Can Cats Have Bone Broth?
In this guide
Cats have a complicated relationship with water. They’ll ignore the fresh bowl you’ve just filled, then drink from a dripping tap, your glass, or a puddle in the garden with obvious delight.
If you’ve ever worried that your cat doesn’t drink enough, you’re in good company. And you may have wondered: could broth help?
Can cats have bone broth?
Yes, as long as it’s the right kind. A broth made specifically for pets can be a tasty addition to your cat’s routine. Broths and stocks made for humans are a different matter, because they often contain onion, garlic and salt, none of which belong in a cat’s bowl.
Why cats often drink so little
Cats descend from desert-dwelling ancestors who got most of their water from their prey. That’s why many cats still have a low drive to drink.
Diet makes a big difference. Cats on wet food get a large share of their water from their meals, while cats on mainly dry food need to drink more. Veterinary guidance suggests a cat needs roughly 50ml of water per kilogram of body weight each day, so around 200–250ml for a typical 4–5kg cat, from food and drink combined.
Roughly how much water your cat needs a day
Tips to encourage your cat to drink
- Move the water away from food. Many cats prefer their water bowl well away from where they eat.
- Offer several bowls in different places around the house.
- Try different bowls. Some cats prefer glass, ceramic or metal, and wide, shallow shapes.
- Consider a fountain. Many cats prefer moving water.
- Add flavour. A little pet broth in the bowl, or over their food, can make all the difference.
How to serve broth to your cat
- Over food: sprinkle a little powder over wet or dry food, or mix with warm water and pour over.
- In a separate bowl: offer a little broth alongside their usual water, never instead of it.
- As ice cubes: freeze broth in an ice cube tray and drop one into the water bowl.
Follow the feeding guide on your pouch and introduce it gradually, especially if your cat has a sensitive stomach.
What about kittens?
Our pet broths are fine for kittens. As with any new food, start small and check with your vet if your kitten is very young or has any health concerns.
When to see a vet
If your cat suddenly starts drinking much more or much less than usual, or seems unwell, speak to your vet. Changes in drinking can be a sign that something needs checking.
Made for cats as well as dogs
Our Pets Chicken Broth + Prebiotic is made for both dogs and cats. Each pouch contains just two ingredients: bone broth and chicory root fibre, a natural prebiotic. That’s it. No onion, no garlic, no artificial ingredients. Most cats can’t resist chicken, which makes it an easy place to start.
If your pet is very young, elderly, on medication, has a health condition or follows a special diet, check with your vet before adding anything new to their bowl.
Questions people ask
Can cats drink chicken broth?
Yes, if it’s a broth made for pets. Avoid human chicken stocks and broths, which often contain onion, garlic and salt.
Can bone broth replace water for cats?
Broth is a tasty extra to encourage drinking. Always keep fresh water out alongside it.
Is bone broth good for older cats?
Many older cats enjoy a savoury topper as their appetite changes. Check with your vet if your cat has any health conditions.
Made for curious cats
Pets Chicken Broth + Prebiotic is a simple everyday topper for cats and dogs. Sprinkle it on food, stir it into water or freeze it into cubes.
Sources & Further Reading
