Dehydration in cats

Overview

When it comes to water, getting enough of it is serious business for cats. Without adequate fluids to keep tissues moist and transport nutrients throughout the body, a cat will die. Dehydration occurs when a cat loses body fluids faster than he can replace them. A drop in fluid levels can result from overheating in hot weather or when the water bowl is empty at home.  More serious dehydration can occur when a cat has been vomiting excessively or has severe diarrhea. A diabetic cat that has become unregulated also faces the risk of dehydration, as can cats who are battling serious or prolonged illnesses such as kidney disease, cancer, or hyperthyroidism. Prolonged fever is another common cause of dehydration.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dehydration include:

• Sunken eyes
• Exhaustion
• Appetite loss
• Depression
• Dry mouth
• Elevated heart rate

To check for dehydration, pull up on the scruff of your cat's neck and let go; the skin should spring back into place. If the skin stays up or returns to normal very slowly, your cat is dehydrated. If you suspect that your cat is dehydrated, consider this an emergency and take him to the veterinarian immediately. In a worst case scenario, a very young kitten suffering from diarrhea for even one day can die from lack of fluids. Dehydration is not always easy to judge, and only a doctor can properly evaluate your cat and provide him with life-saving fluids.

Treatment

Your veterinarian may give fluids intravenously or subcutaneously (under the skin), to quickly rehydrate your cat.

Cats that have mild cases of diarrhea or vomiting can easily become dehydrated, so watch your cat's water intake, even after the diarrhea or vomiting has stopped. It is a good idea to give a recuperating cat an ice cube or two to lick or to give them a small amount of water through a syringe.  Drinking too much water very rapidly can cause them to vomit if they have an upset stomach, resulting in additional loss of fluid.  You also may want to give your recuperating cat a drink that is rich in electrolytes. Veterinarians often recommend Pedialyte, a formula for babies available in drug stores and supermarkets, or sports drinks. Check with your veterinarian before going this route, as your pet may be more dehydrated than you can gauge on your own and he may require veterinary care.

Prevention

To make sure your healthy cat remains properly hydrated, there are several things you can do. Be sure that water is available for your cat at all times, and change it frequently to keep it clean and fresh.  Some cats have a preference for water in different bowls or locations throughout the house; cats can also have a preference for tap water or bottled water.  Fountains that constantly move water are also preferred by some cats.  If you think your cat does not drink enough water, experiment with bowls and water types until you find what your cat prefers. 

If your cat has been vomiting, having diarrhea, or otherwise appears unwell, bring them in to see your regular veterinarian as soon as possible.  Swift intervention is often the key to avoiding severe dehydration that requires hospitalization. 

If you happen to notice that your cat is drinking less than usual, it might be a good idea to take a look inside his mouth - foreign objects such as twigs or burrs could cause your cat to avoid the water dish.