Proper hydration plays an important role in your pet’s kidney function, digestion and temperature regulation. Depending on their size and the food they eat, animals need different quantities of fluid to stay healthy. A cat fed purely on kibble will need to drink more than a cat fed wet food, because the latter contains much more moisture. With that in mind, let’s explore what keeping hydrated means for every cat or dog.
How much water should dogs and cats drink?
In general terms, most healthy cats and dogs need around 50-60 ml per kg of body weight each day (including the water content in their food). Drinking consistently more than 100 ml/kg per day may be considered excessive and could potentially be a sign of illness, such as diabetes or kidney disease. However, water intake can naturally increase during hot weather or after exercise. If your cat or dog is constantly drinking, it’s best to speak to your vet so they can rule out any underlying health issues.
How can I tell if my cat or dog is dehydrated?
If you suspect your pet may not be drinking enough, or may be dehydrated, there are a few simple checks you can make.
- Do not rely on the temperature or wetness of the nose alone – this is largely a myth.
- The gums should be moist and pink, as dehydration can cause them to become dry and tacky.
- Your pet’s skin should spring back quickly if you gently pull on the scruff at the back of the neck. If it returns slowly (or stays in a tent shape) your pet may be dehydrated and should be checked by a vet.
- Keep an eye on your pet if they’ve become lethargic or have diarrhoea, as both can contribute to dehydration.
What can I do if my cat or dog isn’t interested in water?
If your pet doesn’t seem to be drinking as much as they should, it may be due to fussiness over their water. Here are some helpful tips:
- Have fresh water available at all times and replace it daily, or more often if their bowl becomes dirty or empty.
- Pets that enjoy drinking from the shower tray or toilet bowl may simply like variety. Try placing water bowls in different locations around the home (quiet spots usually work best).
- If your furry friend loves drinking from the tap but ignores their water bowl, a water fountain may be perfect for them. Plus, it can help keep water cooler and fresher during the summer months.
- Cats drinking from unexpected places may enjoy stronger flavours or smells, in which case adding a little unsalted tuna water or salmon oil to their bowl may encourage them to drink more.
How many water bowls should I have per pet?
If you live with several animals, have at least one water bowl per pet (with additional bowls around the home being even better). Make sure they are placed somewhere calm with little foot traffic, especially for cats. Animals like to feel relaxed and safe when they eat and drink.
Keeping your pet hydrated doesn’t have to be complicated. Fresh water, the right feeding setup and paying attention to changes in drinking habits can all help keep cats and dogs bright-eyed and bushy-tailed – exactly as they should be.
