Can Cats Drink Bottled Water? Is Bottled Water Safe for Cats? [Explained]

Approximately 60%-70% of a cat’s body is water. It is important for them to drink water so that their body temperature remains steady, as well as so that they are able to digest and absorb vitamins and minerals.

As pet owners, we are concerned about our furry friends’ health and want to provide the best possible care, including proper hydration, but what about the type of water we give them? Can cats drink bottled water?

Cats can drink bottled water, and it’s generally safe for them to do so. Bottled water can provide a convenient and safe source of hydration, especially if you live in an area with unsafe tap water. However, it’s essential to read the label carefully and be aware of the potential risks, such as the cost, plastic waste, fluoride content, and mineral content.

With so many bottled water brands available, it’s natural to wonder if it’s safe for your feline friend. When can you give your cat bottled water? Is it okay to buy a few extra water bottles for your cat? Let’s explore the answers to these questions and ensure your cat is hydrated and healthy.

Is It Okay For Cats To Drink Bottled Water?

The short answer is yes, cats can drink bottled water, and there is nothing wrong with bottled water. In fact, many pet owners choose to give their cats bottled water over tap water for various reasons.

However, it is essential to understand that not all bottled water is created equal, and some may not be suitable for your feline friend.

There are five types of water to be considered. Well, spring, distilled, tap, and bottled water. Now, which should we give to our pet?

• While completely natural, spring water can be contaminated by wild animal excrement.
• Well water is formed after being naturally filtered by the earth, although it is unsafe for human consumption in most cases.
• Distilled water is another extreme. Water is commercially boiled into steam, collected, and condensed, leaving minerals and impurities behind. Distilled water is so pure that it cannot even conduct electricity due to the lack of free radicals in the water.
• Therefore, filtered water or water that has undergone reverse osmosis is the best option for your cat. Bottled water is technically okay, but it can contain harmful chemicals from the plastic bottle leached into the water.

Interesting Reading: Can Cats Drink Spring Water? (Spring Water vs. Tap Water)

Is Bottled Water Safe for Cats?

Technically Yes, cats can drink bottled water. The water inside the bottle is safe; however, you have to make sure that the plastic used in the bottles is of good quality; it can contain harmful chemicals from the plastic it is stored in.

You have to find out what material the bottle is made up of. Ideally, a bottle made up of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the best choice. A chemical called BPA (bisphenol A), which is utilized in making plastic bottles and used to coat the interior of food cans, should be avoided.

The BPA molecule is very similar to the thyroid hormone molecule, so it can cause hyperthyroidism in your felines, which is the most common endocrine disorder in cats. Make sure the bottle your cat drinks from is BPA-free if you want to give it bottled water.

Also, Check For: Can Cats Drink Ice Water?

Should Cats Drink Bottled Water?

Cats can drink bottled water as long as it is BPA-free, flavour-free, and not sparkling. While appealing to us as humans, fruit-infused water will repel your cat entirely. Cats are already terrible at hydrating themselves, so you do not want to put them off further.

Carbonated or sparkling water will cause abdominal bloating. While they will be fascinated by the bubbles and will want to drink them, it is not worth the pain they will go through later on.

Best Bottled Water for Cats

The ideal choice for your cat is bottled water that has been gathered from a natural source. Otherwise, companies that produce bottles free of BPA can also be used for your feline.

When Should I give Bottled Water to My Cat?

Although filtered water is the best option for your feline, arranging it is not always practical. In the following situations, bottled water can be given to your cat:

• If you are traveling: Keeping a kitty bowl and regularly filtering water is just not practical when you are traveling. In this case, giving your feline bottled water is acceptable. Alternatively, you can filter water prior to your trip and pour it into a water bottle.
• If your cat is too ill: If your pet is too sick to get up and drink from its bowl or is not interested in its bowl, you can give it bottled water directly.
• If your cat has a medical condition that requires strict water quality control, such as kidney disease, your veterinarian may recommend using bottled water to ensure that your cat is getting the appropriate hydration.
• In case of emergencies: If there is a hurricane or a snowstorm, you may not be able to arrange water for your feline. If that’s the case, you can use bottled water.
• On walks: It is just too bothersome to carry a pet bowl with you while on walks. In that case, a bottle of water just might come in handy.

Why Should You Not Be Giving Your Cat Bottled Water?

While it is generally safe to give bottled water to a cat, there are some reasons why it may not be the best choice.

The first downside of bottled water is its high price and negative environmental impact. Plastic bottles do not decompose quickly and contribute to pollution and waste sources.

Secondly, not all bottled water is created equal, and some may contain harmful chemicals or contaminants that can be harmful to your cat’s health. It is essential to read the label and ensure that the water you give your cat is free of harmful substances.

Additionally, tap water is generally safe for cats to drink and more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. When you’re concerned about tap water quality, you can use an effective water filter to remove contaminants from it and improve its taste.

Overall, while bottled water may be a convenient option in certain situations, tap water is a safe and healthy option for your cat’s hydration needs in most cases. For your cat’s health and to prevent dehydration, it’s essential that he always has access to clean and fresh water.

Also, Check Out: Can Cats Drink Lemon Water?

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrap Up!

While bottled water is an option for your furry friend, it is not ideal. The best option is filtered water that has gone through reverse osmosis. Bottled water may contain dissolved microplastics and BPA, which harms your feline’s health.

While bottled water is free from contaminants and may have a better taste, it can be costly and have a negative impact on the environment. Tap water is generally safe for cats to drink, and many affordable alternatives are available, such as filtered water.