As summer temperatures in New Jersey start to soar, pet parents need to start thinking more carefully about their fur babies' hydration needs. Cats, in particular, are creatures of habit and subpar adapts when it comes to consuming water. In today’s post, we're going to delve into why hydration is so crucial for your cats during the hot months.
Cats evolved from desert-dwelling felines, which accounts for their intriguing ability to conserve water. They have the knack for producing highly concentrated urine, which allows them to survive on substantially less hydration than dogs. However, this does not make them immune to dehydration. It’s critical to ensure your kitty is properly hydrated, especially during the hot summer months when the risk of dehydration is significantly amplified.
Here at The Hungry Puppy, we are all about the hydration game - we are cat people after all! We recommend always having a fresh bowl of water available for your feline friend. Some cats are attracted to running water, so consider upgrading to a cat water fountain. Moreover, diet also plays a significant role in hydration. Did you know that switching from dry to wet cat food can be an easy way to help increase your cat's water intake? Wet foods like Tiki Cat and Merrick have high moisture content, which helps replenish a significant amount of your cat's daily water needs.
Not sure whether your cat’s hydration levels are up to par? Simple checks like the "skin tent test" and monitoring your cat's litter trips can be instrumental. If the skin around your cat's scruff is slow to snap back or your kitty is visiting the litter box less frequently, it might be suffering from dehydration.
But what happens if your feline friend is showing signs of dehydration? Immediate steps should be taken to effectively replenish the moisture level in its body system. Do not resort to force-feeding water as it can choke your cat. Instead, try to incorporate water-rich elements in their diet. If symptoms worsen, a visit to the vet is paramount; dehydration can quickly lead to serious issues like organ failures.
Your beloved kitties trust you to look after them during these sweltering months, so be alert about any possible signs of dehydration. Always remember, a well-hydrated cat is a happy and healthy cat. And if you need any assistance with cat hydration products, drop by The Hungry Puppy or give our Pet Care Consultants a call. We'd be more than happy to help. So here’s to a hydrated, happier, and cooler summer for our feline companions. Stay cool, kitties!