary moisture even more important.

When selecting cat food, always look for products that meet these fundamental requirements. The first ingredient should ideally be a named meat source (e.g., “chicken,” “salmon,” “turkey”), not a vague “meat” or a plant-based ingredient.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: The Great Debate

This is perhaps the most common question cat owners face. Both wet and dry foods have their advantages and disadvantages. Many experts and veterinarians recommend a combination of both, or primarily wet food, due to the crucial role of moisture.

Wet Cat Food (Canned, Pouches)

Wet food typically contains 70-80% water. This high moisture content is its biggest advantage.

Pros of Wet Food:

Excellent Hydration: Helps prevent dehydration, which is vital for kidney and urinary tract health. Cats are prone to conditions like urinary crystals and kidney disease, and adequate water intake is a major preventative measure.
Higher Protein, Lower Carbs: Generally formulated with more meat and fewer fillers, making them closer to a cat’s natural diet.
Highly Palatable: The aroma and texture often make it more appealing to picky eaters.
Portion Control: Easier to portion out specific amounts, which can help with weight management.

Cons of Wet Food:

More Expensive: Per serving, wet food usually costs more than dry kibble.
Shorter Shelf Life: Once opened, it needs to be refrigerated and typically consumed within 24-48 hours.
Dental Health: Does not provide the abrasive action that some dry kibbles claim to offer for dental cleaning. Regular dental care (brushing, dental treats) is still necessary.
Messier: Can be messier to serve and clean up.

Dry Cat Food (Kibble)

Dry food contains much less moisture, typically 5-10%. It’s a convenient and cost-effective option for many cat owners.

Pros of Dry Food:

Convenience: Easy to store, serve, and doesn’t spoil quickly when left out.
Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper per serving than wet food.
Dental Benefits: Some specially formulated kibbles can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through their abrasive texture. However, this is not a substitute for professional dental care.
Free-Feeding Option: Can be left out for cats to graze throughout the day, which suits some cats’ natural eating patterns (though controlled feeding is often recommended for weight management).

Cons of Dry Food:

Low Moisture Content: Can contribute to chronic dehydration if not supplemented with other water sources, potentially leading to urinary tract issues and kidney strain.
Higher Carbohydrates: Often contains more carbohydrates (grains, starches) as binders, which are not ideal for obligate carnivores.
Less Palatable: Some cats find dry food less appealing than wet food.
Risk of Obesity: Free-feeding dry food can easily lead to overconsumption and weight gain.

The Verdict: A Balanced Approach

Many veterinarians and feline nutritionists advocate for a diet that is at least primarily wet food, supplemented with fresh water from multiple sources. A mixed diet, offering both wet and dry food, can provide the best of both worlds:

Wet food for hydration and higher protein.
Dry food for convenience, cost-effectiveness, and potential dental benefits (if a dental-specific kibble is chosen).

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your cat’s individual needs, health conditions, preferences, and your budget. Always ensure your cat has access to plenty of fresh water, regardless of their food type.

Table 1: Wet vs. Dry Cat Food Comparison

Feature	Wet Cat Food	Dry Cat Food
Moisture Content	High (70-80%)	Low (5-10%)
Protein Level (Typical)	Generally higher (on a dry matter basis)	Variable, often lower than wet
Carbohydrate Level (Typical)	Generally lower	Generally higher (due to binders)
Cost	More expensive per serving	Less expensive per serving
Hydration Benefits	Excellent, supports kidney/urinary health	Minimal, requires additional water sources
Dental Benefits	None directly; requires separate dental care	Some specific kibbles can help reduce plaque
Convenience	Shorter shelf life once opened, requires refrigeration	Long shelf life, easy to store and serve
Palatability	Often very high due to aroma and texture	Can be less appealing to some cats
Weight Management	Easier portion control	Risk of overfeeding if free-fed

What to Look For in Quality Cat Food: Ingredients & Labels

Deciphering cat food labels can feel like reading a foreign language. Knowing what to look for, and what to avoid, is crucial for making an informed decision about your cat’s diet.

The AAFCO Statement: Your First Checkpoint

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets standards for pet food in the United States. A food label should always include an AAFCO statement. Look for one of these phrases:

“[Product Name] is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for [Life Stage].” This means the food’s recipe was designed to meet AAFCO’s guidelines.
“Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that [Product Name] provides complete and balanced nutrition for [Life Stage].” This indicates the food has undergone feeding trials, which is generally considered a higher standard.

The “Life Stage” will specify if it’s for “all life stages,” “growth and reproduction” (kittens and pregnant/nursing queens), or “adult maintenance.” Ensure the food is appropriate for your cat’s current life stage.

