Pet Hydration Awareness Month is celebrated in July to remind pet owners of the significance of regular hydration in their pets’ lives. Your pet’s body, like a human’s, will not be able to function properly without water.
As pet lovers, we must ensure that the pets around us are hydrated throughout the sweltering summer. We thought that Pet Hydration Awareness Month would be the best time to refresh our knowledge about hydration. Hence, here are a few things you must know this July.
Importance of Hydration in Pets
Water is as important as good food to carry out the optimum body functions. Therefore, if pets don’t get enough water, they may not function well; just like humans. This condition is called dehydration.
When dehydrated, water moves out of a pet’s body cells, resulting in muscle dysfunction and electrolyte imbalance. And, if the condition prevails, it may also lead to organ failure and death.
Water is highly essential for the following functions and many more:
- Carries nutrients in and out of the cells
- Helps in the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients
- Regulates the body temperature
- Cushions the brain and spinal cord
- Lubricates joints
- Improves cognitive functions
- Helps in the blood circulation
- Helps prevent infections and diseases
Signs of Dehydration in Pets
When the temperature rises, keep an eye on your pet to make sure it stays hydrated. Especially, cats, elderly or sick pets, and short-faced (brachycephalic) breeds are more vulnerable to dehydration. Watch out for:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Dry, sticky gums
- Dry nose
- Sunken eyes
- Excessive panting
- Thick saliva
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Lethargy
Ways to Keep Your Pets Hydrated
Dehydration may be crucial. If you want to keep your pets hydrated and healthy, why not try out these things:
- Always provide clean, fresh, and cool water.
- Keep several water bowls at multiple locations for easy access.
- Consider buying water fountains; it encourages pets to drink water.
- Always carry an extra water bottle while traveling with your pets.
- Keep outdoor bowls in a shaded area to keep the water clean and dirt-free.
- Add water to your pet’s meals.
- Let your pets drink water out of leaking taps or faucets whenever they do so.
- Replace dry food with wet food to increase your pet’s water intake.
- Make ice pops with water and your pet’s favorite treats/fruits.
- Add ice cubes or bone broth to your pet’s water bowl to entice them to drink more water.
Above all, remember, your pets cannot come to you saying they’re thirsty. It is your responsibility to watch out for their water intake to prevent dehydration.
Now that you know these simple tips, they will help you keep your four-legged friends healthy, happy, and hydrated throughout the year.
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