Will Cats Drink Water With Apple Cider Vinegar In It? Exploring Feline Hydration and ACV
Whether cats will drink water with apple cider vinegar (ACV) in it is highly variable and depends on the individual cat’s preferences; most cats will avoid the altered taste and smell. Adding ACV to a cat’s water bowl as a health remedy is rarely effective due to this aversion.
The Appeal (or Lack Thereof) of Water to Cats
Cats are notoriously picky drinkers. Their evolutionary history as desert animals has instilled a lower thirst drive compared to dogs, relying more on moisture from their prey. Therefore, encouraging adequate water intake is often a challenge for cat owners. The taste, smell, temperature, and placement of water can all impact a cat’s willingness to drink. Introducing a new element like apple cider vinegar only complicates matters.
Proposed Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Cats (and Why They’re Debated)
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been touted as a natural remedy for various feline ailments, including:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Some believe ACV’s acidity can help prevent or treat UTIs by altering urine pH. However, this is not a proven treatment and can be harmful.
- Flea Control: ACV can be diluted and used as a rinse, creating an acidic environment fleas supposedly dislike. The effectiveness is debatable.
- Skin Conditions: Diluted ACV is sometimes suggested for treating mild skin irritations. However, it can also cause further irritation if not properly diluted or if the cat has sensitive skin.
- Digestive Issues: Some claim ACV aids digestion. Scientific evidence is lacking.
The evidence supporting these claims is largely anecdotal, and scientific studies are limited. More importantly, even if ACV possessed these benefits, they are rendered moot if the cat refuses to drink it. Always consult a veterinarian before using ACV, or any home remedy, on your cat.
Why Most Cats Will Avoid ACV Water
The strong, pungent smell and slightly sour taste of apple cider vinegar are typically unappealing to cats. Their sensitive noses are much more attuned to odors than ours, and the change in their water’s scent profile is often enough to deter them. A cat that willingly drinks water is already somewhat of a win, don’t jeopardize that by adding something they might dislike.
Experimenting (Cautiously) with ACV in Your Cat’s Water
If you’re determined to try adding ACV to your cat’s water, proceed with extreme caution:
- Start with an extremely diluted solution: Begin with a tiny amount – a few drops per bowl of water.
- Offer a control: Always provide a separate bowl of fresh, plain water alongside the ACV water. This ensures your cat has an alternative.
- Monitor closely: Watch your cat’s drinking habits. If they avoid the ACV water and only drink from the plain water bowl, discontinue use.
- Never force it: Forcing your cat to drink ACV water can lead to stress and dehydration.
- Observe for adverse reactions: Look for any signs of digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea), skin irritation, or other negative reactions.
Alternatives to ACV for Health Concerns
Before resorting to home remedies, consult with your veterinarian to diagnose and treat any underlying health issues. Safer and more effective alternatives to using ACV for common feline health problems include:
- For UTIs: Prescription medications and dietary changes recommended by your vet.
- For Flea Control: Veterinary-approved flea treatments (topical, oral, or collars).
- For Skin Conditions: Medicated shampoos, topical creams, or dietary adjustments prescribed by your veterinarian.
- For Digestive Issues: Probiotics, specialized diets, or medications as directed by your vet.
| Concern | Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) | Veterinary Recommended Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| —————– | ——————————————————— | ———————————————————– |
| Urinary Issues | Unproven, potential to worsen condition if not palatable | Prescription medication, dietary changes |
| Flea Control | Limited effectiveness, potential skin irritation | Veterinary-approved flea treatment |
| Skin Issues | Can be irritating, effectiveness limited | Medicated shampoo, topical medication, dietary changes |
| Digestive Issues | Unproven, potential to upset stomach | Probiotics, specialized diets, medication |
Frequently Asked Questions about Cats and Apple Cider Vinegar
Will ACV change the pH of my cat’s urine and prevent urinary issues?
While ACV is acidic, its effect on urine pH is minimal and inconsistent in cats. Relying on it to prevent or treat urinary problems is not recommended and can be dangerous. Prescription diets and medications are far more reliable.
Can I use ACV to get rid of fleas on my cat?
ACV may have some flea-repelling properties, but it’s not a highly effective flea treatment. It also won’t kill fleas. There are many safer and more effective veterinary-approved flea control products available.
My cat has a skin irritation. Is it okay to apply diluted ACV?
Applying ACV to irritated skin can sometimes help, but it can also worsen the problem. If your cat has skin irritation, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan before using ACV or any other home remedy.
How much ACV is safe to add to my cat’s water?
There’s no established safe dosage, but if you try it, start with just a few drops per bowl of water. Observe your cat’s behavior and stop immediately if they show any adverse reactions. More importantly, will cats drink water with apple cider vinegar in it at all, even in small amounts?
What kind of apple cider vinegar should I use for my cat?
If you choose to use ACV, use raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the “mother.” However, even this kind might not be safe or palatable to your cat. Ensure it is thoroughly diluted.
Can ACV help my cat with digestive problems like hairballs?
There’s no scientific evidence to support the claim that ACV helps with hairballs or other digestive issues in cats. Better to use proven hairball remedies like specialized diets or lubricants.
My cat won’t drink water with ACV in it. What else can I do to encourage hydration?
Many cats prefer fresh, running water. Consider a cat fountain. Experiment with different bowls (ceramic, stainless steel, glass). Also, ensure the bowl is wide enough so their whiskers don’t touch the sides. Adding wet food to their diet is also very helpful.
Is it safe to give ACV to kittens?
Due to their sensitive digestive systems, ACV is generally not recommended for kittens. Focus on providing them with a balanced kitten food and fresh water.
If my cat drinks ACV water, does it mean it’s working?
Just because your cat drinks ACV water doesn’t guarantee it’s benefiting them. Some cats might tolerate the taste despite not enjoying it. Monitor their overall health and consult with your vet if you have concerns.
Can ACV interact with my cat’s medications?
While interactions are unlikely, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Discuss with your veterinarian whether ACV is safe to use alongside any medications your cat is taking.
I heard ACV can help with my cat’s bad breath. Is this true?
While ACV has antibacterial properties, using it for bad breath is unlikely to be effective. Bad breath in cats often indicates underlying dental disease. A professional dental cleaning by your veterinarian is essential.
My vet said my cat has struvite crystals in its urine. Can ACV help dissolve them?
Struvite crystals require a specific approach, often involving a prescription diet designed to dissolve them. The ability to impact urine pH in a manner that would benefit a cat with struvite crystals has not been demonstrated, meaning that even if cats will drink water with apple cider vinegar in it, it’s unlikely to dissolve the crystals effectively. ACV should not be used as a substitute for veterinary treatment.