Aquamation, sometimes called alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is a water-based form of pet aftercare. It is offered as a gentler alternative to flame cremation.
A quick answer
Pet aquamation is a water-based process that gently returns the body to its natural elements using warm water and a small amount of alkaline solution. It leaves behind mineral remains, similar in appearance to ashes from flame cremation, which the provider can return to the family.
How aquamation works
Aquamation uses warm water and a small amount of alkaline solution to gently break down the body over several hours. The process is sometimes called alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation. At the end, the remaining mineral content is dried and returned to the family in a container or urn.
Aquamation typically takes longer than flame cremation, but the experience for the family is similar: pickup, processing at the facility, and return of the remains. Most providers track each pet through the process the same way they would for flame cremation.
Why some families choose aquamation
- It uses less energy than flame cremation
- It does not produce the same direct emissions as flame cremation
- Many families describe it as a gentler, more peaceful process
- Mineral remains can be returned, similar to traditional ashes
- It is available in private and (in some facilities) communal options
Aquamation vs. flame cremation
Both processes return mineral remains the family can keep. The table below summarizes the practical differences. Specific details vary by provider — confirm directly with the provider.
| Feature | Aquamation | Flame cremation |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Water and alkaline solution | Heat |
| Time per session | Longer | Shorter |
| Result returned | Mineral remains | Mineral remains |
| Energy use | Less | More |
| Direct emissions | None of the kind from flame cremation | Yes |
| Availability | Limited by region | Widely available |
| Typical cost | Similar to or slightly above private flame cremation | Standard tiered pricing |
Availability
Aquamation is becoming more widely available, but it is not offered in every city. Many providers offer both cremation and aquamation so families can choose. If you don't see an aquamation provider in your area, your veterinarian or a local cremation provider may be able to refer you.
Is the result the same as ashes?
The mineral remains returned after aquamation look similar in color and texture to traditional ashes. Some families say the remains from aquamation are slightly whiter or finer. Either way, you can keep, scatter, bury, or memorialize them the same way you would ashes from flame cremation.
Related FinalPaws guides
If you are weighing options, these related guides go deeper on cost, process, and what to do with the remains.
Find help near you
When you're ready, browse local aftercare providers on FinalPaws. Aquamation availability varies by city — please confirm directly with the provider.
Frequently asked questions
- Is pet aquamation the same as water cremation?
- Yes. Aquamation, water cremation, and alkaline hydrolysis are different names for the same water-based aftercare process. Some providers use one term and some use another.
- What is water cremation?
- Water cremation is another name for aquamation, also called alkaline hydrolysis. It is a water-based aftercare process that uses warm water and a small amount of alkaline solution to gently return the body to its natural elements. Mineral remains are returned to the family for the private tier, similar in look to ashes from flame cremation.
- How does water cremation work?
- The pet is placed in a stainless steel chamber with warm water and a small amount of alkaline solution. Over several hours, the body is gently broken down into its natural elements. The remaining mineral content is then dried and returned to the family in a container or urn. Most providers track each pet through the process the same way they would for flame cremation.
- How long does water cremation take?
- The process itself commonly takes several hours per pet, often longer than flame cremation. Overall turnaround for the family, from pickup to return of mineral remains, is usually a few days to about two weeks. Specific timing depends on the provider, the size of the pet, and any add-ons such as engraving. Confirm directly with the provider when you book.
- Do you get ashes back from pet aquamation?
- With a private aquamation, the provider returns the mineral remains to the family in a container or urn. The remains look similar to traditional ashes from flame cremation. With a communal aquamation, remains are usually not returned.
- Is pet aquamation more eco-friendly than cremation?
- Aquamation typically uses less energy than flame cremation and does not produce the same direct emissions. Many families consider it a gentler choice, though the overall environmental impact depends on the provider and the facility.
- How much does pet aquamation cost?
- Aquamation pricing is often similar to or slightly above private flame cremation. Costs vary by pet size, region, and provider. Confirm pricing directly with the provider before booking.
- Is aquamation available everywhere?
- Not yet. Aquamation is becoming more available but is not offered in every city. Many cremation providers can refer you to an aquamation partner if they do not offer it themselves.
Last reviewed: April 2026
FinalPaws guides are general educational resources. Pricing, timing, ash return policies, burial rules, and availability vary by provider and region — please confirm directly with local providers or local authorities when needed. For medical guidance, contact a licensed veterinarian.