National Pet Hydration Awareness Month: The Complete Guide to Keeping Your Pet Properly Hydrated This Summer

by Grace Briggs

As temperatures rise and long summer days set in, it's not just us humans who feel the heat—our pets do too. July is officially National Pet Hydration Awareness Month in the UK, and it's the perfect reminder that hydration is vital to your pet’s health and wellbeing.

Just like you wouldn’t head out on a sunny day without a bottle of water, your furry companions need extra attention to stay hydrated—whether lounging at home, playing in the garden, or accompanying you on adventures.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

  • Why hydration is so important for pets

  • How much water your dog or cat really needs

  • Signs of dehydration you should never ignore

  • Practical tips to encourage pets to drink more

  • The best pet hydration products (that actually help!)

  • How breed, size, and diet affect hydration needs

Let’s dive in! 

Why Pet Hydration Matters More Than You Might Think

Water is the single most important nutrient in your pet’s body. It’s essential for digestion, temperature regulation, joint lubrication, nutrient absorption, and organ function.

Even mild dehydration (5–10%) can lead to lethargy, overheating, kidney strain, and serious medical conditions. And because animals can’t say “I’m thirsty,” it’s up to us to proactively provide opportunities to hydrate.

Pets are particularly at risk in summer because:

  • They can’t sweat like humans and rely on panting to cool down

  • They’re more active during walks or outdoor play

  • Some may not feel the urge to drink even when they need to

This is especially true for older pets, brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, and cats, who are notoriously poor drinkers.

How Much Water Do Pets Actually Need?

The basic rule of thumb:

  • Dogs: 50–60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day

  • Cats: 45–60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day

That means:

  • A 10kg dog (e.g., a Border Terrier) needs about 500–600 ml per day

  • A 25kg dog (e.g., a Labrador) needs 1.25–1.5 litres per day

  • A 4kg cat should drink around 200–240 ml per day

However, these needs can double in hot weather, or after exercise, play, or long walks. Pets on dry food diets also require more water than those on wet food.

Tip: If you're unsure, measure out your pet's daily water once to gauge how much they actually consume—and adjust if needed.

Warning Signs: How to Tell If Your Pet Is Dehydrated

Pets are good at hiding discomfort, so dehydration often goes unnoticed. Here are common red flags to look for:

Physical Signs:

  • Dry, sticky gums

  • Excessive panting

  • Sunken eyes

  • Lethargy or weakness

  • Loss of skin elasticity - (Pinch a small fold of skin at the back of the neck; if it doesn’t snap back quickly, your pet may be dehydrated)

Behavioural Changes:

  • Refusing food or treats

  • Restlessness or pacing

  • Avoiding exercise or walks

If symptoms are severe or you suspect heatstroke, seek veterinary help immediately.

10 Smart Ways to Keep Your Pet Hydrated (Without Forcing It)

Some pets naturally love water. Others? Not so much. Here are easy, effective ways to encourage hydration:

  1. Place multiple water bowls around your home and garden—especially in warm spots.

  2. Refresh water regularly; many pets dislike warm or stale water.

  3. Use a pet water fountain – Running water is more appealing and instinctively encourages drinking.

  4. Switch to wet food or mix in low-sodium bone broth to dry kibble for moisture.

  5. Offer frozen treats like pet-safe ice cubes with fruit, meat broth, or yogurt.

  6. Try hydration boosters or pet-friendly electrolyte drinks.

  7. Bring a water bottle and collapsible bowl on walks—especially during the midday heat.

  8. Add a splash of tuna water (for cats) or bone broth (for dogs) to water bowls for enticing flavour.

  9. Keep water bowls in the shade outdoors, and avoid metal bowls that can heat up in the sun.

  10. Praise or reward pets when they drink to reinforce the behaviour.

Best Products to Support Pet Hydration 

Pet Water Fountains

  • Keeps water filtered, oxygenated, and cool

  • Great for cats or picky dogs

  • Encourages drinking through flowing motion

Travel Water Bottles & Collapsible Bowls

  • A must-have for hikes, park trips, or road travel

  • Easy, mess-free way to hydrate on the go

Henry Wag Water Bottle with Leaf Bowl Grey 500ml £14.99 and Doggyrade Collapsible Silicone Travel Bowl For Dogs £5.65

Hydrating Treats, Broths & Jelly Toppers

  • Ideal for pets that don’t drink enough on their own

  • Delicious AND functional

Karnlea Bone Broth Food Supplement Topper for Dogs and Cats 500ml £11.34 and Oralade GI Oral Rehydration Fluid Support Drink For Pets £9.40

Cooling Mats, Bowls & Accessories

  • Helps regulate body temperature and reduce water loss through panting

Henry Wag Pet Cool Mat £7.99 and Ancol Cooling Dog Coat £12.39

Does Breed, Age, or Diet Affect Hydration Needs?

Yes! Hydration isn’t one-size-fits-all. Factors to consider:

  • Puppies & kittens need more frequent access to water than adults.

  • Senior pets may drink less and dehydrate more easily.

  • Brachycephalic breeds (like Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) struggle to pant efficiently and overheat faster.

  • Cats on dry kibble may only get 5–10% of their daily water from food—wet food provides up to 80%.

  • Active breeds like Border Collies or Spaniels need more post-exercise hydration.

Final Thoughts

Proper hydration isn't just a summer issue—it's a year-round responsibility. But National Pet Hydration Awareness Month offers the perfect opportunity to educate, empower, and equip pet parents with the knowledge and tools they need to keep their beloved companions cool, comfortable, and well-cared for.

At Direct4Pet, we’re proud to support your pet’s health every step of the way.
Explore our full range of hydration solutions, and let’s make this summer a safe, splashy success.

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