Importance of deworming and vaccination in pets
Having a pet is like having a furry roommate who thinks you’re the greatest person ever! From endless cuddles to funny little habits, pets add happiness to our lives. But…
In health, nearly 60% of an animal’s body weight is water, which means that, just like humans, animals need water for their organs and systems to work smoothly.
Many pet owners overlook the importance of monitoring hydration. Learn why hydration is important, how to recognize signs of dehydration or good hydration in pets, and what you can do to keep your pet hydrated.
Supports Digestion: Water breaks down food and absorbs nutrients, keeping digestion smooth and reducing the risk of digestive issues.
Regulates Body Temperature: Pets use water to cool their bodies, especially in warm weather.
Helps in Organ Function: Water is important for kidney health, helping to flush out toxins and prevent kidney stones or infections.
Promotes Joint Health: Water lubricates joints, particularly important for active or older pets.
Boosts Energy Levels: Hydration keeps your pet energetic and ready for playtime. A dehydrated pet becomes lazy or irritable.
Supports Skin or coat health: A well-hydrated pet will have healthier skin and a shiny coat. Good hydration supports the health of skin cells in pets.
Dehydration sneaks up on pets, especially during warmer months or if they are particularly active. Recognize the signs to prevent serious health issues.
Every pet has unique hydration needs based on size, age, activity level, and climate.
Dogs
Generally, dogs need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. A 50-pound dog, for example, should drink around 50 ounces (or a little over six cups) of water each day.
Cats
Cats are smaller and need about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight. If your cat weighs 10 pounds, they should consume around 1 cup of water daily.
Encourage Drinking Water
Bring fresh water to your pet and encourage them to drink. To make the water tasteful, you can add a little flavor, like low-sodium chicken broth.
Moisture-Rich Food
Feed your pet wet food or mix water into dry food to increase their water intake.
Offer Ice Cubes
Some pets enjoy licking ice cubes, which can be a fun way to get extra water. However, avoid giving large amounts to avoid stomach discomfort.
Veterinary Attention
Take your pet to the vet in cases of severe dehydration (e.g., sunken eyes, extreme lethargy). Your little furry friend may need fluid therapy to rehydrate safely.
What should I do if my pet is dehydrated?
Offer fresh water immediately. If your pet refuses to drink or shows severe signs of dehydration, contact your veterinarian for further treatment.
How can I encourage my pet to drink more water?
You can make water more appealing by offering wet food, using a water fountain, or adding ice cubes to their water bowl. You can also try flavoring the water with low-sodium broth.
How can I maintain my pet’s hydration in hot weather?
Ensure they always have access to fresh water and limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. You can also provide cool, shaded areas to regulate their body temperature.
Why is water important for pets?
Measures to take to reduce dehydration
