July is National Pet Hydration Awareness Month
Summer is here, and that means it’s time to keep cool! Not just for ourselves, but for our furry friends, too! July is National Pet Hydration Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of keeping pets properly hydrated during the hottest days of the year.
Just like us, pets rely on water to stay healthy and active. In fact, while human bodies are about 60% water, our pets’ bodies are around 80% water, meaning hydration is even more critical for them. Without enough water, pets can experience decreased energy, digestive issues, and even life-threatening dehydration.
How Much Water Does Your Pet Need?
Dogs need about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day. For example, a 16-pound dog would require 16 ounces of water a day.
Cats need around 4–6 ounces per 5 pounds of body weight daily. A 10-pound cat should drink roughly 8-12 ounces of water per day.
5 Signs Your Pet May Be Dehydrated
Keep an eye out for these early warning signs:
Loss of Appetite – Dehydration can interfere with digestion and reduce hunger, resulting in a loss of appetite.
Excessive Panting – Even after mild activity, excessive panting may signal low hydration.
Lack of Skin Elasticity – Gently pull the skin between your pet’s shoulder blades. If it doesn’t bounce back quickly, they may be dehydrated.
Dry Nose and Gums – Sticky or dry gums and a dry nose are often red flags, and are the most noticeable symptoms of dehydration.
Lethargy – Dehydrated pets may seem tired, sluggish, or uninterested in activity.
3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Pet Hydrated
Refill Their Bowl Daily - Make it a habit to refresh your pet’s water bowl each day, and give it a good clean to keep things safe and sanitary.
Set a Reminder - If you use alarms to remind yourself to hydrate, do the same for your pet! Set a few throughout the day to check their bowl and refill as needed.
Do a Gum Check - Your pet’s mouth can say a lot. Healthy gums should be moist and slick; if they’re dry or sticky, it's time to call your vet.
As temperatures rise, it’s easy to miss the signs of dehydration, especially since they can mimic other heat-related issues. The best defense is simple: keep fresh water accessible at all times and pay close attention to your pet’s behavior.
Let’s help our pets stay cool, hydrated, and safe all summer long!
Have questions or need help with your pet’s health? Contact our Bredel Veterinary Clinic at 301.387.7729 or visit us at www.hartforanimals.org to learn more about our services. We’re here to help you care for your best friend!