Helping your pet stay hydrated

This guide was AI-drafted from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and reviewed before publishing.

Why hydration matters

Water plays a vital role in almost every bodily function your pet has - from digesting food and regulating body temperature to keeping joints moving smoothly and flushing out waste. Even mild, ongoing dehydration can put a strain on your pet's kidneys and overall health over time. Making sure your pet drinks enough is one of the simplest things you can do to support their long-term wellbeing.

How much water does my pet need?

There is no single figure that applies to every animal, as needs vary depending on species, size, age, diet, activity level and the weather. As a general rule, dogs tend to drink noticeably more than cats, and cats in particular are known for having a naturally low thirst drive - something worth keeping in mind if your cat eats mainly dry food. Pets that eat wet food will already be taking in some moisture through their meals, which can reduce how much they drink from a bowl. If you are ever unsure whether your pet is drinking enough, your vet is the best person to ask.

Practical tips to encourage drinking

Place several water bowls around your home so your pet always has easy access, especially if you have a large house or a less mobile older animal. Many cats prefer their water source to be away from their food bowl - try moving the bowl to a different spot and see if that helps. Some pets are drawn to moving water, so a pet drinking fountain can be a worthwhile investment. Change the water at least once a day and give the bowl a proper wash regularly, as stale or slightly slimy water is often off-putting to animals. In warm weather or after exercise, make sure fresh water is always available and top it up more frequently.

Bowl choices and water quality

The material of the bowl can make a difference. Stainless steel and ceramic bowls are generally easy to keep clean and do not harbour bacteria as readily as scratched plastic ones. Some pets are sensitive to the smell of plastic, which may put them off drinking. Use a bowl that is wide enough for your pet to drink from comfortably - cats in particular can dislike their whiskers touching the sides. Tap water is perfectly safe for pets in most parts of the UK, though if you notice your pet seems reluctant to drink, trying filtered water occasionally is a harmless experiment.

Signs your pet may not be drinking enough

A pet that is dehydrated may seem quieter or more lethargic than usual, have a dry or tacky mouth, sunken-looking eyes, or skin that is slow to spring back when gently lifted. Their urine may appear darker than normal, or they may urinate less often. These signs can also point to other health issues, so it is important not to try to diagnose the cause yourself. If you notice any of these changes, contact your vet promptly rather than waiting to see if things improve on their own.

When to call a vet

Contact your vet straight away if your pet seems very unwell, has not drunk anything for an extended period, is vomiting repeatedly, has diarrhoea, or you suspect they may have eaten or drunk something harmful. Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and needs professional treatment - do not attempt to manage it at home. If your usual vet is closed, look for an out-of-hours or emergency veterinary service in your area. When in doubt, always call - vets are happy to advise you over the phone.