Did you know that July is Pet Hydration Month?
With the forecast of a warmer than usual summer expected in many regions this year, we asked the experts at PetSafe® about the importance of hydration for our pets. They kindly provided us with some valuable information to make sure that cat (and dog) owners are aware of the importance of keeping their pets hydrated and healthy this season.
In a recent national survey conducted by PetSafe®, they discovered that as many as 41% of owners do not know how much water to provide their pets each day. 31% also admitted to not knowing what the signs of dehydration are for their pets, which can put their pets at risk in sweltering temperatures.
“Dehydration is a serious concern in dogs and cats and can potentially result in devastating health issues,” says Angela Critchley, PetSafe® brand International Marketing Director. “Dehydration can result in vomiting and diarrhea, as well as urinary tract and kidney infections. If you suspect your pet is dehydrated, it is important to take them to a veterinarian immediately to seek the best medical care available.”
The experts from PetSafe® offered these 4 important tips to beat the heat, and keep your pets healthy and hydrated all summer long:
1. Leave out fresh water for your pet all day long. Only about 30% of pet owners will change out the water bowl once a day. While thirsty pets will drink from almost anything, putting out a fresh bowl of water a couple times a day will encourage your pet to drink more often and stay healthy. You should provide 70 ml of water per kilogram of body weight for your pet.
2. Make arrangements to keep your pet cool while you’re away. Hot, humid days can be miserable. Imagine what it’s like when you have a fur coat you can’t shake off. Make sure your cat or dog has a cool, shaded area to rest in while you are at work. Consider keeping a pet fountain nearby, so your furry friend has access to running, fresh water throughout the day.
We particularly like this PetSafe Drinkwell 360™ Multi-Pet Stainless Steel Fountain
3. Keep an eye out for signs of dehydration. Decreased skin elasticity, lethargic behavior, a lack of appetite and sunken eyes are signs of dehydration in cats and dogs. If you suspect your pet is dehydrated, seek medical attention immediately!
4. Limit outdoor time on very hot days. Many dogs and cats love to frolic outdoors in the summer, but too much time in blistering heat can result in heatstroke. Take your pets out early in the morning or in the evening once the temperatures cool down.
A healthy pet is a happy pet! Following these tips will ensure you and your pet get the most out of the summer months ahead. Check out the infographic below provided by PetSafe® which further outlines how important it is to ensure proper hydration for your pet.
Our thanks for these summer hydration tips to the pet loving experts at PetSafe®
Good tips. Our neighbors cat always comes over to our place for water.
I always have a BIG dish of water out for my indoor only fur baby.
Thank you for this, but the PetSafe graphic is absolutely WRONG about one thing: NO ONE should ever be left in a parked car except a person who has egress. Not in any climate, not in any temperature, not under any circumstances or for any length of time.