As temperatures rise and summer settles in, keeping your pets properly hydrated becomes more important than ever. Whether you have a playful pup, a curious cat, or a small furry friend, hydration plays a vital role in their overall health and wellbeing. Pets are more susceptible to dehydration during the warmer months, especially when they are more active, spending time outdoors, or exposed to heat for extended periods.

Why Hydration Matters

Water is essential for every function in your pet's body – from regulating body temperature to aiding digestion, cushioning joints, and eliminating waste through urine. Adequate hydration helps keep your pet’s skin healthy, coat shiny, and organs functioning efficiently. Just like in humans, water makes up a large percentage of a pet's body weight, and even a small drop in hydration levels can have noticeable effects.

When pets become dehydrated, their blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs decrease, which can lead to serious complications. Chronic dehydration can also contribute to long-term issues like urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or kidney disease.

Signs Your Pet Might Be Dehydrated

It’s not always obvious when a pet is dehydrated, and they can’t tell us when they're feeling thirsty. Here are some key signs to look out for:

• Dry nose or gums: A normally moist nose may become cracked or dry.

• Lethargy or decreased activity: Your pet may seem more tired or sluggish than usual.

• Sunken eyes: A noticeable sign especially in more severe dehydration.

• Loss of skin elasticity: Gently pinch the skin at the back of your pet's neck; if it doesn’t snap back quickly, dehydration may be present.

• Panting or rapid breathing: Particularly common in dogs, but also a concern in cats if excessive.

• Loss of appetite or vomiting: Dehydration can affect digestion and interest in food.

If you notice any of these symptoms, offer your pet water immediately. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Tips to Keep Your Pet Hydrated

Always Have Fresh Water Available
Provide clean, cool water at all times, and place multiple bowls throughout the house and garden. Refill them frequently to ensure they stay fresh.

Munch & Crunch Double Diner Pet Bowls £6.29 and Buster Incredibowl For Long Eared Dogs £17.89

Add Water to Their Meals
Enhance hydration by adding water, low-sodium broth, or pet-safe hydration supplements to dry kibble or canned food. Wet food also naturally contains more moisture.

Offer Ice Cubes as Treats
Ice cubes can be a fun and cooling snack, especially for dogs. For extra flavour, freeze low-sodium broth or pureed fruits like watermelon or blueberries.

Keep It Cool
Avoid outdoor activity during peak heat hours (typically between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Always walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening and provide shaded rest areas.

Use a Pet Water Fountain
Cats, in particular, are often picky drinkers. A fountain with moving, filtered water can encourage them to drink more regularly.

Travel Smart
If you’re heading out for a trip or hike, bring a collapsible water bowl or a pet-specific portable water bottle to keep hydration easy and convenient.

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

Monitor Activity Levels
Active pets lose more fluids through panting and movement. Ensure they have time to cool down and drink after play or walks.

Products That Help

There are a range of hydration-supportive products designed to make summer safer and more comfortable for your pets:

• Pet Water Fountains – Encourage regular drinking with filtered, flowing water that's appealing and fresh.

• Portable Water Bottles & Bowls – Ideal for walks, hikes, or travel, these let you hydrate your pet on the go without mess or waste.

• Electrolyte Solutions & Hydration Boosters – Designed specifically for pets, these can help restore essential fluids and nutrients after exertion, illness, or heat exposure.

Oralade GI Oral Rehydration Fluid Support Drink For Pets £42.69 and Oralade Active Isotonic Hydration Fluid For Dogs 250ml £6.39

• Cooling Bowls – Special bowls that keep water cooler for longer, encouraging pets to drink more frequently.

• Cooling Mats and Vests – While not hydration products per se, they help regulate body temperature and reduce the risk of heat exhaustion, which lowers the risk of dehydration.

Ancol Cooling Dog Coat £12.39 and All For Paws Chill Out Ice Dog Cooling Bandana £6.59

Staying Hydrated With Direct4Pet

Hydration is a simple yet critical component of your pet’s summer health. By staying proactive and attentive to their water intake, you can help prevent discomfort and more serious health issues. Whether you’re at home, on a walk, or enjoying a family holiday, making hydration a top priority will ensure your pets stay happy, healthy, and safe.