# Proper hydration in dogs and cats – a key element of preventive health care - Published: 2026-06-23 - Updated: 2026-06-23 - URL: https://bellywelly.eu/en-US/a/proper-hydration-in-dogs-and-cats-a-key-element-of-preventive-health-care-i79 Proper hydration in dogs and cats is one of the most important, yet often underestimated, aspects of daily pet care. Water is involved in almost all life processes – from regulating body temperature, through kidney function, to the transport of nutrients and the removal of metabolic waste products. From a behavioural perspective, both drinking patterns and fluid intake are closely linked not only to health, but also to habits, environment, and the animal’s natural instincts. 23 June 2026 ## Proper hydration in dogs and cats – a key element of preventive health care ![](https://bellywelly.eu/files/BW-ARTICLE-IMG/web/nawodnienie_web.jpg) Proper hydration in dogs and cats is one of the most important, yet often underestimated, aspects of daily pet care. Water is involved in almost all life processes – from regulating body temperature, through kidney function, to the transport of nutrients and the removal of metabolic waste products. From a behavioural perspective, both drinking patterns and fluid intake are closely linked not only to health, but also to habits, environment, and the animal’s natural instincts. **How much water should a dog and cat drink?** Daily water requirements depend on body weight, activity level, and type of diet. - Dog: on average 50–60 ml of water per kg of body weight per day - Cat: on average 40–50 ml per kg of body weight per day For example, a 10 kg dog should consume approximately 500–600 ml of fluids per day. It is important to remember that animals do not obtain water only through drinking. A significant source of hydration is also food – especially wet food, which can provide up to 60–80% of daily water requirements. This is particularly important in cats, as their natural drinking instinct is less developed. In evolutionary terms, cats obtained most of their fluids from prey, which is why they often do not fully compensate for deficits by drinking water from a bowl. **How does an animal behave when dehydrated?** Dehydration is not always immediately visible. Animals often compensate for it through behavioural changes before clear clinical signs appear. The most common signs include: - reduced activity and withdrawal from play - reluctance to move or go for walks - unusually dry mucous membranes - thickened saliva - decreased appetite - in dogs: increased panting without an obvious reason In more advanced cases, significant weakness and circulatory disturbances may occur. Therefore, a quick response from the caregiver is crucial. **When does the risk of dehydration increase?** Fluid balance disorders most often occur in specific environmental and health-related situations: - high temperatures and heatwaves - intense physical exercise - travel and changes in environment - stress (e.g. new places, noise) - chronic diseases (e.g. kidney disease or diabetes) - gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhoea, vomiting) - a diet based exclusively on dry food During summer periods, thermoregulation is particularly important – the animal’s body uses more water, which increases the risk of rapid dehydration. **How to support proper hydration?** The basis is constant access to fresh, clean water. However, from a behavioural perspective, the way water is offered is equally important. It is worth remembering a few rules: - the bowl should be regularly cleaned and refilled with fresh water - cats often prefer water placed away from their feeding area - placing several water bowls around the home increases the chance of more frequent drinking - water fountains can encourage cats to drink due to moving water - bowl material matters – many animals prefer ceramic or stainless steel **The role of diet in hydration** One of the simplest ways to support hydration is a properly balanced diet. Wet food is a natural source of water and can significantly support fluid balance, especially in cats and less active drinkers. In this context, well-balanced wet foods such as **Belly Welly** can be helpful, combining high moisture content with valuable nutritional composition. As a result, they support daily hydration while also providing essential nutrients. **Hydration during hot weather and physical activity** During high temperatures and increased physical activity, water requirements significantly increase. In such situations, it is important to: - avoid walks during the hottest parts of the day - take frequent hydration breaks during activity - always carry water and a portable bowl - observe the animal’s pace and behaviour A drop in energy, excessive panting, or reluctance to continue walking may be early signs of overheating and fluid loss. **Hydration during travel** During travel and environmental changes, animals often drink less, even though their water requirements may increase. Therefore, it is important to: - offer water regularly, even if the animal does not initiate drinking - take breaks during travel - provide a familiar bowl to reduce stress - observe the pet’s behaviour and reactions **Summary** Proper hydration in dogs and cats is a fundamental aspect of health, affecting kidney function, urinary and circulatory systems, and overall well-being. There is no single universal water requirement for every animal – daily observation, diet adjustment, and environmental adaptation to the individual needs of the pet are essential. Including wet food such as **Belly Welly** can be a simple and natural way to support proper fluid balance and help prevent issues related to insufficient hydration.