Cats are curious creatures and sometimes their curiosity can lead them to do things that are not particularly hygienic or safe. One common behavior that cat owners often deal with is their cats drinking out of the toilet. This can be a problem for several reasons, including the risk of the cat getting sick from bacteria and other germs that may be present in the toilet.

So how does one get a cat to stop drinking out of the toilet? Here are some tips and tricks that may help:

1. Provide fresh water: One of the most common reasons cats drink out of the toilet is because they are not getting enough fresh water from their bowl. Make sure you provide clean and fresh water for your cat at all times. Consider using a water fountain or adding ice cubes to their bowl to make it more appealing.
2. Keep the toilet lid closed: One of the simplest ways to stop a cat from drinking out of the toilet is to keep the toilet lid closed. This may require some training, but with patience and persistence, your cat will eventually learn that the toilet is not a source of water.
3. Add a scent deterrent: Cats are sensitive to smells, and certain scents may discourage them from drinking out of the toilet. Try adding a few drops of essential oils like lemon, eucalyptus, or peppermint to the toilet bowl. The smell will not harm the cat, but it may be enough to make them think twice before taking a drink.
4. Use a toilet lock: If keeping the toilet lid closed is not an option, consider installing a toilet lock to keep your cat from getting access to the bowl. These locks are designed to be easy to use for humans but difficult for cats to figure out.
5. Offer an alternative source of water: If your cat is particularly determined to drink out of the toilet, consider offering them an alternative source of water. A small fountain or a dish of fresh water in a different location may be enough to satisfy their curiosity.
6. Train your cat: With patience and persistence, you can train your cat to stay away from the toilet. Whenever you catch your cat drinking from the toilet, firmly say “no” and redirect them to their water bowl. Reward them with treats and praise when they drink from their bowl.
7. Consider a deterrent spray: There are several commercial sprays available that are designed to keep cats away from certain areas. These sprays use natural scents like lavender or citrus to discourage cats from going near the sprayed area. Spraying the toilet bowl with one of these deterrents may be enough to keep your cat away.

In conclusion, there are several ways to get a cat to stop drinking out of the toilet. By providing fresh water, keeping the lid closed, adding a scent deterrent, using a lock, offering an alternative source of water, training your cat, or using a deterrent spray, you can help your cat break the habit of drinking from the toilet. With patience and persistence, your cat will learn that the toilet is not a source of water, but rather a place for human business.