Water is a 'Must' to Go with Your Pet’s Meals
Water is one of the most important nutrients dogs and cats require. Yes, that’s right. Water is so important that it’s considered a nutrient. In fact, life would continue for only a few days if water were not available.
What does water do?
Water is essential for all life processes – digestion of food, circulation, excretion, transportation of nutrients from pet food, building tissue and maintaining body temperature. Water carries nutritive elements to the cells and carries away waste materials to the kidney. It helps lubricate body tissues, cushions joints and maintains a pet’s internal organs.
Serve fresh water regularly
Dogs and cats should be allowed free access to fresh, clean drinking water at all times, or offered water several times during the day. If your pet spends time outside during the winter, the chill should be removed from the first water that is offered, and if possible, kept from freezing. During the summer, water should be changed as frequently as practical to help keep it cool.
Water with exercise
If you exercise with your dog – or he’s had an active playtime – care should be taken to avoid excessive water intake until he has had an opportunity to cool down. At that time, allow your dog to drink small amounts of water. Then, allow him to rest a bit more before feeding him any food.
Yes, 100% complete and balanced pet food is mandatory for your pet. But fresh, clean water is, too. Just remember that both are vital for your pet’s health! For more information about the importance of pet food nutrition, water and other nutrients, visit the Purina Web site.
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