With the weather gradually getting warmer, you may notice your pet has an increased thirst – particularly after a walk or a play in the garden.
But have you considered how much extra water is safe to give your cat or dog? Thankfully, vet Ben Simpson-Vernon has the answer and has shared an informative video on the subject to TikTok.
« Normal water consumption is around 50ml per kilo per day, » he began in the clip. « So, if you have a typical, average 4kg cat, they should be drinking roughly 200ml of water. »
Ben continued, explaining that whilst this appears a considerable amount when looking at 200ml in a jug, if your pet enjoys wet food they will be getting a lot water from that – thus reducing his suggested amount. « Also if they’re an outdoor cat they could be drinking outside and therefore may drink less inside as well. »
Following the same formula, Ben used a 10kg dog as another example, explaining that a canine of this weight would be expected to drink 500ml within a 24-hour period. « It’s quite a considerable amount, but again remember it will fluctuate depending on how active they’ve been, how warm it is – if they’re panting lots they’ll be losing more fluid on a hot day so they’ll be expected to drink more. »
Ben went on to warn, however, that increased water consumption can be a serious subject and a potential symptom of several medical conditions. « Diabetes, kidney disease, some hormonal problems, liver disease, » in particular, he noted.
« I always tell owners that if they feel they have noticed a change in their pets’ drinking habits, they should measure their 24-hour water consumption. » In order to do this, Ben suggests topping up their bowl at the start of the day and keeping a tally of any extra top-ups over that 24 hours and taking that off the volume given the next day.
He closed: « If they’re drinking 100ml per kilo over a day – so that’s a litre for a 10kg dog – then that is starting to become excessive. » Ben reiterated: « But if you’re seeing any change in their normal drinking habits, do flag it to your vets. »
Agreeing with Ben’s advice, Cats Protection states the following suggested amounts of water intake for felines:
- Kitten up to three months (1.4kg): 70ml
- Six-month-old kitten (2.7kg): 135ml
- Medium cat (4kg): 200ml
- Large cat (6kg): 300ml
The chairty adds online: « If you are concerned about any change to your cat’s behaviour, including changes to their normal drinking habits, it can be a sign of a medical problem. Speak to your vet to see if anything is wrong. »
When it comes to dogs, meanwhile, the Dogs Trust adds: « Speak to your vet for specific advice for your dog, or if you notice a change in their drinking habits. Seek urgent veterinary care if you think your dog could be overheating, or showing signs of heat stroke.
« If you notice your pup drinking more in situations they’re unsure about, it could be their way of taking a break from things. Mention this to your vet if you notice your dog showing signs of anxiety or stress. »
The Trust also points out that dogs’ water consumption can vary, depending upon age, size, activity level, diet and medical conditions and treatments.