Top Ingredients to Look For:

The ingredient list is ordered by weight. The first few ingredients are the most important.

Named Animal Protein Source: The first ingredient should be a named meat, poultry, or fish (e.g., chicken, salmon, turkey, beef, lamb). This indicates a high-quality protein source.
Meat Meal: Don’t be afraid of “chicken meal,” “salmon meal,” etc. These are concentrated forms of meat where most of the water has been removed, making them a potent source of protein. They can be very good ingredients.
Animal By-Products: While the term “by-product” sounds unappetizing to humans, these can be nutritious for cats. They include organs (liver, kidney, heart), which are packed with vitamins and minerals that cats would naturally consume in the wild. The key is that they should be from a named animal source (e.g., “chicken by-product meal”), not just “meat by-products.”
Healthy Fats: Look for named animal fats (chicken fat) or fish oils (salmon oil) which provide essential fatty acids like Omega-3s.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals: These are usually listed towards the end but are crucial for a complete and balanced diet.

Ingredients to Approach with Caution or Avoid:

Vague Meat Sources: “Meat,” “animal fat,” or “poultry by-products” without a specific animal name. These are often lower quality and inconsistent.
Excessive Fillers: Large amounts of corn, wheat, soy, or rice as primary ingredients, especially if they are among the first few listed. While some carbohydrates are present, they shouldn’t dominate the ingredient list.
Artificial Colors, Flavors, and Preservatives: Ingredients like BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin, artificial dyes (Blue 2, Red 40, Yellow 5/6) offer no nutritional value and can be linked to health issues. Natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E) and rosemary extract are preferable.
Sweeteners: Sugar, corn syrup, or other sweeteners are unnecessary and unhealthy for cats.

Guaranteed Analysis:

This section lists the minimum percentages of crude protein and fat, and maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture. While useful, remember these are minimums/maximums, and the quality of ingredients behind these numbers is more important than just the percentages alone. For comparing wet and dry foods, it’s often helpful to convert to a “dry matter basis” to get an accurate comparison of nutrient levels.

Top Cat Food Brands: Our Recommendations

Choosing a brand can be daunting, as the market is flooded with options. Here are some highly-regarded brands known for their quality ingredients, commitment to research, and generally positive track records. Remember, the “best” brand is ultimately the one that meets your individual cat’s specific health needs and preferences, in consultation with your veterinarian.

Premium & High-Quality Brands (Often Grain-Free or Limited Ingredient):

Orijen / Acana: Known for their “biologically appropriate” philosophy, using high inclusions of fresh and raw animal ingredients, often regionally sourced. Mimics a cat’s natural diet.
Stella & Chewy’s: Focuses on raw and freeze-dried raw diets, which can be excellent for digestion and palatability. Also offers gently cooked and wet options.
Instinct by Nature’s Variety: Offers raw, freeze-dried raw, and kibble options with a strong emphasis on animal protein and whole foods.
Merrick: Known for high-quality, real deboned meat as the first ingredient, and no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Offers both wet and dry formulas.
Wellness Pet Food: Provides a wide range of natural cat foods, including grain-free and limited ingredient options, with a focus on whole foods and balanced nutrition.

Reputable & Widely Available Brands (Often include grain-inclusive options):

Purina Pro Plan: While a large brand, their Pro Plan line is highly regarded by many veterinarians. They invest heavily in research and development, offering specialized formulas for various life stages and health conditions.
Royal Canin: Another large brand with extensive research, Royal Canin offers highly specific formulas for breed sizes, specific health issues (e.g., urinary, digestive), and life stages. Often prescribed by vets.
Hill’s Science Diet: Similar to Royal Canin, Hill’s is a veterinary-backed brand with a focus on scientific research and targeted nutrition for different health needs.
Blue Buffalo: Popular for its emphasis on real meat, fruits, and vegetables, and avoidance of corn, wheat, soy, and artificial ingredients. Offers various lines like Wilderness (high protein) and Basics (limited ingredient).

It’s important to note that even within these reputable brands, specific formulas can vary. Always check the ingredient list and AAFCO statement for the particular product you’re considering.

