How to Use Gel Packs for Pet Hydration

It can be a challenge to provide fresh water to pets while traveling. It's not always possible to include water dishes or bottles in small crates or carriers. Pets always need access to a source of hydration or they could become sick. Cats are especially prone to bladder infections if they don't get enough water. Gel packs are an economical and effective hydration solution when you are traveling with your pet, and they are easy to learn how to use.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Squeeze the gel packs repeatedly for about a minute before opening them. This will soften up the gel and make it easier to squeeze out of the package.
2. Squeeze the gel from one pack into your pet's travel water dish. The gel is 95 percent water and will not spill over the sides of the bowl, causing a mess. The other five percent of the gel is vitamins, which will keep your pet healthy during travel.
3. Squeeze the gel directly from the pack into your pet's mouth. One pack equals one 8 oz. glass of water, so only squeeze a little bit at a time, until your pet seems satisfied. If there is gel left in the pack, roll the opened end over until you are ready to use it again.
4. Pack gel packs in your checked suitcase for airline travel, rather than putting the gel in your pet's bowl while on the plane. Most airlines have restrictions on using hydration gel packs while in flight, or carrying gels in the airplane's cabin. You can use the gel packs later, once you get to your destination.
5. Avoid freezing the gel packs or heating them in the microwave. This will damage the packs and may make the gel undrinkable.
6. Buy a well-recognized brand of gel pack from a pet store or from your veterinarian. Waterbite is one of the most popular brands of gel pack, due to its vitamin and mineral content and good taste, and it is widely available in pet stores or from the Pet Travel Store website (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• If your pet will drink from a bottle, you can stick the nipple through any medium-sized slit or gap in the side of your pet carrier. Try offering your pet some water through the bottle once every half an hour or so. He may not always take a drink, but it's a good idea to give him the option.