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You have probably heard about the benefits of alkaline water for people, but if you want to give your cat alkaline water, are there any downsides? And are cats even really allowed to drink alkaline water? We’re glad you asked. It’s always best to stay educated about matters that could potentially put your animals at risk.
Although alkaline water is not necessary for cats, it should not be harmful if they have a small amount of it. You should always consult with your vet before giving it to them. We’re going to go over when it’s suitable for your cat to drink alkaline water and when they really shouldn’t. Let’s get into it!
What Is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular water. Alkaline water generally has a pH between 8.0 and 9.0 on the scale, whereas regular water has a pH of about 6.5 to 7.0. Bottled alkaline water is regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration. These bottled options add ions to the water to increase the pH, thus making it alkaline.
Several health benefits of alkaline water have been claimed, but still, there is no clear scientific evidence of them. For example, certain sources indicate that alkaline water can prevent cancer and heart disease and that it might help slow bone loss.
According to Mayo Clinic, more studies are needed to verify if it has an effect on bone mineral density to make sure the benefits are self-sustaining. Of course, studies have been done with humans in mind, and not necessarily our pets. So, even less is known about the effects of alkaline water on domestic animals like cats and dogs.
Giving Your Cat Alkaline Water
Before you give your cat alkaline water, you have to make sure that it will suit them. If your cat is perfectly healthy, your veterinarian might give you the thumbs up for the occasional sip. However, they should have a normal level of pH in their water, which would be more like spring or purified water options.
If you wish to give your cat alkaline water, always ask your veterinarian before introducing this into their diet. Your cat may be given a clean bill of health, and your vet will provide you with recommended measurements per day.
Is Alkaline Water Good for Cats?
Alkaline water is usually not necessary for healthy cats. Adult cats in good physical standing should be able to have a sip of alkaline water with no problem. According to science, cats should drink water that is in the normal range, that is around between 6.0 to 7.0 pH.
When Should Cats Not Drink Alkaline Water
There are no studies that have looked into the benefits or dangers that alkaline water may have on cats. Generally speaking, you should avoid giving your cat alkaline water directly after meals.
Depending on the amount your cat drinks, alkaline water may affect your cat’s digestion. Cats are used to drinking neutral pH water, so anything above or below this neutrality can interfere with their ability to digest food normally.
Always Consult Your Vet About Diet Changes for Cats With Renal Problems
To get the appropriate care for your animal. Professional guidance is important if you know that your cat suffers from any kind of renal issue. Any changes in the diet can result in consequences.
Don’t take it upon yourself to treat a disease with alkaline water. This is something that your veterinarian should closely monitor to ensure your cat is getting the appropriate amounts.
The effects might be the opposite if your cat is still getting too much or too little water. So, if you are interested in this type of therapy for your cat, you can always bring it up with your veterinarian. If they don’t know or are unfamiliar with using alkaline, ionized water, they can refer you to another professional who might help you further.
Different Kinds of Water for Cats
If there are other water options at the store catching your eye, we’ll go over what you might be seeing and whether or not these options are good for your cat to drink.
Spring Water
Natural spring water is some of the purest water on the face of the earth. If you’re looking for the healthiest option, many veterinarians and nutritionists will recommend natural spring water for your cats. Spring water has all sorts of natural minerals anyone could benefit from, including our feline friends.
Distilled Water
Distilled water is water that is created by capturing the steam as regular water is boiled. The steam is captured in sterile conditions and condenses into distilled water as it cools. This water is almost entirely free of minerals. The pH of distilled water is around 5.4 – 5.7 making it too acidic for your cat. So, distilled water is certainly not a good option for cats to drink.
Purified Water
Purified water is essentially filtered water undergoing reverse osmosis to remove impurities. This type of water is entirely safe for your cat to drink and is probably among the most prevalent options you will find. Purified water has a pH of around 7.0.
Cats + Alkaline Water: Final Thoughts
So, now you know that alkaline water has no proven benefits to your cat and should not be given as their regular drinking water. If you have any questions about serving alkaline water to your cat, always consult with professionals. And keep in mind that regularly, they should have water with a pH of roughly 7.0.
Featured Image Credit: Impact Photography, Shutterstock