Zanghi, B.M. et al.

2018

American Journal of Veterinary Research

Nutrient enriched water was offered to 9 healthy cats fed dry kibble diet ad libitum in the test group in addition to tap water, while 9 cats on the same diet in the control group were offered only tap water. Intake of tap and nutrient enriched water was measured thoughout the study. Urine and blood were collected to evaluate indices of hydration. While tap water and calorie intake were similar between groups, the nutrient enriched water offer resulted in increased liquid consumption in the treatment group with higher urine output, lower urine speific gravity, osmolality, urine creatinine, phosphate and urea nitrogen concentrations. The effects offer benefits to cats in need of greater water consumption, as nutrient enrichment of water resulted in increased liquid intake and improved measures of hydration.