Do Cats Like Cold Water?

​It's probably fair to say that cats are like no other animal we’ve ever encountered before.

They're also one of the most interesting pets to keep because they have super interesting personalities, unparalleled levels of cuteness, and a stubborn attitude that makes them very independent.

One interesting thing about cats is their relationship with water. We’ve all heard about cats and their dislike for water but whether they like it or not, water is essential to their health.

​It helps them stay hydrated and keep cool.

However, there are actually quite a few questions that need answering when it comes to cats and water. The fact you’ve landed here would suggest you have plenty of questions too.

One big question is do cats like cold water? 

While the answer may vary depending on who you ask, we’re going to answer it for you today.

If you want to learn more about your cat's relationship with water, stay tuned!

​Do Cats Like Cold Water?

​Let’s start by answering the main question you came here looking for the answer to. If you’re talking about drinking water, yes, cats do like cold water. 

Cold water is much fresher and safer for them. It also leads to much better overall health and higher levels of hydration.

Having said that, the main reason your cat will like cold water is that it cools them down on hot days.

Some cats love cold water so much that they will happily drink out a cat bowl that contains ice cubes.

However, there are other cats that don’t like to drink water that's too cold. They might instead prefer water at room temperature.

When thinking about the answer to this question, context is also important. If you’re talking about cats liking to drink cold water they love it.

​On the other hand, if you’re talking about bathing them in it or them swimming in it, the answer is completely different. 

Let’s look at that next!

​Do Cats Like Being In Cold Water?

​When it comes to cats being in the water, it doesn’t matter what the temperature is, they will not like it. Cats absolutely hate getting their fur wet.

The water waterlogs their fur, making them feel very uncomfortable. It also affects how quick and agile they are.

Of course, this makes the cat feel more vulnerable and ineffective as a predator. 

Aside from the uncomfortable feeling cats feel when in water, it is believed that the species don’t like it because of how they evolved.

​Cats evolved in dry, hot climates that had little exposure to lakes, rivers, and other water sources. Therefore, water is a fairly unfamiliar element that they naturally try to avoid. 

​Is Ice Cold Water Safe For Your Cat?

​It is perfectly safe for your cat to drink cold water but you have to be careful when giving them ice cold water. 

Ice cold water, whether it be fresh from the freezer or with ice cubes added is much cooler than a bowl of fresh tap water.

While this may not be a problem with most cats, there are some that don’t react brilliantly to water that is so cold.

Some cats may be encouraged to drink more water when it’s icy cold whilst others might wait until it warms up a little. This could cause your cat to over hydrate or simply not drink enough.

Aside from that, ice-cold water isn’t hazardous. However, it can cause a few complications. One common complication is brain freeze.

​If your cat were to get brain freeze, they could be put off drinking water if it keeps happening.

One good thing is that you don’t need to worry about your cat feeling too cold.

Overall, ice-cold water won’t harm your cat but it could make the experience uncomfortable for them.

​Can Cats Have Water With Ice Cubes In It?

​Yes, your cat can have water with ice cubes in it. However, you have the responsibility to ensure ice cubes are of an appropriate size.

This is the only safe way you can ensure your cat won’t choke.

Using ice cubes can actually be a great way to encourage your cat to drink. Cats generally see ice cubes as a toy. Therefore, they will drink the water in an attempt to play with the ice. 

The only other concerns you should be aware of when giving your cat ice are the potential for brain freeze and tooth damage.

​Cold drinking water won’t damage a cat's teeth but hard ice cubes might. 

​What Temperature Should Your Cat's Water Be?

​Ideally, your cat’s water should be at a temperature of 50 to 72 degrees. This is the same sort of temperature that we drink our water. It is also a perfectly acceptable temperature for your cat. 

However, you might have to take your cat's preferences into account. If your cat clearly prefers another temperature, don’t be afraid to give them their water at that temperature.

There is an element of trial and error with this so make sure you stay patient with your cat.

​Do Cats Like Warm Water?

​It isn’t uncommon for some cats to prefer warm water instead of cold. As long as the water isn’t too hot, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with this.

​Ideally, if your cat does prefer warm water, it will still only be at room temperature. 

When giving your cat warm water, always make sure you keep temperatures as low as possible. Anything too high will hurt your cat.

​Can Your Cat Drink Boiled Water?

​For obvious reasons, you should never give your cat boiling hot water. However, there’s nothing wrong with giving your cat water that has been boiled and allowed to cool. 

In fact, boiled water that has been allowed to cool can be one of the best ways to give the cat water that you know is safe to drink.

​Boiling the water removes any bacteria and essentially filters it.

Water that is too hot or boiling will seriously hurt or even kill your cat.

​Final Thoughts

​So, cats do like cold water. They find it much more refreshing than warmer water and often enjoy playing with the ice cubes.

However, as you’ve seen in this post, there are a number of things you need to think about when giving your cat cold water.

​Brain freeze, overhydration, underhydration, and choking are all things you need to remember.

Overall, you might need to go through a process of trial and error with your cat in order to see what they prefer. 

Stay patient, take precautions, and do everything you can to give your cat the water they like best.