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Why do cats prefer cold or ice water? Can they get brain freeze?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 9 months old | 6.3 lbs

I literally just learned that my cat likes her water in a glass bowl, away and from her food, with 7 to 10 ice cubes in it. I also learned that it's the same temperature as the water in the toilet from which she used to drink. My question is, why are cats so picky and could this give cats brain freeze or cats just like colder water?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 26th, 2018

Hello! Cats are inherently picky, but one of my dogs also refuses to drink water that doesn't have ice, so I feel your pain. I've learned to laugh it off and keep on top of ice trays in my freezer. It's totally fine to give Jackie ice water. They have the same internal heating and cooling mechanisms we do, so it's likely that she is enjoying the cold water for the same reasons we do- it's hot out, more refreshing, etc. :) I hope this is helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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