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My cat doesn't eat much but drinks a lot of water. Is this normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 8 years and 6 months old | 2.2 lbs

Since the day I adopted Tinkle (2009- she was barely 2 months old), she doesn't eat much. I have included fish and chicken in all forms like boiled, steamed, raw, fried and mashed, yet she seems to just take a small bite and doesn't eat in bulk. Yes, she surely takes mini bites like that around 3 times a day. Its the same case with wet and dry cat food ( only Whiskas is available here). However she drinks a lot of water throughout the day. This has continued since 8 yrs. Is this normal?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 1st, 2017

For some cats this is normal. This is likely the case with Tinkle, because she has been eating like this for so long. They will only eat as much as they need and will maintain a lean body weight.

This is only concerning if the cat is too thin. Below is a link to diagram that shows what the various grades of body condition are:

https://www.wsava.org/sites/default/files/Body%20condition%20score%20chart%20cats.pdf

If Tinkle is a 3 or below, then I would be concerned. This could indicate a long history of parasitism (worms), or some other condition. If you are ever concerned that she is too thin, then I recommend having a vet doctor examine her for any abnormalities.

Otherwise, if she is a 4-5 and acting normal, then it is great that she is so good at maintaining this lean body weight. Thin cats tend to be healthier and live longer than fat cats.

I hope that helps and all is well with Tinkle.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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