As a pet parent, it can be tricky to keep track of how much water your pet drinks. I mean, it’s already hard enough for us to keep track of our own hydration so how can we keep track of our pets’?
Staying properly hydrated is crucial for the health of your pet. Just like humans, pets depend on water for regulating body temperature, blood flow and healthy digestion. Water is essential for the bodies of all pets, just as it is essential for life in general.
How much water does our pet need?
Our pets need fresh, clean water every day. It is recommended in a 24-hour period, for a healthy dog to drink 60-80ml of water per kilogram of body weight. If your dog weighs 5kg, this would amount to 300-400ml of water. Cats have a lower recommended intake, with the ideal amount being 40-60ml per kilogram of body weight. If your cat is 4.5kg, this would mean 180-370ml of water per day.
That said, the amount of water intake differs according to different stages of life. For instance, those who are more active, pregnant or recently gave birth would need more water compared to others. Puppies or kittens tend to drink more water than adults because they are growing and are much more active. If your pet is eating food that contains water, they might drink slightly less because they are getting water content from their food.
The amount of water your pet needs each day would also vary based on the weather and amount of physical activity. The best way to ensure your pet is getting enough water is by monitoring their water bowl and behaviour. Dry or white gums, loss of energy and constant panting are signs of dehydration. If your pet is severely dehydrated, you should always take them to a vet for professional care.
Why won’t my pet drink water?
All pets have unique personalities, and they may or may not like drinking water. There could be several reasons why your dog or cat are not drinking water. Sometimes a change in scenery or an unfamiliar location could cause them to deviate from their regular drinking habits. It could also be an indicator that your pet is sick, so be sure to check for any other signs of illness.
It is our responsibility as pet owners to ensure they are consuming sufficient amounts of water. If you feel that your pet’s fluid intake is inadequate, it may help to introduce a water fountain. Moving water can make water more appealing for both cats and dogs and could help encourage your pet to drink water. Alternatively, adding ice to their water bowl could entice them to drink more water as some pets enjoy licking ice. You could also place several water bowls around the house. The more convenient it is, the more likely your pet will drink!
Do our pets sweat?
Both dogs and cats have sweat glands in their paw pads. As their paws don’t have much surface area to help cool them down, they rely heavily on other methods to chill out. Panting is a dog’s way of expelling heat. By allowing air to reach their tongue and mouth, they can cool down more quickly and evaporate most of their internal heat. Cats on the other hand use a mental tactic to cool off by stretching out on cooler surfaces, climbing into a shady spot or drinking more water.
Is it possible for pets to drink too much water?
One of the wonders of the body is its ability to maintain hydration at all times unless water is scarce or other stressful factors are involved. Notice your pets drinking and urinating excessively? These symptoms are known as polyuria/polydipsia and could indicate serious underlying conditions such as diabetes, kidney insufficiency, bladder infections or hormonal disorders. When this occurs, take them to our veterinarian immediately.
Understanding your pet’s water needs, as well as the frequency of urination during good health is essential. This allows you to be able to identify the signs more quickly and get treatment without delay.
Our pets can’t talk, so they are dependent on us to ensure that they stay hydrated. Keeping them hydrated is especially important during and after any form of physical activity. A good gauge for you to identify if your pets are thirsty, is when you feel thirsty yourself. Stay alert and observe if your pets are panting and looking for water. It may take some trial and error, but eventually you’ll discover the best hydrating methods your pet enjoys.
Any views or opinions communicated on this page belong to the author and do not represent the views or opinions of any other organizations. This article is meant for us to share our own views and opinions in general. Kindly consult a professional if you would like to seek professional advice.
Adopted from sources
– How Much Water Should My Dog Or Cat Drink? By Emancipet.
(https://emancipet.org/blog/2021/07/how-much-water-should-my-dog-or-cat-drink/)
– Hydration For Pets: How Much Is Enough?
(https://hastingsvet.com/hydration-much-enough/)
– Is Your Pet Getting Enough Water?
(https://www.lifesourcewater.com/blog/is-your-pet-getting-enough-water)
– Images of dogs and cats, Pexels, Pixabay.
(https://www.pexels.com/photo/soaked-wet-long-coated-dog-opens-mouth-at-water-streams-on-green-grass-1044056/
https://pixabay.com/photos/dog-drink-water-thirst-bang-race-1378087/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-a-cat-drinking-water-9881128/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/cute-cat-resting-on-tower-near-wall-4790616/)
