1 July marks the start of National Pet Hydration Awareness Month, an event created to highlight the dangers of heat exposure and the vital role hydration plays in keeping pets healthy
As the UK enters the height of summer, veterinary pharmacy Direct4Pet is encouraging pet owners to be alert to the signs of dehydration and take simple steps to ensure their pets stay properly hydrated.
The warning coincides with the start of National Pet Hydration Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness of the health risks associated with dehydration in pets.
According to Direct4Pet, adequate hydration plays a vital role in supporting organ function, digestion, joint lubrication, nutrient transport and temperature regulation. However, many cats and dogs do not consume enough water, particularly during periods of hot weather.
Warning signs of dehydration
Direct4Pet Director Garry Howard said pet owners should be aware of the symptoms of dehydration, which can worsen quickly if left untreated.
Signs include:
- Lethargy or unusual tiredness
- Sunken eyes
- Dry gums
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive panting
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Thick saliva
- Dark yellow urine
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
"If you notice these signs, you must act fast to get fluids back into your pet," said Howard.
Which pets are most at risk?
While dehydration can affect any pet, the risk increases during hot weather, after exercise, following illness or surgery, and in older animals whose organ function naturally declines with age.
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and Persian cats are also more susceptible because they find it harder to regulate their body temperature.
Tips for keeping pets hydrated
To help pets stay hydrated throughout the summer, Direct4Pet recommends:
- Providing multiple bowls of fresh water around the home and garden
- Using a pet water fountain for animals that prefer running water
- Including wet food in meals to increase moisture intake
- Offering pet-safe frozen treats, such as low-sodium chicken broth ice cubes or frozen seedless melon
- Carrying fresh water and a portable bowl when travelling or exercising pets
Growing demand for pet hydration drinks
Hydration products formulated specifically for pets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with electrolyte drinks designed to help replenish fluids more effectively than water alone in certain situations.
These products may be beneficial for active dogs after exercise, pets recovering from mild digestive upset, animals travelling during the summer, and older pets that are reluctant to drink.
Direct4Pet stresses that owners should only use hydration products made specifically for cats and dogs and should never offer pets human sports drinks.
Cats need extra encouragement
Howard also highlighted that cats can be particularly prone to dehydration because they naturally have a lower thirst drive, inherited from their desert-dwelling ancestors.
This means many cats live in a mild state of dehydration, making it especially important for owners to encourage fluid intake, particularly in senior cats or those fed predominantly dry food.
"Hydration is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health," said Howard. "Whether you're supporting an active dog, encouraging an older cat to drink more, or helping a pet recover from illness, the right hydration support can make a real difference."