Hydration Tips For Senior Cats and Dogs
As our furry friends enter their golden years, keeping them hydrated becomes more important than ever. At Petdirect, we get pet, so we understand that changes in appetite, mobility, and health can make it tougher for senior cats and dogs to drink enough water. Whether you’ve got a wise old Labrador or a cosy-as Ragdoll snoozing in the lounge, these friendly and practical hydration tips will help support their wellbeing every day.
Why Hydration Is Vital For Older Pets
Just like us, water is essential for your pet’s organs to function properly. As cats and dogs age, they’re more prone to dehydration due to factors like:
- Reduced thirst sensation
- Weaker kidney function
- Chronic conditions such as arthritis or diabetes
- Medication side effects
- Less physical activity
Keeping your senior cat or dog hydrated helps maintain healthy digestion, urinary tract function, joint lubrication, and temperature regulation. Dehydration signs to watch out for include lethargy, dry gums, sunken eyes, and less urination than usual.
Encourage Frequent Sipping With Smart Products
It’s not always about how much they drink in one go. Instead, encouraging regular sipping throughout the day is the way to go. Try offering clean, fresh water in multiple locations around the home. For tech-savvy pets (and their humans), a smart pet water fountain can make a world of difference. The sound and movement of flowing water attracts both cats and dogs and can encourage more consistent drinking.
You can also explore our range of pet hydration support products, including electrolyte-rich water additives designed with senior pets in mind.
Wet Their Appetite With Moisture-Rich Food
Adding wet food to your pet’s daily routine is a delicious way to top up their water intake. Wet diets can contain up to 80% moisture, which is especially helpful for seniors who've lost interest in their water bowl. Many brands like Royal Canin Vet, Hill’s Prescription Diet and ZIWI offer vet-formulated or natural wet food options tailored to ageing pets’ nutritional needs.
Alternatively, a bit of low-sodium broth or a hydrating topper over their dry food can make their meals more enticing and hydrating in one go.
Choose The Right Bowls And Waterers
Older pets may struggle with mobility or cognitive changes that make drinking from uncomfortable bowls difficult. Consider investing in raised or angled cat bowls or dog water bowls with elevated stands or wide, shallow designs that are easier on the neck and joints.
If your senior pet spends time outdoors or on the go, travel-friendly portable water bottles and bowls keep hydration close at paw during adventures.
Hydration-Boosting Treats And Supplements
Some pet health supplements may include ingredients that support hydration naturally, including omega oils and joint-supportive compounds. While these aren’t a direct replacement for water, they can benefit hydration balance and overall wellness.
Frozen treats made at home from water, broth, or pet-safe fruits can also be hydrating and fun, especially in warmer weather. Check out our range of pet treats to see what inspires your next DIY frozen creation.
Monitor Changes And Speak To Your Vet
If you notice sudden changes in your senior pet’s drinking habits – whether they’re drinking too little or too much – it’s always a good idea to chat with your vet. Sudden shifts could be linked to underlying conditions that need attention.
Regular vet check-ups and keeping an eye on daily water intake (especially with the help of smart feeders and fountains) give you peace of mind and help you respond early to any health concerns. Because when we say We Get Pet, we mean supporting your pet through every stage of life, with expert advice and tools that make a real difference.
Keep Their Bowl Full And Loyalty Perks Even Fuller
At Petdirect, our Pet Perks loyalty programme is just one way we thank pet parents like you for keeping your fur family happy and healthy. Earn Airpoints™ with every purchase, and get essential hydration supplies delivered on time with Autodeliver so you never run dry.
With expert-selected products for ageing cats and dogs, from tasty toppers to smart hydration solutions, you’ll find everything you need to support their health—all in one spot.
Final Lap For Thirsty Seniors
Keeping your senior cat or dog well-hydrated doesn’t need to be a challenge. By offering fresh water in accessible, appealing ways, adding moisture-rich foods, choosing smart accessories, and monitoring their habits, you can help your pet stay comfortable and well in their later years. At Petdirect, we’re proud to be your pet care partner for every age and stage.
Explore our full pet hydration collection to give your furry friend the refreshment they deserve, every day.