Dehydration can sneak up on pets faster than you think, and it can quickly become dangerous. That’s why making sure your pet drinks enough water is one of the best ways to protect their health and comfort.

Here’s what you need to know about hydration in dry climates, and how to keep your pet feeling their best.

Why Does Hydration Matter?

Water keeps everything in your pet’s system running smoothly—from digestion and circulation to joint health and temperature regulation. Pets that don’t get enough water can quickly become sluggish, uncomfortable, or even sick. They’re also more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be deadly.

And while it’s obvious to watch for dehydration during an Arizona summer walk, the truth is, our dry air pulls moisture year-round, even indoors. That means hydration is just as important in January as it is in July. 

How to Tell If Your Pet Is Dehydrated

Some signs of dehydration are subtle, while others are more noticeable. Keep an eye out for:

• Dry gums
• Thick, sticky saliva
• Lethargy, or unusual tiredness
• Panting more than usual (even when it’s not hot)
• Sunken eyes
• Loss of skin elasticity (if you try to gently lift the skin on the back of your pet’s neck and it doesn’t snap back quickly, that’s a red flag)

If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to call your vet and check in. Dehydration can progress quickly, especially in puppies, kittens, and senior pets. 

Four Simple Ways to Keep Your Pet Hydrated

1: Keep Fresh Water Available

Make sure your pet’s bowls are always clean and filled with fresh, cool water daily—and make sure they’re actually drinking it! Sometimes picky cats prefer to drink from a fountain, and some dogs like to have multiple water stations around the house. 

Making sure your pet has water available throughout the day is the first step in preventing dehydration. Always give pets extra water after playtime, and bring water for your pet along on walks and hikes.

2: Add Water to Meals

Mix a little warm water into dry kibble, or switch things up with wet food now and then. It’s an easy way to sneak in extra hydration—especially if you’ve ever struggled with keeping your pet hydrated or nagging them to drink.

3: Watch for Warning Signs 

Hairballs, for example, are more common in dehydrated cats. So are bladder crystals and urinary tract infections. If your cat has frequent hairballs or is urinating outside of the litterbox, you should see a vet. 

Dogs that are recovering from an upset stomach or diarrhea will need extra fluids to bounce back. But if they can’t keep water down, or they have three episodes of vomiting and diarrhea within 24 hours, call a vet. 

4: Use the Weather As Your Guide

If it’s warm and dry outside, chances are your pet needs more water than usual. Dogs that play outside might even like a kiddie pool to swim in! If they’re panting or exercising during a walk, stop and take a break in the shade. Offer extra water, and if your pet seems to be getting tired, turn around and go back home. 

A Quick Note on Cats

Cats can be especially tricky, since they naturally tend to have a lower thirst drive. If your cat isn’t a big drinker, try using a shallow dish, setting their dish up high away from other pets, or get a kitty drinking fountain for fresh, flowing water. You can also try pouring a broth over their dry food or adding a little water to their wet food. 

When to Call Your Vet

Sometimes dehydration is a symptom, not the main problem. Chronic dehydration can point to health issues like kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid problems. If your pet is drinking a lot more—or a lot less—than usual, it’s time for a checkup. 

In Arizona’s dry climate, a little extra attention to water intake makes a world of difference. By making hydration a daily habit, you’ll help your pet stay energized, comfortable, and ready for whatever adventures come their way.

If you have questions about how to keep your pet hydrated, or you have any concerns about their health, please pay us a visit! Our team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to help keep your pet healthy and comfortable in Arizona all year round. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s next checkup. 

Photo by Helena Jankovičová Kováčová on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 9/6/2025

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Can my cat get sunburned?

Hairless cats and breeds with sparse hair are more prone to sunburn, but sun exposure can affect any kind of cat. If your feline loves to sunbathe, they could get sunburned or develop other skin conditions. Too much sun can result in solar dermatitis, which usually appears on the face and ears in the form of red or scaly skin. If it goes untreated, scabs and ulcers will begin to form. 

Solar dermatitis is a progressive skin disease that can lead to squamous cell carcinoma, a skin cancer that presents as malignant tumors. If you notice your cat constantly scratching at the affected areas or shaking their head, schedule a veterinary examination right away. 