Table 2: Recommended Cat Food Brands & Key Features

Brand Name	Key Features	Typical Offerings	Consider For
Orijen / Acana	High animal protein, biologically appropriate, fresh/raw ingredients, grain-free.	Dry kibble, freeze-dried treats.	Cats needing high protein, mimicking natural diet.
Stella & Chewy’s	Focus on raw/freeze-dried raw, minimal processing, high palatability.	Freeze-dried raw, wet food, gently cooked.	Picky eaters, digestive sensitivities, those seeking raw diet benefits.
Instinct by Nature’s Variety	Real meat first, raw boosted kibble, grain-free options.	Dry kibble, wet food, raw toppers.	Balanced nutrition with raw inclusion, various formulas.
Merrick	Deboned meat first, whole foods, no artificial ingredients.	Dry kibble, wet food, limited ingredient options.	General health, sensitivities, quality ingredients.
Wellness Pet Food	Natural ingredients, no artificial preservatives/colors, various lines for specific needs.	Dry kibble, wet food (pate, shreds), core, grain-free, complete health.	Overall wellness, sensitive stomachs, diverse texture preferences.
Purina Pro Plan	Science-backed, extensive research, specialized formulas for life stages and conditions.	Dry kibble, wet food, veterinary diets.	Targeted nutrition, specific health concerns, widely available.
Royal Canin	Highly specialized formulas for breeds, health conditions, and life stages. Vet-recommended.	Dry kibble, wet food, prescription diets.	Specific breed needs, medical conditions (e.g., urinary, renal).
Hill’s Science Diet	Veterinary-backed, science-driven, focus on therapeutic diets and everyday health.	Dry kibble, wet food, prescription diets.	General wellness, specific health issues, weight management.
Blue Buffalo	Real meat first, no corn/wheat/soy/by-products, natural ingredients.	Dry kibble (various lines), wet food, treats.	Natural ingredients focus, high protein options.

Navigating Cat Food Recalls: Stay Informed

Pet food recalls, while unsettling, are a crucial part of ensuring product safety. They happen for various reasons, from contamination to nutrient imbalances or mislabeling. Knowing how to stay informed and what to do is vital.

Why Do Recalls Happen?

Bacterial Contamination: Most commonly, this involves Salmonella or Listeria, which can cause illness in both pets and humans handling the food.
Nutrient Imbalance: Too much or too little of an essential vitamin or mineral can lead to serious health issues over time. For example, a taurine deficiency can cause heart problems.
Foreign Objects: Pieces of plastic, metal, or other non-food items accidentally entering the manufacturing process.
Drug Contamination: Rarely, but serious, contamination with euthanasia drugs or other harmful substances.
Mold or Toxins: Aflatoxins from mold can be highly toxic to pets.
Mislabeling: Incorrect ingredient lists or allergen warnings.

How to Stay Informed About Recalls:

Proactive monitoring is the best defense:

FDA Website: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains a comprehensive list of pet food recalls and withdrawals. Check it regularly.
Brand Websites: Reputable pet food companies will post recall information prominently on their websites. Consider signing up for their email newsletters for direct alerts.
Pet News Sites & Social Media: Many pet-focused news outlets and consumer advocacy groups (e.g., PetFoodIndustry.com, Dog Food Advisor, Petful) track and report on recalls. Follow them on social media for timely updates.
Veterinarian’s Office: Your vet’s office often receives alerts about widespread recalls. They can also advise on specific concerns.
Sign Up for Alerts: Some government agencies or third-party sites offer email or text alerts for pet food recalls.

What to Do if Your Cat’s Food is Recalled:

Stop Feeding Immediately: Do not feed your cat any more of the recalled product.
Check Lot Numbers: Recalls often affect specific lot numbers or “best by” dates. Check your bag/can against the recall notice to see if your product is affected.
Isolate and Secure: Place the affected food in a sealed bag or container to prevent further contact with pets or people.
Contact the Manufacturer: Follow the instructions in the recall notice for returns, refunds, or replacements. They will typically provide a toll-free number or website.
Monitor Your Cat: Watch your cat closely for any signs of illness (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, changes in urination, etc.).
Contact Your Veterinarian: If your cat shows any symptoms of illness, contact your vet immediately and inform them about the recalled food. Even if your cat seems fine, it’s a good idea to inform your vet, especially if the recall is due to nutrient imbalances that might have long-term effects.
Wash and Sanitize: Thoroughly clean any food bowls, scoops, storage containers, and surfaces that came into contact with the recalled food.

Recalls are a part of consumer safety. While they can be concerning, they demonstrate a system in place to protect your pet. Staying informed and knowing how to react will help keep your feline friend safe and healthy.

Common Cat Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, cat owners can sometimes make feeding mistakes that impact their cat’s health. Avoiding these common pitfalls can significantly contribute to your cat’s well-being.

