Why Do Animals Drink More Water in the Winter?

So, why do animals drink more water in the winter? Only wild animals have access and need to go to water sources to consume water. But when it comes to pet animals like dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, cows, etc., they depend on humans for hydration who claim to love them. So if you are one of those people, this blog is for you! We will talk about the importance of hydration in animals, mostly in dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, etc. 

It’s not about dogs only; water requirements can increase in any animal during the year. But yes, people talk more often about dogs only because they are men’s best friends, and you can easily spot them around us. However, all other animals need extra energy to keep themselves warm in winter. So please give as much water to pet animals around you as it helps them produce more ATP (energy molecule). 

Also, replace the thought of serving ice to animals in winter months with water because it is proven to be dangerous for their immune system. In addition, it also lowers their body temperature, which can be risky for their health. So always feed their water bowls with clean and fresh water in the winter months. 

Read further to find out why animals increase their water consumption in cold weather. But first, whisk through a few other essential pointers regarding winter dehydration in animals.

How Much Water Should Animals Drink in a Day?

In general, every animal is distinct in breed, weight, energy, and food consumption. So it is obvious their water consumption will vary also! For example, if a dog weighs 120 pounds, it must consume 80-160 ounces in a day. Remember, you can pay attention to a dog’s hydration by observing his thick saliva. Although, there are many other pointers like sunken eyes, sticky gums, etc. 

Is Dehydration in Animals Same as in Humans?

In a nutshell, yes! Humans and animals share an almost striking resemblance when it comes to survival without water. You can’t ignore the importance of proper hydration at your house if you own a small or medium-sized pet. But again, we will say how much water consumption is required hovers from animal to animal and what energy requirements they require. 

For example, camels can live without water for around 15 days as they stand at high body temperature. This helps them retain the water they drink if required in the long run. However, humans hydrate quicker than animals as we belong to the region where water is used as a cooling system. 

To your surprise, researchers found zoo creatures like Chimpanzees and Gorillas need more water in a day than humans. How amazing is that? 

Do Animals Drink More Water in Winter?

In general, animals drink more water in the winter but with one contradiction – not all of them. But yes, there are few animals like the cow, the largest contributor to the large milk production. She needs thrice or four times more water intake than humans in a day. 

But when you talk about cold winter weather regarding dogs, they lose lots of water through sweating and urination. Consumption of enough water will also help them stay warm in freezing temperatures. 

What Causes Animals Dehydration in Winter Months? 

Suppose a pet animal is losing plenty of water through urination, digestion, and sweating (in the case of dogs); it is crucial to fill their water bowl with adequate water. If you talk about inside room temperature, winter drops house temperature, and the air tends to become dry. Unknown to many, water and feed consumption go hand in hand in the case of pet animals. So always pay attention to the water troughs in your house, yard, terrace, or garden. 

Which Animals Drink More Water in Winter?

Those animals with more weight and bigger than small animals drink more water in winter. For instance, consider a horse, a cow, or a yak. All of these animals could be thirstier in winter than in summer. But do remember not to serve the water close to freezing temperature. It can invoke the risk of paralysis in the digestive tract of pet animals, from dogs to horses to cows and more! 

Do Dogs Have More Water Requirements in the Winter Season? 

Yes, and if you own a double-coat dog, you must feed their bowl with adequate water levels. You can also consult a vet if you want to pump up its reduced energy levels because of its large size. He will also suggest you do the same to check the water source to confirm if it’s clean before you serve it to the dog!

Side Note: Always pay attention to your dog’s water access in winter weather. You raise a hydrated canine when you check your dog’s water intake in cold winter weather. And remember, a healthy canine has the potential to live up to a few more years extra than his life span. So you need to understand the importance of adequate water along with food. 

Why Do Animals Drink More Water in Winter?

When colder temperatures strike, lower humidity occurs. This is one of the prime reasons for winter dehydration in animals. When the winter season knocks, animals’ bodies warrant more drinking water to produce more energy-enriched molecules – Adenosine triphosphate (ATP). 

This energy-producing molecule maintains the water level in the animals’ bodies. In a nutshell, when the temperature drops, dehydration symptoms like dry nose are the most common symptom in small pet animals like cattle and dogs. Lastly, it would be best to browse the chart of pet animals where the water level is mentioned according to the weight and breed. 

How to Make Pets Drink More Water in Winter?

When pet hydration levels impact their health, pet parents should consider keeping them hydrated. We assume you are asking about small animals like man’s best friend – the dog! You can’t leave any stone unturned in their scenario, including grooming. And guess what? The most important thing is health if you own a pet animal in your house. It’s your responsibility to leave no stone unturned to ensure you supply clean water in your dog’s bowl. 

Tried and Tested Ways to Ensure Your Pet Drinks More Water in Winter

1. You can increase your pet’s excitement by serving them the small ice cubes in fewer numbers.
2. Encourage them to play with you or go outside for a walk or exercise. 
3. Refill their bowl with fresh water every hour – it’s a must!
4. For cows, and cattle, plan a watering system or automatic waterers.
5. The water should not be too cold, and it shouldn’t be too warm either. 
6. If you own a lavish house, install a miniature outdoor fountain for your dog with filters. 
7. Have you tried to replace their existing water bowl? If not, then replace it now with a glass dish. 
8. Don’t feed your pet the bird water and direct pond water – if you live in an industrial area. 

Final Words –  Why Do Animals Drink More Water in the Winter?

That’s it! The idea of writing this blog is to encourage you to provide water to the animals no matter what it takes. Because as human beings, we can quench our thirst for water but think of animals. Whether hot or cold outside, only a handful of animals need not venture far to satiate their thirst. For example, pet dogs at home. In addition, we should also think about the street animals around us, irrespective of the summer or winter months. 

Lastly, this write-up attempts to make you aware of what happens if animals don’t drink more water in winter. We have written this article in the context of pet animals only, not wild animals. If you feel like your pet is sounding dehydrated even after so many attempts, consult immediately with the pet near you!