With UK temperatures soaring to 38°C, pets risk dehydration as they often reject warm or stagnant water. A canine nutritionist has shared a low-cost trick using tinned fish liquid to encourage drinking.
Simple Tinned Fish Water Trick
Gaia Musotti, a UK-based canine nutritionist, recommends adding about a teaspoon of the liquid from sardines canned in spring water to a pet's water bowl. In an Instagram video, she explained that her dog Rusty 'simply doesn't drink enough' during hot weather. 'The smell makes the water much more appealing and he usually drinks the whole bowl,' she said.
How to Prepare the Hydration Boost
Musotti advises using tinned fish such as sardines, mackerel, or salmon in spring water only—not in tomato sauce, olive oil, or with added salt. Pour just the liquid into the water bowl and stir. This flavoured water can be used during the hottest part of the day as a short-term solution.
Important Safety Warnings
Musotti stressed this is a temporary measure: 'It's not something to leave out for hours or use as an everyday fix. I'd especially recommend not leaving it out for long periods of time in the heat, because it can attract bacteria.' Holmer Vet Surgery suggests making 'ice cube flavour shots' by freezing the flavoured water in ice cube trays, which also keeps the water cool.
Cost and Where to Buy
Suitable tinned fish is available at supermarkets: Sainsbury's Sardines in Spring Water at 60p, Aldi Tuna Chunks In Spring Water at 65p, and M&S Danish Mackerel Fillets in Spring Water at £1.30. Avoid varieties in brine, as high salt content can cause severe sodium poisoning in pets.
