- Regulation of body temperature: Water helps animals to sweat, excrete, and pant to cool down. This is important for animals living in hot climates or those that get a lot of exercise.
- Lubrication of joints: Water helps to lubricate joints and prevent arthritis. This is important for animals that are very active or those that have joint problems.
- Transport of nutrients: Water helps to transport nutrients throughout the body. This is important for animals that eat a variety of foods or that have special nutritional needs.
- Removal of waste products: Water helps to remove waste products from the body. This is important for animals that are exposed to toxins or that have kidney problems.
- Protection from dehydration: Water helps to keep animals hydrated, which is important for preventing dehydration. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems, including death.
Animals get water in a variety of ways, including:
- Drinking: Animals drink water from a variety of sources, including lakes, rivers, ponds, streams, and oceans.
- Eating: Animals also get water from the food they eat. Some foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are very high in water content.
- Absorption: Animals also absorb water through their skin. This is important for animals that live in humid environments or that spend a lot of time in water.
Access to water is essential for animal survival. Without water, animals would quickly become dehydrated and die. This is why it is important to provide animals with plenty of fresh water every day.