This week we will be discussing the importance of pet hydration- when, why, and how often is ideal to allow your pet optimal health.
Why?
Well, that’s obvious; water is an essential ingredient to life. All animals need it to help flush out toxins and to keep organs hydrated. Cats especially need to take in an adequate amount of water to prevent kidney problems, most notably kidney stones and kidney failure.
How much water does my pet need?
The amount of water that your pet needs to drink daily depends on his or her weight, activity level, and diet. Dogs are generally pretty good about regulating their water intake. As long as fresh, clean water is provided they will usually drink the amount their body requires. Keep in mind that with the warmer temperatures around the corner, your dog should also be drinking more to stay fully hydrated.
Cats get most of their water intake from their food. In the wild this is not much of an issue since raw meat contains up to 70% water. Dry food, on the other hand, only contains about 10% moisture. Some cats will supplement their food with extra drinking water and others are a little pickier.
Be sure to look for these symptoms if you suspect that your pet is dehydrated:
• Sunken Eyes
• Lethargy
• Loss of Appetite
• Dry Mouth
• Depression
What if I Suspect
Dehydration?
• Perform the skin test: Gently grab a fold of skin on the back of the neck or between the shoulder blades & release. If the skin snaps back into place, your pet should be okay. If the skin slowly returns to place, your pet could be dehydrated.
If this is the case, have your pet checked by a vet.
If your animal is suffering from chronic dehydration, feel free to book an appointment with ParkGate Animal Hopsital, where our team works to ensure that pets are the healthiest and happiest they can be!
