Although many kitties behave very nonchalantly about water consumption, that doesn't mean that you should, too. Dehydration in cats can lead to very dangerous consequences, and can sometimes even be fatal. Ample water is necessary for keeping a cat healthy, happy, lively and strong -- for life!
What is Feline Dehydration?
When a poor kitty is dehydrated, it means her body has lost too much water. It also means her body has lost too many important minerals -- think potassium and sodium. When water and electrolytes in the body get to this point of lack of equilibrium, it can bring upon a variety of harmful effects, from digestion to circulation functioning. In some instances, severe fluid loss can be even be deadly, so be extremely careful.
Symptoms
It is important to know the signs of potential dehydration in cats. With awareness, you can prevent dehydration cases from becoming even more severe. Look out for panting, loss of skin elasticity, dry gums, appetite loss, lethargic behavior, mouth dryness, fast heart rate, sunken eyes, constipation and uncharacteristically depressed mood. If you notice any of these symptoms at all, seek veterinary attention immediately for kitty. These signs could mean that your cat is already severely dehydrated -- or at least is getting there.
Causes
Many everyday, commonplace factors can trigger danger dehydration in felines. For instance, if an outdoor cat spent too much time outside under a humid July sun, dehydration could occur. Many often-minor ailments can also cause serious fluid loss, such as diarrhea and throwing up after eating too fast. Also, if a cat has diabetes, she may experience one of its common effects -- frequent urination. Urinating too often, unsurprisingly, can also lead to fast fluid loss in cats.
Prevention
Many cats aren't big on drinking water and get the bulk of their moisture from wet canned food. However, it also is important to make sure your kitty always clean and fresh water within easy reach. If your cat eats strictly dry food, then fresh water is even more important. Never get lazy when it comes to your pet's health. Water is a major priority for your cat's health.
Treatment
When a cat is severely dehydrated, emergency veterinarian attention is of utmost importance. In these serious cases, veterinarians usually restore water loss either intravenously or subcutaneously. Tests are also usually conducted to determine any possible existing medical conditions that could be contributing to the fluffball's dehydration woes. Dehydration is a relatively common symptom of feline pancreatitis, for example.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.