Can my dog get sunburned?

Light colored and hairless dogs have the highest risk of sunburns. Protective clothing like hats, goggles, or shirts can help shield their skin from the sun. Besides a sunburn, dogs that get too much sun exposure can also get heatstroke or severe dehydration. Signs of heatstroke in dogs include panting, difficulty moving, drooling, red gums, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse. 

Treatment for Sunburn in Pets

If your dog or cat is experiencing symptoms of sunburn like red, flaky skin, please keep them out of the sun. Ointments and coolants can help relieve irritation, but if their symptoms persist, you should consult a vet. Anasazi Animal Clinic can treat severe sunburn in pets with antibiotic treatments to prevent inflammation. If your pet is suffering from excess sun exposure, contact us to schedule a consultation.

Photo by Isabela Kronemberger on Unsplash

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What are the types of kidney issues?

There are two different types of kidney failure in cats: acute kidney (renal) failure (ARF) and chronic kidney (renal) failure. Acute kidney failure is a sudden occurrence of kidney failure. It is often reversible when it is diagnosed early and treated aggressively. Chronic kidney failure is the loss of functioning of the kidneys gradually over months or years. This can lead to total kidney failure. Both can be fatal if left untreated. 

What are signs of kidney failure in cats? 

The function of the kidneys is to filter impurities out of the blood and pass them through the urinary tract. A decrease in the functioning of the kidneys can create waste buildup which will make your pet feel ill. Signs your cat may be experiencing kidney failure can include: 

• Drinking more water
• Frequent urination
• Weight loss
• Bad breath 
• Lethargy
• Constipation
• Vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stool
• Brown tongue
• Mouth ulcers 
• Loss of appetite

What can a veterinarian do?

Your veterinarian can provide blood and urine tests, and X-rays. An ultrasound or biopsy may be needed to make a diagnosis. If your vet does find signs of kidney disease, treatments can range from surgery to an altered diet along with medication. This will vary depending on the stage of failure and the type of kidney disease your cat has been diagnosed with. You may also be given the option to inject fluids under your cat’s skin at home depending on the recommendation of your vet. 

What can you do?

If you are at all concerned that your cat may be having kidney issues, take them to a vet immediately. Bringing your pet to a veterinarian early is the most important thing you can do to prevent your cat from being in prolonged pain. After your pet has been seen, the veterinarian will help you decide the best care plan. 

Give us a call! 

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, your local Gilbert vet, we understand how stressful it can be when your pet is in pain. If you are concerned about your cat’s kidney functioning, bring them in as soon as possible. You can reach us through any option on the contact us page. The sooner we can diagnose and treat, the sooner your cat will be back on the road to good health! 

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

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How Can I Tell If My Is Dog Dehydrated?

Throughout the normal course of a day, your dog is taking in and losing fluids. When the fluid loss becomes disproportionate to the intake, water begins to leave your pup’s cells in order to quench its thirst. As this process occurs, its body loses vital electrolytes, such as potassium, sodium, and chloride, which are responsible for muscle function and other processes in the body. If your dog truly is dehydrated, then his body has reached a point where he can no longer replenish these essential electrolytes in his body through taking fluids orally.

Here are a few common symptoms to look for:

• Sunken Eyes
• Exhaustion or lethargy
• Panting
• Loss of Appetite
• Dry nose and gums
• Loss of skin elasticity

What Can I Do If My Pooch Is Dehydrated?

If you suspect your dog might be dehydrated, it’s important to take him to your local vet immediately. The symptoms listed above are not always that obvious, and if you wait too long to restore the balance in his body, there could be health consequences.

As always, and especially throughout the summer, be sure to supply your dog with constant fresh water. To avoid potential dehydration, check out one of our other recent blog posts on overheating in dogs.

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, our compassionate staff cares deeply about your four-legged family members. Conveniently located in Gilbert, we are your local pet clinic serving Chandler, Mesa, and Gilbert. Whether your pet is suffering from the effects of dehydration or it simply needs a regular check-up, we will lovingly care for your pet and give it the experienced attention it needs. Contact us today!

Photo by Sarah Pflug from Burst (6/14/2018)

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