Overfeeding and Underfeeding:
- Mistake: Not measuring food, free-feeding dry kibble, or guessing portion sizes.
- Impact: Overfeeding leads to obesity, which increases risks of diabetes, arthritis, and other serious health issues. Underfeeding can lead to nutrient deficiencies and weight loss.
- Solution: Use a measuring cup or scale. Follow the feeding guidelines on the food packaging as a starting point, but adjust based on your cat’s activity level, age, and body condition score. Consult your vet for precise recommendations.
Ignoring Water Intake:
- Mistake: Only providing a single water bowl, not cleaning it regularly, or relying solely on dry food for hydration.
- Impact: Dehydration contributes to urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and constipation.
- Solution: Provide multiple water bowls in different locations. Use ceramic or stainless steel bowls. Consider a pet water fountain, as many cats prefer running water. Incorporate wet food into their diet.
Sudden Food Changes:
- Mistake: Switching your cat’s food abruptly to a new brand or formula.
- Impact: Can cause digestive upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
- Solution: Transition food gradually over 7-10 days (see Transitioning Cat Food section below).
Feeding Toxic Human Foods:
- Mistake: Sharing table scraps or intentionally feeding human foods that are harmful to cats.
- Impact: Can cause severe illness, organ damage, or even death.
- Solution: Educate yourself on foods toxic to cats (e.g., onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, alcohol, xylitol). Stick to cat-specific treats and food.
Not Considering Life Stage or Special Needs:
- Mistake: Feeding adult food to kittens, or general adult food to senior cats or those with health conditions.
- Impact: Kittens need more calories and specific nutrients for growth. Senior cats may need fewer calories and different nutrient balances. Cats with allergies, kidney disease, or urinary issues need specialized diets.
- Solution: Choose food appropriate for your cat’s age and health status. Consult your vet for advice on prescription diets or specific nutritional needs.
Neglecting Dental Health:
- Mistake: Assuming dry kibble alone is sufficient for dental cleaning, or ignoring signs of dental disease.
- Impact: Dental disease is very common in cats and can lead to pain, infection, and other systemic health problems.
- Solution: Incorporate regular dental care, such as brushing your cat’s teeth, offering dental treats (VOHC-approved), and scheduling professional dental cleanings with your vet.
Storing Food Improperly:
- Mistake: Leaving dry food in its original bag exposed to air, or not refrigerating wet food after opening.
- Impact: Food can spoil, lose nutrients, or become contaminated.
- Solution: Store dry kibble in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Keep it in its original bag inside the container to preserve fats and oils. Refrigerate opened wet food immediately and discard after 24-48 hours.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can provide a safer and healthier feeding routine for your beloved cat.

Transitioning Cat Food

Changing your cat’s food, whether it’s a new brand, a different formula, or switching from dry to wet, should always be done gradually. A sudden change can upset your cat’s digestive system, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, or a refusal to eat the new food.

The 7-10 Day Transition Plan:

This gradual method allows your cat’s digestive system to adjust to the new ingredients and allows your cat to get used to the new taste and texture.

Days 1-2: Mix 75% old food with 25% new food.
Days 3-4: Mix 50% old food with 50% new food.
Days 5-6: Mix 25% old food with 75% new food.
Days 7-10: Serve 100% new food.

Important Considerations:

Observe Your Cat: Pay close attention to your cat’s appetite, stool consistency, and general behavior during the transition.
Slow Down if Needed: If your cat shows any signs of digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite), slow down the transition. Go back to the previous ratio for a few more days before increasing the new food again. Some sensitive cats may need a 2-3 week transition period.
Don’t Force It: If your cat absolutely refuses the new food or continues to have digestive issues, consult your veterinarian. The food might not be suitable for them.
Hydration: Ensure your cat has access to plenty of fresh water throughout the transition, especially if you’re switching from wet to dry food.

Special Dietary Needs and When to Consult Your Vet

Just like humans, some cats have specific health conditions or sensitivities that require a specialized diet. These are often referred to as “prescription diets” or “therapeutic diets” and should only be fed under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Common Special Dietary Needs:

