Summer heat hits cats harder than we think. While we get to cool off with cold drinks and air conditioning, our cats rely almost entirely on their environment to stay hydrated. So when you suddenly notice your cat drinking more than usual, the big question is: Is this normal summer behavior, or something you should pay closer attention to?
Let’s break down what increased thirst looks like in healthy summer conditions—and what signs may indicate a deeper issue.
Why Cats Naturally Drink More in Warm Weather
Just like humans, cats lose more moisture in hotter temperatures. Even indoor cats feel the seasonal shift. You may notice your cat:
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Visiting the water bowl more often
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Seeking cooler spots around the house
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Showing more interest in running water (sinks, tubs, fountains)
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Eating slightly less dry food
This is all normal. Heat encourages thirst, and your cat is simply protecting themselves from dehydration.
How Much Water Should a Cat Drink Daily?
On average, cats need 60–80ml of water per kg of body weight per day.
For a typical 4kg cat, that’s roughly 240–320ml each day—coming from both food and water.
During summer, drinking closer to the higher end of that range is expected.
Wet-food-fed cats may drink less from a bowl. Dry-food-fed cats often drink more.
When Increased Thirst Is Normal
You can consider increased summer drinking normal if your cat:
✅ Still eats normally
✅ Urinates regularly without changes
✅ Appears active and comfortable
✅ Drinks consistently throughout the day
✅ Isn’t showing frantic or excessive water-seeking behavior
Seasonal heat alone can push cats to drink more. This is healthy and good.
When You Should Pay Closer Attention
If your cat’s water intake suddenly spikes or becomes intense, it may be a sign of something else. Watch for:
⚠️ Drinking dramatically more than usual
⚠️ Peeing much more frequently
⚠️ Weight loss
⚠️ Lethargy
⚠️ Vomiting or changes in appetite
⚠️ Crying for water constantly
⚠️ Drinking from unusual places (shower drain, dirty puddles, plants)
These can be early signs of:
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Kidney issues
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Diabetes
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Urinary tract problems
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Thyroid imbalance
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Dehydration from illness
If consumption seems extreme rather than seasonally increased, a vet check is smart.
How to Help Your Cat Stay Safely Hydrated in Summer
Whether your cat is drinking a little more or struggling to keep up, the environment you create plays a huge role in keeping them safe through hotter months.
1. Add Multiple Water Sources
Cats drink more when water is easy to find.
Place bowls or fountains in at least two to three locations.
2. Keep Water Cool and Fresh
Warm, stagnant water is unappealing—especially in the heat.
Refresh bowls often or let a fountain circulate water continuously.
3. Offer Moisture-Rich Meals
Wet food, broth toppers, and added water help maintain hydration.
4. Upgrade to a Hydration Fountain
Cats instinctively prefer flowing water. A fountain makes summer hydration effortless by keeping water:
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Cooler
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Fresher
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Better tasting
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Constantly moving and filtered
BlushyPaws hydration fountains are especially helpful in summer, since they encourage cats to drink more without you having to refill or refresh bowls all day.
The Bottom Line
A slight increase in water intake is completely normal during the warmer months. Your cat is simply adjusting their hydration to match the season.
But if thirst suddenly skyrockets or comes with other symptoms, it’s worth checking in with your vet.
Either way, summer is the perfect time to upgrade your cat’s hydration routine—clean water, multiple stations, and a reliable fountain make a big difference in keeping them comfortable and healthy.
Explore the BlushyPaws Hydration Fountain Collection if you want to give your cat cooler, fresher, more appealing water all summer long.