Can Cats Drink Sparkling Water?
The short answer: Cats can drink a small amount of sparkling water, but it is NOT recommended.
While sparkling water isn’t toxic, the carbonation (bubbles) can cause stomach discomfort, gas, and bloating in many cats. Cats also don’t benefit from it in any way—plain still water is always the safest and healthiest option.
This guide dives deep into whether sparkling water is safe, what can go wrong, how much is too much, alternatives, and when to absolutely avoid it.
Is Sparkling Water Safe for Cats?
Sparkling water is not an appropriate drink for cats, mainly because the carbonation can irritate the stomach and cause discomfort. Cats should stick to fresh still water as their main source of hydration.
👉 If you’re considering giving your cat other drinks like milk, make sure you read this guide: Can Cats Drink Milk?
👉 Can Cats Drink Lactose-Free Milk?)
- No sugar
- No calories
- No artificial additives
- No toxins
BUT… the carbonation itself is where the problem begins.
Sparkling water can cause:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Burping
- Stomach discomfort
- Abdominal pressure
Cats have very delicate digestive systems and are not built to handle fizzy, carbonated beverages.
So while it’s not toxic, it’s also not a safe regular drink for cats.
Why Cats Should Avoid Sparkling Water?
There are several reasons vets advise sticking to plain fresh water.
1. Carbonation Can Upset Their Stomach
Those little bubbles that humans enjoy can cause:
- Distended belly
- Excess stomach gas
- Irritation in the digestive tract
- Nausea
Cats don’t understand why the water is “fizzy,” so they may drink too fast and upset their stomach instantly.
2. Some Cats Get Scared of the Fizz
Many cats get startled when the bubbles tickle their tongue or make a popping sound.
Cats prefer predictable textures—still water is normal for them.
3. Sparkling Water Does Not Hydrate Better
There’s zero hydration benefit over plain water.
Cats don’t need carbonation, minerals, or fizz—they simply need clean, fresh, still water.
4. Flavored Sparkling Water Is Often Dangerous
If the sparkling water contains:
- Citrus
- Sweeteners
- Natural or artificial flavors
- Sodium
- Lemon or lime oil
…it becomes unsafe for cats.
Especially avoid sparkling waters with xylitol, which is highly toxic to pets.
Can Cats Drink Plain, Unflavored Sparkling Water?
In very small amounts, yes.
If your cat takes a few licks out of curiosity, nothing terrible will happen.
But it shouldn’t become a habit.
Safe amount:
- A few licks
- 1–2 teaspoons at most
- Only occasionally
Not safe:
- A bowl full
- Daily serving
- Flavored or sweetened sparkling water
So, “safe” doesn’t mean “beneficial”—sparkling water doesn’t offer any health advantage.
Why Some Cats Are Attracted to Sparkling Water
A few cats get curious because:
- The sound intrigues them
- The bubbles move
- The scent is slightly different
- They see their human enjoy it
Cats are mimics—they may want what you have, but that doesn’t make it good for them.
What Happens If a Cat Drinks Sparkling Water?
In most cases, nothing serious happens.
But some cats may experience:
- Gurgly stomach
- Increased burping
- Passing gas
- Mild discomfort
- Reduced appetite for a few hours
Symptoms usually go away on their own within a day.
However, if your cat drank a large amount, you may see:
- Persistent vomiting
- Refusal to eat
- Swollen abdomen
- Lethargy
- Excessive drooling
In that case, call your veterinarian for guidance.
Which Cats Should NEVER Drink Sparkling Water?
Avoid sparkling water completely for cats with:
- Sensitive stomach
- IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
- Pancreatitis history
- Gastritis
- Gas or bloating issues
- Older age, digestive weakening
- Recent vomiting
- Recent surgery
Kittens should also never drink sparkling water—only plain, room-temperature water.
How to Hydrate a Cat Safely?
If you’re trying to encourage your cat to drink more water, there are far better methods. You can check this article as well Can cats drink coconut water?
1. Use a Cat Water Fountain
Cats LOVE running water.
It mimics streams in nature and encourages hydration.
2. Add Water to Wet Food
This is the easiest hydration trick ever.
3. Feed More Wet Food
Wet food is 70–80% moisture.
4. Offer Multiple Water Bowls
Place bowls in:
- Living room
- Kitchen
- Bedroom
Cats drink more when water is easily accessible.
5. Try Broth
Unsalted chicken broth (no onion/garlic) can encourage drinking.
Signs Your Cat Isn’t Drinking Enough Water
Dehydration is dangerous. Watch for:
- Dry gums
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Lethargy
- Dark urine
- Constipation
- Sunken eyes
Plain water—not sparkling—is the solution.
Healthy Alternatives to Sparkling Water
Try these instead:
- Plain filtered water
- Cat water fountain
- Tuna water (from tuna in water, not oil)
- Unsalted, onion-free chicken broth
- Ice cubes (fun and safe!)
- Water mixed with wet food
These encourage hydration without any digestive risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Club soda contains sodium, which is dangerous for cats.
Only if unflavored, but still not recommended.
Absolutely not. Their digestive system is too sensitive.
No. Flavors often contain oils, sweeteners, and additives unsafe for cats.
Not exactly, but bubbles can cause coughing or throat irritation.
No—but it’s not healthy or recommended.
Final Verdict: Should Cats Drink Sparkling Water?
No, cats should NOT drink sparkling water on purpose.
A tiny accidental sip is harmless, but regular consumption can cause:
- Stomach upset
- Gas and bloating
- Digestive irritation
- Drinking habits disruption
Cats do best with plain, fresh, still water only.
If your cat drank a small amount, don’t panic.
Just avoid offering it again and stick to safe hydration methods.