Cat Drinks From the Loo? Here's What to Do

We cat lovers know our pets have odd habits. One of the strangest is when they drink from the toilet. You might wonder, "Why does my cat drink from the loo?" and, "How do I stop them?"

Cats like moving water. When you flush the toilet, it looks fresh and flowing. This is much more interesting than still water in a bowl. Plus, the toilet bowl is cool, which is nice when it's warm. Some cats just like the taste of treated water, or they are just curious.

However, toilet water isn't safe. It can have germs, cleaning stuff, and even medicine in it. This can make your cat ill. Also, your cat could fall in, especially kittens or older cats.

So, how do we stop this and keep our cats safe and hydrated? Here's how:

1. Fresh Water: Give your cat a better option than the toilet. Use a wide, shallow bowl, made of ceramic, glass, or metal. Change the water often. A pet water fountain with running water is a good idea.
2. Close the Lid: Keep the toilet lid down. It's the easiest way to stop your cat from getting to the water. You can also use toilet cleaners cats don't like, such as citrus scents, but make sure they are safe for pets.
3. More Water in Food: Make sure your cat gets enough water from their food. Wet food is good. You can also add a bit of water to dry food.
4. Praise Good Behaviour: When your cat drinks from their water bowl, tell them they are good and give them a treat. This works better than shouting, which can make them worried.
5. Clean the Toilet: A clean toilet is less inviting. Clean it regularly.
6. Check with the Vet: If your cat suddenly drinks a lot, including from the toilet, it could be a sign of illness. Speak to your vet.

Dealing with a cat drinking from the loo problem takes patience. Following these steps can help stop the habit. Fresh water and a closed toilet lid are the best ways to fix this. Understanding why your cat drinks from the loo in the first place will help you take the right action.