As temperatures climb, keeping your pet hydrated is essential for their health and happiness. Dehydration can sneak up quickly, so taking a few extra steps can make all the difference in keeping your furry friend cool and comfortable. Keep your pet hydrated by following these tips.
How do I know if my pet is dehydrated?
Even with extra hydration efforts, it’s important to watch for signs of dehydration, including:
- Dry gums
- Lethargy
- Excessive panting
- Loss of skin elasticity (i.e. when you gently pinch their skin, it doesn’t bounce back down immediately)
If you notice any of these symptoms, encourage your pet to drink and consult your vet if symptoms persist.
5 Tips To Keep Your Pet Hydrated
1. Fresh, Cool Water—All Day, Every Day
The simplest way to keep your pet hydrated? Ensure they always have access to fresh, cool water.
Replace their water daily and position bowls in shaded areas to keep the water from heating up. If you’re using an outdoor tap, let the water run for a moment before filling their bowl—summer heat can make tap water surprisingly warm at first.
For older pets or those with mobility concerns, place multiple water sources around your home or yard. This way, they won’t have to travel far to take a drink when they need it most.
2. Choose the Right Bowl
Not all bowls are created equal when it comes to hydration. Ceramic bowls are a great choice because they help keep water cool longer — and they don’t heat up like metal ones.
Avoid plastic bowls if possible as they can develop bacteria and algae more easily, especially in warm weather. If you are using them, make sure you clean them regularly.
3. Encourage Drinking with Flowing Water
Some pets prefer moving water over still water — especially cats! Pet water fountains mimic natural running streams and can encourage your pet to drink more. They also keep water filtered and oxygenated, making it more appealing for picky drinkers.
4. Hydration Through Diet
Adding moisture to your pet’s diet is another easy way to boost their water intake. Wet food naturally contains more water than kibble, making it a great summer option.
If your pet prefers dry food, try soaking kibble in water before serving. This not only increases hydration but also makes food easier to chew, which can be helpful for senior pets.
5. Frozen Treats for Extra Hydration
A fun way to keep pets cool and hydrated is by making frozen treats. Try freezing water — or low-sodium bone broth, if you have dogs or cats — with a few of their favorite treats mixed in.
There are also freezable interactive toys designed for this purpose — your pet will love chewing on a homemade ice block while cooling off at the same time. It’s fun in the sun; and it’s healthy.
Keep Hydration a Priority
Summer fun is even better when pets stay hydrated and happy. By ensuring they have fresh, cool water, the right feeding options, and even a few frozen treats, you’ll keep them safe from the heat all season long.