Keeping your pets well-hydrated is essential for their overall health. Proper hydration supports digestion, kidney function, temperature regulation, and joint health in both dogs and cats. However, many pets don’t drink enough water, especially during colder months or when fed primarily dry food.
In this article, you’ll discover non-veterinary, practical tips to encourage your dogs and cats to drink more water daily.
Why Hydration Matters for Pets
Water plays critical roles in your pet’s body:
- Regulates body temperature
- Aids in digestion and nutrient absorption
- Helps flush toxins from the body
- Supports healthy skin and coat
- Maintains proper organ function
Dehydration can lead to serious health issues like urinary tract infections, kidney problems, or heat exhaustion.
Signs Your Pet May Not Be Drinking Enough
Watch for these signs of dehydration:
- Dry gums and nose
- Lethargy or low energy
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Reduced appetite
- Dark yellow urine or less frequent urination
If these signs persist, seek professional advice.
Tips to Encourage Dogs to Drink More Water
1. Fresh Water Daily
- Refill water bowls with clean, fresh water at least twice a day.
- Dogs prefer cool, clean water.
2. Multiple Water Stations
- Place water bowls in different rooms.
- Keep bowls accessible, especially for senior dogs or puppies.
3. Use Pet Water Fountains
- Many dogs are attracted to moving water.
- Pet fountains keep water circulating and fresh.
4. Add Flavor
- Add a splash of low-sodium chicken broth (without onions or garlic) to the water.
- Ice cubes with pet-safe flavors can also encourage drinking.
5. Offer Ice Cubes as Treats
- Some dogs love chewing on ice cubes, especially in warm weather.
- Freeze treats or broth in ice cube trays for variety.
6. Use Elevated Bowls
- For larger breeds or dogs with joint issues, elevated bowls can make drinking easier and more comfortable.
Tips to Encourage Cats to Drink More Water
Cats are naturally low water drinkers, especially if fed dry food.
1. Switch to Wet Food
- Canned food contains up to 80% water.
- Mixing wet and dry food can help increase moisture intake.
2. Provide Multiple Bowls
- Place several water bowls around the house.
- Cats like to drink in quiet, low-traffic areas.
3. Offer Different Types of Bowls
- Some cats prefer wide, shallow bowls to avoid whisker fatigue.
- Experiment with ceramic, glass, or stainless steel bowls.
4. Use a Cat Water Fountain
- Flowing water can attract cats who ignore still water.
- Keep the fountain clean and replace filters regularly.
5. Flavor the Water
- Add a small splash of tuna water (from tuna packed in water) to encourage drinking.
- Introduce flavors gradually and observe for any digestive reactions.
6. Keep Water Away from Food and Litter Box
- Cats prefer their water source to be away from food and litter areas.
- Place bowls in spots where your cat naturally spends time.
Keep Bowls Clean
Dirty bowls discourage drinking.
- Wash food and water bowls daily with hot, soapy water.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue.
- Scrub pet fountains at least once a week to prevent slime buildup.
Try Ice Cubes in the Bowl
Adding a couple of ice cubes:
- Keeps water cool.
- Adds a fun element for pets to lick or play with.
- Encourages more frequent visits to the water bowl.
Hydration During Exercise and Play
For active pets:
- Offer water breaks during and after play sessions.
- Carry a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl during walks.
Hydration is especially important during hot weather or high-activity days.
Monitor Your Pet’s Water Intake
Track how much your pet drinks:
- Measure the water you put in the bowl at the start of the day.
- Monitor how much is left by the end of the day.
- If your pet consistently drinks very little, try adjusting strategies.
For multiple-pet households, ensure each pet has their own bowl.
Make Drinking Fun
Turn hydration into a game:
- Let your pet chase dripping water from a slow trickle at the tap (only if safe and supervised).
- Use interactive toys like floating balls in the water bowl for playful pets.
- Offer water-based treats like ice pops made from pet-safe ingredients.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Hydration Benefits
Encouraging your dogs and cats to drink more water doesn’t require drastic measures. By providing fresh water, offering variety, and making small adjustments to your routine, you’ll help your pets stay hydrated, healthy, and happy every day.