Practical advice on pet hydration, from Cathcart & Winn in Farnham.<\/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’s health, energy levels and comfort. The good news is that small changes can make a big difference.<\/p>\n
Here’s an easy, down to earth guide to helping both dogs and cats drink more, what to watch for, and how the team at Cathcart & Winn can help.<\/p>\n
Water helps keep everything ticking along inside your pet’s 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’ve noticed your cat not drinking water, you’re not alone \u2014 it’s 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 Cathcart & Winn\u00a0can 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’s disease in dogs. A sudden drop in drinking, especially in cats, is also a red flag and shouldn’t be ignored.<\/p>\n
If you spot a change that doesn’t seem to be explained by hot weather, more exercise, or a recent food change, please book an appointment with Cathcart & Winn. 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 Cathcart & Winn\u00a0can:<\/p>\n
For older cats with kidney concerns, we run a dedicated senior cat clinic at Cathcart & Winn.<\/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 Cathcart & Winn. 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\u00a0here<\/a>. You can also call us on\u00a001252 721191<\/a>, or pop into Cathcart & Winn in Farnham.\u00a0View our opening hours<\/a>. For out-of-hours emergencies please call\u00a001252 721191<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Practical advice on pet hydration, from Cathcart & Winn in Farnham. 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’s health, energy levels and comfort. The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. Here’s … <\/p>\n