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My kitten won't drink water from a bowl. How can I encourage him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5 months and 14 days old | 4 lbs

Hi! I just adopted a 5 month old kitten with CH. I've had him for two days, and have not been able to get him to drink water from a bowl. I've tried several types of bowls with no luck. I've been adding extra water to his wet food in the meantime, which he eats just fine, but I don't think that's an ideal solution long-term. He has a vet appointment next week, but any help in the meantime would be appreciated.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 15th, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Udon. Good job adding water to his wet food, as this will give him extra water. The wet food is also providing a source of water. Cats aren't big water drinkers, but I have found success with a cat water fountain. My cats love it and it encourages them to drink from it. I would get him a cat water fountain, you can find them online and at a pet store. I hope this helps!

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