Tap water could be ‘slowly poisoning’ pets, expert warns

Hard tap water could be “slowly poisoning” pets because of the elements dissolved in it, a water treatment expert claims.

Gene Fitzgerald, who works for Best Osmosis Systems, told The Mirror that in most places in the UK, tap water is perfectly fine for humans and animals to drink. However, if you live in a hard water area, it may be making pets ill.

He told the newspaper: “Hard water contains high levels of calcium and/or magnesium. For pets, this can be harmful.”

The experSh explained that hard water can cause cats and dogs to develop health conditions.

She added: “If a dog drinks too much hard water for too long a period, for example, they can develop conditions such as urinary tract and/or bladder infections, cystitis, urinary obstruction, crystalluria and stone formation.

“Hard water can also cause skin irritation and dryness, digestive problems, and dental issues in pets.”

Fitzgerald advises that petcarers ensure their water is soft or to filter tap water before giving it to pets.