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How to get my new 5-week-old kitten to drink water and poop normally?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male

Hey I just got a kitten! They said he was about 5 weeks old. He is already eating soft food and sometimes hard food but they kept him on the formula because he won’t drink water yet. How can I get him to drink water? Also.. he sleeps a lot and hasn’t pooped since we got him. He has peed twice though.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 14th, 2020

Hi there! Congrats on your kitten! If your kitty is eating soft kitten food on his own, he may be getting enough fluid from his food. I would keep offering water, but I wouldn't be too worried about how much he's taking in as long as he continues to grow and be playful with a good appetite. As long as water is available, he will figure it out. Canned kitten food is more complete and balanced than formula, so if he's eating that then it's a better option than formula. You could encourage a bit more water intake by adding extra water to his canned food and mixing it into a slurry. It wasn't indicated how long you've had him, so I'm not sure if the not pooping is a concern. Cats will generally defecate about 1-2 times daily. Of course, if you feel something isn't right, then it's best to have him checked out by your vet.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 9th, 2017

    Congrats on your kitten, Ellie is very lucky that you took her in! Because she is eating canned cat food, she is getting moisture into her. Cats typically aren't big water drinkers, but she may be drinking water at night when you don't see her. I would leave a supply of water out for her at all time. You can also start giving her a dry kitten food and soaking that in warm water or kitten formula to have more moisture in her diet. I hope this helps :-)

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