Is your cat constantly making a mess with their water bowl? Don’t worry – you’re not alone! Many cat owners deal with wet floors and spilled water every day. Let’s look at why cats do this and how you can stop it.
Why Do Cats Knock Over Water Bowls?
They Like Moving Water
Think about it – in nature, moving water is usually cleaner than still water. Your cat’s wild instincts tell them that moving water is safer to drink. When they paw at their water or tip the bowl, they’re actually trying to make the water move! This is the same reason why many cats love drinking from running faucets. Read Can Cats Eat Popcorn?
They Can’t See Still Water Well
Have you ever noticed your cat pawing at the water before drinking? They do this because it’s hard for them to see where the water level is. By moving the water, they can see it better. It’s like they’re checking how deep it is before taking a drink.
Read Can Cats Eat Onions? A Deadly Threat
They Might Not Like Their Bowl
Sometimes the problem is simple – your cat might not like their water bowl! Maybe:
- The bowl is too deep
- Their whiskers touch the sides (this can be uncomfortable)
- The bowl is in a spot they don’t like
- They don’t like what the bowl is made of (some cats hate plastic)
They Want Your Attention
Cats are smart! If they learn that knocking over the water bowl makes you come running, they might do it just to get your attention. It’s like when a toddler throws their toy to make you pick it up!
Read Can Cats Eat Kale? Is Kale Safe for Cats?
They’re Just Having Fun
Sometimes the simple answer is the right one – your cat might just think it’s fun to play with water! Just like some cats love batting around toys, others enjoy splashing water around. Read Can Cats Eat Peas?
How to Stop Your Cat from Knocking Over Their Water Bowl
Try These Simple Fixes
Get a Heavy Bowl
- Buy a heavy ceramic or metal bowl
- Look for bowls with rubber bottoms
- Get a bowl that’s wide at the bottom
Change Where You Put the Bowl
- Move it away from corners
- Keep it away from their food (many cats prefer this)
- Put it somewhere quiet but open
Get a Pet Fountain
- Many cats love these
- They’re hard to knock over
- The moving water keeps cats interested
Give Them More to Do
- Get some new toys
- Play with them more
- Give them places to climb and explore
When Should You Worry?
Most of the time, knocking over water bowls isn’t serious. But call your vet if:
- Your cat suddenly starts doing this when they never did before
- They seem extra thirsty
- They’re acting differently than usual
- They’re not eating well
Quick Tips to Remember
- Clean water bowls daily
- Fill bowls regularly
- Have multiple water spots around your house
- Never punish them for spilling – they don’t understand why it’s wrong
- Be patient while trying new solutions
Read Also
Dehydration in Cats: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
9 Reasons Why Do Cats Hate Water?
Bathing a Cat: A Step-by-Step Guide to Keeping Your Cat Clean and Calm
