THE BEST WAYS TO KEEP YOUR PET HYDRATED

Any pet owner will tell you that keeping pets hydrated is one of the most vital parts of their care. Water is essential for our pets’ bodies to function properly, just like it is for humans. But sometimes pets really don’t drink as much as they should, and that can lead to problems.

Here are some simple ways to make sure your pet stays hydrated:

Why Is Hydration So Important for Pets?

Water keeps your pet’s body running smoothly. It helps with digestion, carries nutrients, keeps their joints healthy, and regulates their body temperature.

Dehydration can cause serious problems like kidney damage, heatstroke, or urinary tract infections. Making sure your pet drinks enough water can help prevent these issues.

Furthermore, a well-hydrated pet is more likely to feel energetic and playful. Dehydration can leave them tired or irritable.

How Much Water Does Your Pet Need?

Dogs

On average, dogs need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight each day. For example, a 20-pound dog should drink about 20 ounces of water daily. That’s a lot of water.

Cats

Cats generally need less water than dogs because they get some of their hydration from food. However, they still need access to clean water and should drink regularly to stay healthy.

Easy Ways to Keep Your Pet Hydrated

Always provide fresh, clean water

The simplest way to keep your pet hydrated is to make sure they always have access to fresh water. Change their water bowl daily and clean it to prevent bacteria buildup.

Use a pet water fountain

Many pets, especially cats, are more likely to drink from running water than a bowl. A pet fountain can make drinking more appealing by keeping the water fresh and moving.

Add water to their food

Mixing a little water into your pet’s dry food can increase their water intake. This is especially helpful for pets that aren’t big drinkers.

Offer wet food

Canned or wet food has a higher water content than dry kibble. Adding it to your pet’s diet can help them stay hydrated, especially for cats who tend to drink less water naturally.

Keep water accessible

Place water bowls in multiple locations around your home so your pet doesn’t have to go far to find a drink. If you have a large house or multiple floors, this is especially important.

Flavor the water

If your pet is picky about drinking water, try adding a splash of low-sodium chicken broth or tuna water to make it more enticing. Just make sure it’s safe and doesn’t contain harmful ingredients like onions or garlic.

Encourage drinking during hot weather

Pets can lose a lot of water in the heat, so it’s important to offer extra water during warm months. You can even add a few ice cubes to their bowl to keep it cool and refreshing.

Signs That Your Pet Might Be Dehydrated

Dry nose or gums

A well-hydrated pet should have moist gums and a wet nose. If they’re dry, it could be a sign of dehydration.

Lethargy or low energy

Dehydration can make your pet feel tired or sluggish.

Sunken eyes

If your pet’s eyes look dull or sunken, they may need more water.

Loss of appetite

Pets that are dehydrated might not feel like eating.

Skin doesn’t bounce back

Gently pinch the skin on the back of your pet’s neck. If it takes a long time to return to its normal position, they could be dehydrated.

What to Do if Your Pet is Dehydrated

Encourage small sips of water

Let your pet drink small amounts of water at a time. Drinking too much at once can upset their stomach.

Offer electrolyte solutions

Pet-safe electrolyte solutions can help restore hydration and replace lost nutrients. These are especially helpful if your pet is sick or recovering from heat exposure.

See a vet if it’s severe

If your pet shows serious signs of dehydration like vomiting, diarrhea, or extreme lethargy, contact your veterinarian immediately. They may need fluids administered by a professional.

Keeping Hydration Fun and Easy

Some pets enjoy drinking more if it’s playful. Floating a pet-safe ice cube or toy in their water can make it more interesting.

If you’re out for a walk, hike, or trip, always carry water and a collapsible bowl for your pet. Portable water bottles made for pets are also a convenient option.

Moreover, if your pet tends to avoid drinking, offer a treat or praise whenever they take a sip. Positive reinforcement can encourage better habits.

Up Next:

• 17 Animals You Should Never Release Back Into the Wild
• 15 Animals So Rare, You’ve Probably Never Heard of Them
• 18 Dog Breeds Trainers Say Are Smarter Than the Rest

The post The Best Ways to Keep Your Pet Hydrated appeared first on Globe Grazers.

2025-01-04T09:16:41Z