Can Cats Drink Coconut Water? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Coconut water is the clear liquid found inside young coconuts. It's packed with electrolytes and has benefits for humans. But can cats have it? Coconut water isn't toxic to cats but can cause digestive upset. It's not natural for them to drink, and they don't appreciate the sweet taste. So, while you could offer a small amount, it might not be worth it. If your cat consumes a small amount, it's probably not a big deal. But if they have too much, call your vet and watch for signs of gastrointestinal upset. Some cats may be more sensitive to it.

About Coconut Water

Coconut water is the liquid inside young coconuts. As the coconut ages, the moisture is replaced by flesh. It's rich in carbohydrates and contains electrolytes like magnesium and potassium. People drink it to combat high blood pressure and for hydration and electrolytes after exercise. Coconut water is different from coconut milk (made by mashing the flesh with water) and coconut oil (extracted from coconut milk).

Is Coconut Water Good For Cats?

Coconut water is non-toxic to cats. If your cat has a small amount, there's usually no need to worry. Watch for diarrhea and vomiting. If your cat has gastrointestinal upset, talk to a vet. If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get pet advice at an affordable price. If your cat can tolerate small amounts of coconut water, it could help with dehydration by providing fluids and electrolytes.

Can Cats Have Coconut Water? The 4 Potential Risks

While a small amount of coconut water can be beneficial, it doesn't suit all cats, and there are risks with too much.

1. Digestive Issues

As mentioned, the most common problem after drinking coconut water is gastrointestinal upset, especially if large amounts are consumed. Offering it for hydration might make them more dehydrated if they vomit and have diarrhea.

2. High In Sugar

Natural coconut water has less sugar than some drinks but still more than water. Commercial coconut water is often sweetened. Cats can't taste sweet flavors. Over time, too much sugar can lead to weight gain and obesity, increasing the risk of diabetes, urinary issues, and joint problems. Artificial sweetener xylitol is more toxic to dogs, but it's not recommended for cats either.

3. High Potassium Levels

Potassium is an essential mineral. Healthy cats can tolerate it as their kidneys remove excess. But if they have kidney or urinary tract problems, excess potassium can build up, leading to hyperkalemia, which can affect the heart and cause paralysis, arrhythmia, and weakness.

4. Sensitivities and Allergies

Some cats are allergic to coconut water, which can cause itching, swelling, redness, stomach upsets, lethargy, and other problems.

The 5 Tips to Help Encourage Your Cat to Drink

Some owners consider giving coconut water for hydration. But there are other steps to encourage cats to drink.

1. Ensure Proper Water Bowl Placement

Cats are sensitive. Place the water bowl away from the litter box and loud areas. Don't put food and water bowls next to each other as it can contaminate the water and cats may not drink near their food.

2. Make Sure the Water Is Fresh

Cats prefer fresh water. Refill the bowl when empty and change the water once or twice a day, preferably in the morning and at night.

3. Try a Different Bowl

Cats can be picky about bowls. If your cat refuses to drink, try a different one. Most cats prefer wide, shallow bowls and may like metal, glass, or ceramic bowls over plastic.

4. Try a Water Fountain

Cats like running water. A cat water fountain not only freshens the water but also gets their attention. Our favorite is Hepper's Stainless Steel Cat Water Fountain. It has multiple features like easy cleaning, triple filtration, multiple flow modes, and a large capacity.

5. Add Some Flavor

Adding a few drops of something tasty like plain spring water, tuna juice, or fish oil to the water bowl might encourage your cat to drink.

Conclusion

Cats can be picky about what they drink. Coconut water isn't toxic but can cause gastric upset. Small amounts are likely okay, but too much can cause diarrhea and weight gain.

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