Your pet should drink about
How much water should my dog or cat drink?
A healthy pet needs roughly one ounce of water per pound of body weight each day — about 60 ml per kilogram. Enter your pet’s weight and this calculator turns it into a daily target in millilitres, ounces and cups. Food matters too: pets on wet food drink less, while hot weather, exercise and some medications push the need up.
This is a general guide, not veterinary advice. A sudden jump or drop in how much your pet drinks can signal a health issue — if you notice that, call your vet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water should a dog drink a day?
About one ounce per pound of body weight — so a 44 lb dog needs roughly 44 oz (about 1.3 litres) a day. Active dogs and hot days increase that. Enter your dog’s weight above for a precise target.
Do cats need less water?
Cats need water on the same per-weight basis, but they naturally drink less and get much of their moisture from food — especially wet food. A cat that suddenly drinks a lot more is worth a vet check.
My pet drinks a lot more than this — should I worry?
A big, sustained increase in thirst can be a sign of conditions like kidney disease or diabetes, so mention it to your vet. This calculator gives a healthy baseline to compare against.
Does wet food change how much they drink?
Yes — wet food is mostly water, so pets eating it drink noticeably less from the bowl. That’s normal. Always keep fresh water available regardless.