Practical advice on pet hydration, from Shires Vets in Staffordshire.<\/p>\n
Getting pets to drink enough water can feel surprisingly tricky, especially with cats. But good hydration is one of the simplest ways to support your pet\u2019s health, energy levels and comfort. The good news is that small changes can make a big difference.<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s an easy, down to earth guide to helping both dogs and cats drink more, what to watch for, and how the team at Shires Vets can help.<\/p>\n
Water helps keep everything ticking along inside your pet\u2019s body.<\/p>\n
Good hydration supports<\/p>\n
Pets that do not drink enough can become dehydrated without owners realising, particularly cats.<\/p>\n
Not all pets are natural big drinkers. If you\u2019ve noticed your cat not drinking water, you\u2019re not alone \u2014 it\u2019s one of the most common questions we hear.<\/p>\n
Common reasons include<\/p>\n
Understanding these habits helps you encourage better drinking without forcing it.<\/p>\n
A cat water fountain is especially popular with cats, but many dogs like them too.<\/p>\n
Benefits of fountains<\/p>\n
If your pet is unsure at first, place the fountain next to their usual bowl and give them time to explore.<\/p>\n
Food can play a big role in water intake.<\/p>\n
Wet food helps because<\/p>\n
You do not always need to switch fully to wet food. Even adding one wet meal a day can help boost overall hydration.<\/p>\n
The team at Shires Vets can advise on the right balance for your pet.<\/p>\n
Small tweaks often work best.<\/p>\n
Try<\/p>\n
Some pets prefer quiet corners, others like drinking where you are. Let them choose.<\/p>\n
Pets do not always show dog dehydration signs or feline equivalents clearly.<\/p>\n
Keep an eye out for<\/p>\n
If you are worried, it is always better to check.<\/p>\n
Tweaks at home are great for the day-to-day, but a noticeable change in how much your pet is drinking is worth a proper conversation with the practice rather than just adjusting their bowl.<\/p>\n
A clear increase in drinking can sometimes be an early sign of conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, an overactive thyroid in cats, or Cushing\u2019s disease in dogs. A sudden drop in drinking, especially in cats, is also a red flag and shouldn\u2019t be ignored.<\/p>\n
If you spot a change that doesn\u2019t seem to be explained by hot weather, more exercise, or a recent food change, please book an appointment with Shires Vets. Catching these things early often makes a real difference to how easily they can be managed.<\/p>\n
If hydration is a concern, the team at Shires Vets can:<\/p>\n
For older cats with kidney concerns, Shires Vets runs a dedicated senior pet clinic in Staffordshire.<\/p>\n
Encouraging pets to drink more does not need to be complicated. A cleaner bowl, a fountain, or a bit more wet food can all make a difference. The key is finding what works for your dog or cat and sticking with it. If you are unsure, have a chat with Shires Vets. A quick check now can help prevent problems later and keep your pet feeling their best.<\/p>\n
As a rough guide, dogs need around 50 to 60 ml of water per kg of body weight per day. Active or hot-weather days will be higher. Wet food contributes towards this.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>
Many cats prefer moving water, dislike bowls placed near food or litter, and have low natural thirst drives. Try a ceramic or metal bowl, a fountain, or adding a wet meal to boost overall fluid intake.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>
A clear, sustained increase in drinking can be an early sign of kidney disease, diabetes, or Cushing’s disease in dogs. If your dog is suddenly emptying their bowl much faster than usual, book a vet check.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>
Yes. Older cats with early kidney disease often drink more readily from flowing water. Fountains are a simple, low-cost way to support hydration in senior cats. Your vet may also recommend a renal diet alongside.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n
To book online or check availability, visit here<\/a>. You can also call us on 01785 813955<\/span><\/a>, or pop into Shires Vets:<\/p>\n Stone: 01785 813955<\/span><\/a> | View our opening times<\/a><\/p>\n Stafford: 01785 245610<\/span><\/a> | View our opening times<\/a><\/p>\n Eaton Park: 01782 214683<\/span><\/a> | View our opening times<\/a><\/p>\n Eccleshall: 01785 907185<\/a> (small animal), 01785 850218<\/a> (Farm and equine) | View our opening times<\/a><\/p>\n Gnosall: 01785 823713<\/span><\/a> | View our opening times<\/a><\/p>\n For out-of-hours emergencies please view our emergency resources<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Practical advice on pet hydration, from Shires Vets in Staffordshire. Getting pets to drink enough water can feel surprisingly tricky, especially with cats. But good hydration is one of the simplest ways to support your pet\u2019s health, energy levels and comfort. The good news is that small… <\/p>\n