Cats are descended from desert animals; they get most of their water through their food and therefore don't drink much. Their natural diet consists of birds and small animals, mostly protein and fat, with almost no carbohydrates. Feeding dry food tends to lead to urinary tract problems due to lack of water and very concentrated urine, makes them fat due to the carbohydrates, often causes vomiting, and can lead to diabetes in older cats, again due to carbohydrates. Of course few cats develop all of these problems, but on the other hand, few cats escape all of them.

A minimal diet for a cat consists of meat, bone, animal fats, and at times probiotics. Cats can eat their food raw without any problems, but if you must cook it, it is best to bake or roast it.

If the cat eats plants, it may be due to the fiber or some nutrient in the plant. ZYou could grow wheat grass or barley grass. Spider plants are also safe and appealing to cats.

If you have any questions about your water, you can bring a sample to your local health department which will test it for you for free.

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