Jul 15, 2023 | By, For Pet's Sake
Keep your furry friend hydrated this summer!
As pet owners, we always want what’s best for our furry friends. Especially during summer days, we need to make sure that our pets are safe from the heat and dehydration. Cats and dogs, just like humans, need to stay hydrated to keep their bodies working properly. It is important to be aware of their water intake, especially during the hot summer months. Here are some tips on how you can properly hydrate your pets and keep them safe and healthy this summer!
Water is key!
Water is the most important element in keeping your pet hydrated. Make sure to provide a separate, clean bowl for fresh water daily. If you notice your furry friend isn’t drinking water as much as they should be, try to entice them by adding ice cubes to their water bowl or even adding wet food to their dry food.
Water drinking schedule
Alongside with knowing the importance of water, understanding the water drinking schedule is a must. As a general rule of thumb, pets should drink an ounce of water per pound of weight daily. To monitor their intake, note their drinking habits and change the water once to twice per day.
Keep your pets cool
Aside from drinking water regularly, keeping your pet cool is also essential. To maintain hydration, pets should not be exposed to direct sunlight or hot temperatures for long periods of time. Provide shaded areas and let your pets rest on cool surfaces, like tiles or air-conditioned rooms to prevent excess heat exhaustion.
Fruits and vegetables to promote hydration
Did you know that fruits and vegetables can help hydrate your cat or dog too? Adding a few slices of watermelon or cucumbers can help them replenish their water and mineral intake naturally.
Supplement with electrolytes
Depending on the level of heat and the amount of daily physical exercise, owners can add electrolyte supplements to the pet’s water bowl. Electrolytes help replenish fluids and lost minerals during sweating and panting. You can consult with your veterinarian for proper recommendations on which type and dosage to use.
Always keep in mind that our furry friends need our attention and care especially during hot summer days. Proper hydration plays an important part in maintaining the health and safety of our pets. Make sure to provide water regularly, keep your pets in a cool environment, add some fruits and vegetable bites, and consider electrolyte supplements during hot weather to keep your furry friend’s water intake and health in tip-top shape!
Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insight to giving your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet’s Sake! Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.
