Cat's Need for Water

I have a friend who owns a six year old mixed breed female cat. She got the cat a couple months ago. She claims the cat does not drink any water except for a little water she adds to her moist food. Therefore, she does not provide the cat with any additional water. No water dish. She says that this is normal behavior for some cats, that is, not to drink any water. I think she's crazy. Is her position on this matter at all true? I feel she may be killing her cat and I find the situation very disturbing. Please give me your comments on this matter.

My comments are a very strong EVERY CAT NEEDS FRESH WATER DOWN IN A SEPARATE BOWL 24 HOURS A DAY! Yes, canned food has lots of water in it. Yes, if she is adding more water to the food, then the food has an even greater water content. Yes, it is true that healthy cats with good kidneys and no diabetes or hyperthyroidism do not drink much at all. HOWEVER, they must have the choice to drink water at all times, regardless of how small an amount it is. Your friend is, in my opinion, engaging in animal abuse and is asking for trouble with the future health of her cat. Feel free to quote me. And thenk you for bringing up this important topic!

Dr. Neely