Practical advice on pet hydration, from Riversmeet Vets in Tamworth.
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 an easy, down to earth guide to helping both dogs and cats drink more, what to watch for, and how the team at Riversmeet Vets can help.
Why water really matters
Water helps keep everything ticking along inside your pet’s body.
Good hydration supports
- Healthy kidneys and bladder
- Digestion and appetite
- Temperature control, especially in warm weather
- Joint and muscle function
- Overall energy and wellbeing
Pets that do not drink enough can become dehydrated without owners realising, particularly cats.
Why some pets do not drink much
Not all pets are natural big drinkers. If you’ve noticed your cat not drinking water, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we hear.
Common reasons include
- Cats prefer moving water
- Bowls placed near food or litter trays
- Water that is not fresh enough
- Stress or changes at home
- Feeding mainly dry food
Understanding these habits helps you encourage better drinking without forcing it.
Water fountains: why they help
A cat water fountain is especially popular with cats, but many dogs like them too.
Benefits of fountains
- Flowing water smells fresher to pets
- Encourages curiosity and play
- Often leads to more frequent drinking
- Keeps water cooler and cleaner
If your pet is unsure at first, place the fountain next to their usual bowl and give them time to explore.
Wet food and hydration
Food can play a big role in water intake.
Wet food helps because
- It contains much more moisture than dry food
- It adds water without your pet having to drink
- It can support urinary health, especially in cats
You do not always need to switch fully to wet food. Even adding one wet meal a day can help boost overall hydration.
The team at Riversmeet Vets can advise on the right balance for your pet.
Simple ways to encourage drinking
Small tweaks often work best.
Try
- Using ceramic or metal bowls instead of plastic
- Placing multiple water bowls around the house
- Refreshing water at least once a day
- Adding a splash of water to food if suitable
- Offering ice cubes as a treat for dogs in warm weather
Some pets prefer quiet corners, others like drinking where you are. Let them choose.
Hydration signs to watch for
Pets do not always show dog dehydration signs or feline equivalents clearly.
Keep an eye out for
- Lethargy or low energy
- Dry gums
- Reduced appetite
- Dark or strong smelling urine
- In cats, fewer visits to the litter tray
If you are worried, it is always better to check.
When a sudden change in drinking is worth a vet check
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.
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.
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 Riversmeet Vets. Catching these things early often makes a real difference to how easily they can be managed.
How your vet can help
If hydration is a concern, the team at Riversmeet Vets can:
- Check for dehydration or underlying issues
- Advise on diet choices to support water intake
- Help manage kidney or urinary conditions
- Recommend practical changes that suit your pet
For older cats with kidney concerns, Riversmeet Vets runs a dedicated senior pet clinic in Tamworth.
Keep it simple and consistent
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 Riversmeet Vets. A quick check now can help prevent problems later and keep your pet feeling their best.
Quick answers
Do I still need a Pet Passport to take my dog to Europe from the UK?
No. UK-issued Pet Passports are no longer valid for travel from Great Britain to the EU. You now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), issued no more than 10 days before travel by an Official Veterinarian.
How long does an Animal Health Certificate take?
AHC appointments themselves are usually around 30 to 45 minutes. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel. At Riversmeet Vets, we recommend booking at least a month in advance to be safe.
What is Leishmaniasis and which countries is it a risk in?
Leishmaniasis is a serious disease spread by sandflies in warmer climates. It is most relevant for travel to Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Malta. Prevention is via repellent collars and topical treatments — speak to your vet 4 to 6 weeks before travel.
Can my brachycephalic dog (e.g. French Bulldog, Pug) fly?
Many airlines restrict or refuse short-nosed breeds because of the risk of breathing problems at altitude. Check with the airline well in advance and discuss with your vet whether flying is suitable for your specific dog.
How to book and contact us
To book online or check availability, visit here. You can also call us on 01827 63841 or pop into Riversmeet Vets:
Tamworth: 01827 63841 | View our opening times
Atherstone: 01827 720720 | View our opening times
For out-of-hours emergencies please view our emergency resources.