Sensitive Stomachs/Digestive Issues: Cats prone to vomiting or diarrhea may benefit from limited ingredient diets, easily digestible formulas, or those with added prebiotics/probiotics.
Weight Management: Overweight or obese cats need calorie-controlled diets, often higher in protein and fiber to promote satiety while reducing fat intake. Underweight cats may need calorie-dense foods.
Urinary Health: Cats prone to urinary crystals (struvite or oxalate) or bladder inflammation (cystitis) may require diets that control mineral levels (magnesium, phosphorus) and promote appropriate urine pH. These diets are crucial for preventing painful blockages.
Kidney Disease: Cats with chronic kidney disease need diets with controlled protein, phosphorus, and sodium levels, often with added Omega-3 fatty acids.
Food Allergies/Intolerances: Cats can develop allergies to common protein sources. Limited ingredient diets (LID) or hydrolyzed protein diets (where proteins are broken down into tiny pieces to avoid triggering an immune response) are often prescribed.
Diabetes: Diabetic cats often benefit from high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets to help manage blood sugar levels.
Senior Cats: Older cats may need diets with easily digestible proteins, controlled phosphorus for kidney support, and added joint supplements.
Dental Health: While not a “special need” in the same way, some cats with chronic dental issues might benefit from specific kibbles designed to reduce plaque.

When to Consult Your Veterinarian:

Your veterinarian is your best resource for nutritional advice. Always consult them if:

Your cat has any pre-existing health conditions.
You notice any changes in your cat’s appetite, weight, energy levels, litter box habits, or coat condition.
You suspect your cat has a food allergy or sensitivity.
You are considering a significant dietary change, especially to a homemade or raw diet.
You are unsure about the best food choice for your cat’s life stage or lifestyle.

Prescription diets are formulated to address specific medical conditions and are not meant for general feeding. Your vet can accurately diagnose your cat’s condition and recommend the most appropriate therapeutic diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cat Food

Q1: How much food should I feed my cat?

A: The amount varies greatly based on your cat’s age, weight, activity level, and the specific food’s caloric density. Always start by checking the feeding guidelines on the food packaging. These are usually listed by your cat’s weight. For example, an average 10-pound adult cat might need about 200-250 calories per day. Use a measuring cup or scale, and adjust the amount based on whether your cat is gaining or losing weight, or if their body condition changes. Your veterinarian can give you a precise calorie target.

Q2: Is grain-free food better for cats?

A: Not necessarily. The term “grain-free” is often misunderstood. While cats don’t have a high requirement for carbohydrates, grains themselves are not inherently bad or allergenic for most cats. Many grain-free foods replace grains with other carbohydrate sources like potatoes, peas, or lentils, which may not be lower in carbs or more beneficial. The most important thing is that the food is high in quality animal protein and meets AAFCO standards, regardless of whether it contains grains or not. Unless your cat has a diagnosed grain allergy (which is rare), grain-free isn’t automatically superior.

Q3: Can I feed my cat only dry food?

A: While many cats live on dry food alone, it’s generally not ideal due to its low moisture content. Cats naturally have a low thirst drive, and a dry-food-only diet can contribute to chronic dehydration, increasing the risk of urinary tract issues (like crystals or blockages) and kidney disease. It’s highly recommended to incorporate wet food into their diet or ensure your cat has multiple, appealing sources of fresh water (like a water fountain) if feeding only dry kibble.

Q4: How often should I change my cat’s food?

A: There’s no need to change your cat’s food regularly if they are thriving on their current diet. Frequent changes can upset their digestive system. However, you should change food when: 1) Your cat enters a new life stage (kitten to adult, adult to senior). 2) Your cat develops a health condition requiring a specialized diet. 3) Your vet recommends a change. 4) There’s a recall on your current food. When changing, always do so gradually over 7-10 days.

Q5: What human foods are safe/unsafe for cats?

A: Many human foods are unsafe for cats. Never feed: Onions, garlic, chives (toxic to red blood cells), chocolate, coffee, caffeine (stimulants), grapes, raisins (can cause kidney failure), alcohol, xylitol (artificial sweetener), raw yeast dough, macadamia nuts, or large amounts of fatty foods. Small amounts of plain, cooked meat (chicken, turkey, beef, fish – without bones or seasoning) can be safe as an occasional treat, but it should never replace their balanced cat food. Always check with your vet before offering human foods.

Q6: How do I know if my cat likes its food?

A: A cat that likes its food will typically eat it enthusiastically and consistently finish their meals. Signs they don’t like it include sniffing and walking away, eating only a small portion, trying to bury the food, or showing disinterest over several meals. However, a sudden loss of appetite can also indicate illness, so if your cat stops eating for more than 24 hours, contact your vet immediately.

Q7: My cat won’t drink water, what should I do?

A: Cats often prefer moving water, so a pet water fountain can encourage drinking. Offer multiple water bowls in different locations throughout your home. Ensure bowls are clean and filled with fresh water daily; some cats are particular about the taste of tap water, so filtered water might help. Consider switching to or increasing the amount of wet food in their diet, as it provides significant moisture. If your cat still isn’t drinking or shows signs of dehydration, consult your vet.