Introduction
Many animals can eat and drink various things, with cats being one of them. So, can cats drink sparkling water? The answer to this question is yes. Cats can consume sparkling water in small amounts.
Though cats often stay quiet and aloof, they are curious creatures. Hence, when your pet sees the bubbling water, it might want to try it out. You can feed it a few sips at a time and keep sufficient drinking water nearby where it can drink any time.
While it is safe for your pet to drink sparkling water, it should not become habitual to drink it. Too much of it can cause problems later on. It is always safe and better to give fresh water to your pet to stay hydrated and healthy.
What Is Sparkling Water?
Sparkling water is a bubbly drink saturated with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. It is also known as carbonated water, soda water, fizzy water, or club soda.
It can contain salt and other minerals in small amounts. There are different types of sparkling water or carbonated water, depending on what ingredients they have.
For example, there is a type of carbonated water called tonic water. It usually has quinine and sugar. There are also natural sparkling mineral waters often collected from mineral springs.
How Does Sparkling Water Taste?
It usually tastes acidic as the pH level is 3-4, but consumption in moderate quantity doesn’t make your body acidic. The kidneys and lungs purify and flush out extra carbon dioxide and maintain the alkaline at a higher level than acidic.
Side Effects of Sparkling Water
The main concern of regular carbonated water consumption is dental health. It may aggravate tooth decay since the acid touches the tooth enamel directly. However, there is not much research done on this subject.
But some studies also show that sparkling water can
- Improve heart health
- Boost digestive function
- Remove constipation
- Reduce or maintain blood sugar levels.
Is Sparkling Water Safe For Cats?
Your cat can drink sparkling water sometimes and stay hydrated. But you must also keep in mind that too much of anything is never safe. Even excess intake of drinking water can cause problems sometimes.
So, if your cat is curious about carbonated water, give a few sips at times. However, always keep a bowl of freshwater close to drink whenever needed.
Few Points To Consider Before Giving Your Cat carbonated Water
It is safe to give your cat sparkling water sometimes. But you have to consider a few things before doing so.
- Firstly, go through the ingredients list and see what does it have. Artificial sweeteners, flavors, and other substances can be harmful to your cat. If your soda water doesn’t have any extra substance, you can feed your cat freely. But if you notice any additional item, it is best not to let your cat consume it.
- Secondly, sparkling water contains sodium, but small amounts are safe. However, some varieties may have excess sodium, which can be harmful to your pet. So, if the quantity is high, then it is better not to feed it to your pet. But you can let it drink if it has only a minimal amount.
- Lastly, even if the carbonated water doesn’t have extra ingredients or excess sodium, there is one aspect to keep in mind. Earlier, we learned that too much of everything is bad. So, when giving the soda water to your cat, see that it doesn’t drink in excess. If your pet ingests too much, it can cause your pet’s belly to bloat. While bloating is not fatal, it can cause plenty of discomfort to your cat.
Some Other Points To Remember
If your cat shows a fondness for carbonated water, you might want to give it sometimes. That is absolutely fine. But when you buy any brand, check the ingredients first.
Try to purchase only those varieties that do not have extra ingredients or excess sodium. That way, you won’t have to refuse a few sips for your pet, and it won’t be disappointed.
Though a few sips of soda water are harmless, always make sure to keep some drinking water somewhere around the house or outside. Even if they don’t drink much, they do feel thirsty. So, with some water nearby, your pet can drink whenever it feels like it.
Keep a close watch regarding its behavior. If it shows much interest in soda water or even saltwater, it may have some deficiencies. It will be better to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible.
Bottomline
Since we learned that cats could drink sparkling water, you don’t have to worry. Let it enjoy a few sips from time to time. It won’t harm your pet at all, but don’t make it a habit.
At the same time, never replace freshwater with soda water, not for any pet or yourself. Water is always the healthiest fluid for everyone. Sufficient water can keep your cat healthy, lively and hydrated. A bowl of fresh water outside and indoors will be ideal for your cat or any other pet.