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Sneaky Hydration: How Dry Cat Food is Getting Thirsty Felines to Drink

February 23, 2025 | Logan Simmons

Cats aren't known for their love of water. This can lead to dehydration

Cats aren’t known for their love of water. This can lead to dehydration, a serious health concern. But clever pet food manufacturers are finding ways to sneak more moisture into our feline friends’ diets, even through dry food!

The secret? Palatability. If a cat loves the taste and texture of their kibble, they’re more likely to eat more of it. This increased food consumption, even of dry food, can contribute to overall hydration.

So, how are they making dry food more irresistible?

  • Enhanced Aromas: Enticing smells can pique a cat’s interest. Manufacturers are using natural flavor enhancers to make kibble more fragrant and appealing.
  • Irresistible Textures: From crunchy to slightly softer kibble, different textures can appeal to different cats. Some brands are experimenting with shapes and sizes to make the eating experience more enjoyable.
  • Flavor Boosters: Think savory meat flavors, fish, or even cheese! Adding natural flavor extracts can make dry food more delicious and encourage cats to eat more.

While dry food alone won’t provide all the hydration a cat needs, increasing its palatability is a step in the right direction. A cat that enjoys their food is more likely to eat, and that can contribute to better hydration alongside fresh water always being available. Remember, wet food is still a great way to boost moisture intake, but these advancements in dry food palatability are a welcome addition to the fight against feline dehydration!