Why teaching your cat to use a drinking bowl is important
Drinking bowls are essential to keep your cat hydrated, and they help prevent health issues such as urinary tract infections. However, some cats prefer drinking from a sink, which is problematic. Sinks are harder to keep clean, and your cat might accidentally ingest harmful cleaning products that could cause health issues. Teaching your cat to drink from a bowl is the best option, and it is not difficult to do.
Start with a clean and attractive drinking bowl
Cats are picky creatures, and they like clean and fresh things. Therefore, it is crucial to offer them a clean and appealing drinking bowl. You can choose from different materials such as ceramic, stainless steel, or plastic, depending on your cat’s preferences. However, avoid plastic bowls as they can harbor bacteria and cause feline acne.
Place the drinking bowl in a convenient location
Cats are creatures of habit, and they like routine. Therefore, place the drinking bowl in a convenient location where your cat usually spends time, such as the kitchen or the living room. It is essential to keep the bowl away from food and litter boxes as cats do not like mingling those spaces.
Show your cat the new drinking bowl
Cats are curious creatures, and they like investigating new things. Therefore, show your cat the new drinking bowl and let them sniff it. You can also add some water in it to make it more inviting. Encourage your cat to drink by dipping your finger in the water and letting them lick it, or use a toy to splash water in the bowl. Eventually, your cat will learn that the bowl is the new drinking spot.
Be patient and persistent
Teaching your cat to drink from a bowl is not an instant process, and it requires patience and persistence. It is normal for your cat to resist the new drinking bowl during the first few days, but do not give up. Keep offering fresh water in the bowl, and praise your cat every time they drink from it. With time, your cat will learn to appreciate the drinking bowl and leave the sink alone.
