Cats are notorious for their low water consumption, which is largely due to their desert heritage. That being said, when a cat starts drinking too much, it is a red flag. This article delves the reasons why a cat may be abnormally thirsty, including discussion about different health conditions, diagnostics, how to treat the causes and how to monitor and support a cat’s health.
Normal Drinking Behavior in Cats
Before we get into cat drinking too much, it’s important to define what normal cat hydration is.
- Heritage: Cats come from the desert, where water is difficult to come by. They used to get moisture from their food in the wild,,” which makes them have a low natural thirst.
- Dietary Effect : Cats that eat wet food get more moisture from their diet, and cats who consume dry kibble are likely to drink more water to make up the difference.
- Average Consumption: A cat drinks an average of 60-80 ml water/ kg body weight/day. These may differ according to diet, age, and activity level.
Causes of Increased Thirst
- Diabetes Mellitus: Very prevalent in the older cat and indicated by excessive blood sugar level. Increased thirst and urinary frequency are general symptoms.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A condition progrssing over time in which the kidneys can not concentrate urine, resulting in increased thirst and urination.
- Hyperthyroidism: Too much thyroid hormone can ramp up metabolism and lead to weight loss, increased appetite, and drinking more water.
- Liver Disorder: The accumulation of toxins results due to the malfunctions of the liver results in an increased thirst.
- Genito-urinary Tract Infections: Infections may cause irritation to the urinary tract and increased urination and thirst.
- Diet Change – changing to dry food or high-sodium foods can lead to more water consumption.
- Conditions: Warm conditions or higher workloads may result in a physiological intake of more water.
Diagnostic Methods
To get at the bottom of the problem of excessive thirst, your veterinarian will carry out a thorough evaluation that may include:
- Past Medical History: Investigate diet, behavior and environment.
- Physical Assessment: Assessing for evidence of dehydration, wasting, or other physical signs.
- Blood Tests: Checking the amount of glucose in your blood, how well the kidney works and thyroid hormone levels.
- Urinalysis: A test that measures the concentration of urine, and checks for signs of infection or kidney problems.
- Imaging: X-rays or ultrasounds can provide a look into the body and identify abnormalities through consideration of internal organs.
Treatment Options
The necessary action can be taken when the cause is determined.
- Diet Management: Feeding more moist cat foods to combat this. Prescription diets may be prescribed for certain conditions.
- Drugs: According to the diagnosis, certain drugs may be used to control diseases such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism or infections.
- Monitoring and Management: Just as regular check-ups help monitor chronic diseases such as CKD or diabetes, routine monitoring of symptoms will help manage COPD.
- Hydration: Promoting water intake through access to fresh water sources such as fountains can aid in hydration.
Home Care and Monitoring
Owners help play a critical role in helping their own cat’s health and rehabilitation.
- Observation: Observation and observation is the key to monitoring your cat’s behavior, what he eats and how much water he drinks. Note any changes or patterns.
- Comfort & Environment: Ensure a quiet and stress-free environment with clean water and litter box.
- A Regular Diet: Feed at regular times and provide a balanced diet that is appropriate for your cat.
When to Get Your Dog to the Vet Now
Some causes of excessive thirst are manageable at home, but others require immediate medical attention:
- When to Seek Care Persistent or Severe Symptoms: Such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
- Sudden Weight Change: You shouldn’t wait to take a look at your body when you’ve noticed an inexplicable scale movement.
- Pain or Distress Signs: If the cat looks pained or uncomfortable.
Preventive Measures
As always, preventing is better than curing. What are good ways to keep a cat healthy?
- Vet Check-ups as Usual: Scheduled check-ups can help to notice potential problems before they become major.
- Diet: Feed a healthy food to fit cats and their unique dietary needs and feed them wet food.
- Hydration Prompts: Keep water available and use fountains to encourage drinking.
- Stress Relief: Keep the cat in a stress-free and quiet environment.
Conclusion
Increased feline drinking can be indicative of health problems, but if closely monitored and treated in a timely fashion, often they are very treatable. With the help of a veterinarian, pet parents can make certain their cats are healthy and well-hydrated, and appropriately enjoying happy, satisfactory lives. Prevention and good care are the best tools to manage this frequent problem and build a good relationship with these wonderful animals.
