Basically, we define dehydration in animals as thirst. The most obvious clues that our friends show is the loss of brightness in their eyes, dryness in the mucous membranes of the mouth when we touch their gums, and increased breathing. The easiest way to detect dehydration in cats is to grab the scruff. The scruff is the part of the neck where mother cats hold and carry their kittens with their mouths. If the scruff regains its original shape, it means that there is no problem. If it does not regain its former shape, it means that their bodies need water. Fluids or intravenous drugs can be injected into their veins. They can also get some of their water from wet food rather than fresh, clean water every time. For dogs, dehydration is characterized by intermittent breathing, fever, and diarrhea. As with cats, their skin loses its elasticity. We can also observe a dry nose. Just like us, our friends’ bodies are made up of water. This is why it is so important to leave a bowl of water out during the hot summer months. This is also why fresh daily water is the greatest need of our friends in our homes. Let’s not forget that they can endure hunger more than thirst.