Summer is all about fun under the sun, but is it as fun for your pets?
Now that summer is just around the corner and we are starting to feel the temperature going up, our pets are also feeling the heat. The summer heat is not that hazardous to us, but it could pose a risk for dehydration to our pets, and it could be even more serious than we thought.
Some owners are not aware how much water should be given to pets during summer time, while others do not know the signs of dehydration to watch out for.
Dehydration, depending on the severity, could result in vomiting, diarrhea, and urinary tract infections. Acute dehydration could even cause kidney damage to your pets.
Dogs are okay with baths to keep them cool; some even love the water. It is the opposite for cats; hence they are more at risk to dehydrate during summers.
Here are some ways to keep your kitty cool and safe under the summertime heat:
1. Leave a bowl of fresh water for them
Only a few owners would change their cat’s drinking water in his or her bowl. While thirsty pets would drink from just about anywhere, putting fresh and cool water in their drinking bowls and changing it twice or thrice a day would encourage your cat to drink more.
2. Make sure to keep your pets cool while your away
Being alone is miserable enough, but being alone on a hot and sweltering day is worse. Make sure that your pet has a cool place to rest when it becomes too hot. Also consider getting a pet fountain to keep their drinking water fresh and running.
3. Watch out for signs of dehydration
The signs of dehydration could be decreased skin elasticity, lethargy, lack of appetite, and sunken eyes. If you see any of these signs in your cat, bring him or her to the vet immediately.
4. Stay indoors more on extremely hot days
When it gets too hot outside, refrain from taking your cat or even dogs out too much, since this might lead to a fatal heatstroke. Moreover, the hot concrete could hurt their paws. Take them out during early mornings or evenings when it is a lot cooler.
