23/10/2025
💦 Cats have special water-sensitive receptors on their tongues that mean they can taste the water they drink. They can also detect salt and even certain bitter tastes. These super sensors help them pick up tiny changes in salt levels, acidity, and other chemicals.
🐱 That’s why your feline friend might turn their nose up at “day-old” tap water but happily lap up fresh rainwater - they’re detecting subtle differences we can’t. They’re not just being a fussy feline, it’s science!
Every cat will have an individual preference, and encouraging them to drink can be challenging, but we have some great top tips to help 👉 https://icatcare.org/articles/how-to-encourage-your-cat-to-drink
We also have a free cat caregiver guide on increasing water intake 👉https://icatcare.org/resources/encouraging-your-cat-to-drink_caregiver_guide.pdf
