Your cat is the purrfect little fluff ball, but lately seems unmotivated to play. You’re also noticing your kitty’s usually bright eyes look dull and sunken in the sockets. This could be a case of feline dehydration, and that’s serious enough to get your pet to the vet.

A quick knowledge quench: when a cat loses more body fluids than it takes in, dehydration sets in, which can lead to various health issues, some severe. This blog article will cover the whole kit and caboodle about dehydration in cats. And since you’re a responsible pet owner, you’ll want to learn what the symptoms of dehydration are, what treatment looks like, and some strategies to prevent it!

Does my cat drink enough water?

Cats need approximately four ounces of water per five pounds of body weight. Cat owners should be aware that if their cat is not drinking enough water, it's, well, a catalyst for dehydration. Though there may be other more serious contributors to dehydration, which we’ll get to shortly.

Signs and symptoms of dehydration in cats

So, how do you know if your cat is dehydrated? The main symptoms to watch for include:

1. Decreased skin elasticity

2. Dry mouth/dry, tacky gums

3. Lethargy

4. Sunken eyes

   
   

If you notice any of these symptoms, VEG ER for Pets is here for you. Reach out with any questions.

Know the signs and symptoms of cat dehydration. If you spot the signs in your cat, VEG ER for Pets is open 24/7 to help!

Common causes of cat dehydration

Knowing the things that can cause dehydration is a great way to keep your cat safe from it! Reasons vary and some may surprise you. Read on to see the most common reasons why dehydration sets in.

Reasons for dehydration in cats

1. Decreased or minimal water intake

Dehydration in cats happens when their fluid loss is greater than the fluid they’re taking in. If your cat has stopped drinking or is simply drinking less, it’s a precursor for dehydration. Offer your cat fresh water and take your pet to the vet if notice a disinterest in drinking.

2. Diabetes

With a decreased response to insulin (similar to type 2 diabetes in humans), a cat’s blood sugar level will spike. Excessive sugar in the blood will enter a cat’s urine causing an elevated glucose level and along with it, a high amount of water. The kidneys are working overtime to filter out glucose, excessive water is being drawn into the urine, and you can notice this in your cat as increased urination, which can lead to dehydration.

3. Environmental

A cat’s surroundings can certainly cause dehydration. For example, being outdoors in hot weather and arid climates without proper hydration. Indoor cats are prone to dehydration simply by taking a long nap while laying a beam of sunlight from a nearby window. Also consider if there are changes in your cat’s habitat, such as the addition of a new pet or a recent move, that are causing stress and a refusal to drink.

4. A change in foods

Switching a cat to dry food can cause some unwanted side effects, like dehydration. Their bodies were used to the additional water content from wet food, and that small difference can cause dryness and possible dehydration. 

5. Hyperthyroidism

A common thyroid problem, hyperthyroidism can come with symptoms that traditionally cause dehydration, e.g., vomiting, and diarrhea.

6. Kidney disease

If your cat is diagnosed with kidney disease, they are at risk for dehydration. This is due to the kidneys not properly filtering and absorbing fluids. The result is increased urination, causing fluid loss.

7. Vomiting

Let’s face it, cats seem to vomit a lot. Whether it’s a hairball or something that just didn’t sit right, you might find cat splat in the oddest places. But there’s a greater concern than just the mess: loss of fluids. Always ensure your cat is properly hydrated if you notice that they’ve been vomiting.

How to help a dehydrated cat

A word to the wise cat parent: monitoring your pet’s water intake and watching out for signs of dehydration is crucial. If your cat regularly laps up a bowlful of water, but now barely touches it, that’s cause for concern.

Regular monitoring can help in early detection and prevention of dehydration. Here are a few tips you can do at home to help prevent dehydration in your cat:

• Ensure fresh water is always available

• Clean the water dish daily—cats can be water snobs! 

• Keep the spots where they eat and drink at a distance from their litter box

• Switch to wet food (consult your primary care veterinarian before making any nutritional adjustments)

• Check their gums periodically for color and moisture changes; gums should be pink in color and not sticky or dry

• If cat is not drinking water, try to entice them with a different type of bowl or a pet water fountain. If your cat is still not interested in drinking, it’s time to see the vet.

If you suspect your cat is dehydrated, VEG emergency vets are always ready to examine your cat. Dehydration should be treated as an emergency, and at VEG, you and your pet will receive immediate vet attention.

Help prevent dehydration by making sure cats always have access to fresh water.

How VEG treats cat dehydration

The 24-hour emergency veterinarian staff at VEG can provide the necessary treatment for your cat’s lack of hydration. We’ll tailor a treatment plan that best suits your pet’s needs.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

1. We’ll replenish fluids and electrolytes, which can be done through intravenous (IV) fluids or subcutaneous (SC) fluid therapy, depending on the severity.

2. Our team will assess if there are underlying causes using various diagnostic techniques.

3. You get to stay with your cat all throughout your visit!

Timely emergency vet intervention at VEG can make all the difference in your cat's recovery.

How can I make sure my cat doesn’t get dehydrated?  

Ready to be a hero to your pet? Here’s how to help protect your cat from dehydration.

Dehydration prevention tips for cats

1. Encourage cat to drink.

   Providing continuous access to fresh water is the first step in preventing dehydration. Rule of thumb: water, water everywhere—consider multiple water stations around your home and, if needed, a cat water fountain to encourage drinking. (Don’t be surprised if they swat at the water stream a bit before taking a sip!)

2. Visit the vet regularly. 

   Regular veterinary check-ups can help in early detection of conditions that might lead to dehydration.

3. Ensure healthy nutrition. 

   Don’t underestimate the healthful power of your cat’s meals. Understanding the dietary needs of cats and providing a balanced diet can aid in maintaining proper hydration levels.

4. Monitor cat for sickness. 

   If your cat is vomiting or has diarrhea, keep a close watch for signs of dehydration.

   
   

Call or walk in to VEG 24/7 if your cat is dehydrated 

Now that you know what to look for, if you observe any signs of dehydration or changes in your cat's drinking habits, call us or come on in. Early intervention can prevent the condition from getting worse.

VEG is always opening new hospitals too, so find a VEG veterinary hospital near you and add us to your contacts! Our ERs are open 24/7 for you and your pet. We’ll triage your cat immediately and you never have to leave your fluffy feline’s side.