Keeping your pets hydrated this summer

When your pets are dehydrated, they can’t fetch themselves a glass of water like we do or tell us they’re thirsty. They rely on us to know when they need water. Here are some tips to monitor your pet’s hydration and make sure they have what they need as the temperatures start to climb.

Dogs can dehydrate faster than you might expect, especially in warm weather, as they lose moisture through panting and heat exposure. But just because a cat isn’t tugging at a lead, it doesn’t mean they’re not also at risk from dehydration. Just like us, pets need hydration to regulate their temperature, digestion, joint health, and organ function. Dehydration is incredibly dangerous and can increase the risk of heatstroke, kidney issues and other complications.

How to spot the signs of dehydration

Spotting dehydration in pets can be tricky and many signs are subtle, vary between animals, and often appear late. Rather than relying on any single sign, look for overall changes in your pet's behaviour and comfort, especially in warmer weather.

Some signs that may indicate dehydration include:

• Dry or tacky gums
• Reduced energy or unusual lethargy
• Panting more than normal
• Darker urine or less frequent urination
• Thick or ropey saliva
• Loss of skin elasticity (this can be unreliable, especially in older or wrinkly breeds)

If you notice any of these warning signs, move your pet into a cool, shady spot and give them water immediately. Try small amounts of water at first If symptoms worsen or don’t improve quickly, contact your vet immediately, as dehydration and heat-related illness can escalate fast.

How to keep your pets hydrated

The hot Kiwi summers mean your pet’s hydration needs a bit more attention than usual. It’s easier to keep ahead of dehydration than to react to symptoms later. Here’s how to stay on top of it and save yourself a vet visit.

• Make sure your pets always have fresh water and refill their bowls multiple times a day. Try adding ice cubes to the water to keep it cool.
• Use ceramic or stainless-steel bowls as they stay cooler for longer.
• Set up multiple water stations in large homes, including one outside.
• You can lead a cat to water, but you can’t make it drink. Cats are fussy drinkers, but they love running water. Try a pet water fountain or turn the tap on for a minute or so. Cats prefer water away from food areas and shallow, wide bowls are also preferred. Avoid plastic bowls for cats.
• Whip up some frozen treats, like peanut butter cups or pate cubes. See our homemade pet treats for summer for some easy ideas.
• Mix water into your pet’s dry food or switch to moisture-rich wet food.
• Always take water with you when you go out. A collapsible bowl or pet-safe water bottle means you’ll never be caught unprepared. Make sure your pet is getting small, regular drinks.

Keep it cool, and stay safe

A well-hydrated pet is a happy, healthy pet, and little planning goes a long way. By being proactive and knowing the warning signs of dehydration, nothing needs to interrupt the fun times this summer for you and your pets.