📚How to Ensure Your Pet’s Drinking Water is Safe

Likely, you dedicate a significant portion of your time to selecting nutritious food for your pets. But, have you ever pondered the purity of the water they consume? Simply filling their bowls with tap water might seem convenient, but is it truly the optimal choice?

In some places, tap water is unsafe for humans to consume, let alone for animals. However, even in parts of the world where tap water isn't considered dangerous, there are still factors that can affect the long-term health of humans and animals alike.

Changing Your Pet's Water Frequently

First of all, let's look at what makes standing water potentially dangerous for your pet. Pouring a large container for your furry friend may seem like a convenient way to keep them hydrated for a longer period of time. Maybe you're thinking of binge-watching your favorite show or working on a project all day.

Leaving your pet with a large bowl of water, especially if it's outdoors, can cause the water to become contaminated with a variety of pollutants. As per many studies, including one posted on Pubmed, bacteria can multiply rapidly in stagnating water. Mosquitos and other insects can contribute to introducing bacteria and parasites into your pet's drinking water.

You should replace your pet's water regularly. Even if it seems clean, pouring your pet a fresh bowl at least once a day is recommended. If the bowl is outdoors, you may want to increase the frequency at which you change their water.

Tap Water Quality and Pet Health

Hard water contains minerals such as magnesium, calcium and iron. In acceptable quantities, these should not lead to any health problems for your pets. Some veterinarians, however, recommend avoiding unfiltered tap water as a source of hydration for your pets for other reasons. For instance, some E. coli strains can be present. Even though they may not be of the most dangerous types, they still can cause loss of appetite.

Furthermore, in cases where you get your water from a private well, you need to make sure you have it tested at least once a year.

There are four types of contaminants that could potentially be present in your tap water and cause harm to you and your pet.

• Physical Contaminants

• Physical contaminants include organic material or sediments that alter your water's physical properties.

• Chemical Contaminants

• Chemicals that make their way into your tap water can be man-made or naturally-occurring.

• Biological Contaminants

• Biological contaminants pertain to bacteria, viruses and parasites.

• Radiological Contaminants

• Radiological contamination comes from elements from the periodic table such as uranium or radon.

Dehydration can be a concern with pets. Many animals will drink the water you put in front of them but cats, for instance, can be very picky. They will not drink water that isn't clean and if you are putting water in their bowl that they find to be unsatisfactory, they may end up becoming dehydrated. So, the best course of action is to provide clean water for your pets so that they can stay healthy and energetic.

Getting a Water Filter

The most convenient way to guarantee that your pet will be drinking the safest water possible is to install a water filter. Not only will your pet be taking advantage of the clean water but you'll also be using the best quality water for your cooking. On top of that, you'll be guaranteeing that your pets stay properly hydrated and healthy so they can devote all their energy to playing with their owner.

There are many water filters on the market and most will make bold claims. It's important to find one that removes all types of contaminants, guaranteeing your pets enjoy clean and healthy water. Check out the best water filter for your pet's needs. It removes harmful pollutants while leaving the beneficial minerals your pet needs intact.

Clean Your Pet's Water Bowl

With a busy schedule, it can be easy to just throw out your pet's old water and just fill up the bowl at the tap. However, your furry friend's bowl needs cleaning daily if you are to guarantee them optimal drinking water. You can either place it in a sanitizing dishwasher or wash it by hand in soapy water.

Once a week, place your pet's water bowl in a sink with about a gallon of water and one cap of bleach. Allow it to soak for at least ten minutes in order for it to be fully sterilized. Make sure to rinse it well and then allow the bowl to air dry.