Cat Dehydration - Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Cat Dehydration - Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Dehydration in cats can be a serious matter. Whether caused by illness, exposure to heat, or a simple lack of fluid intake, dehydration must be addressed immediately and, left untreated, can cause multiple health problems including organ failure and death. It is very easy for a cat to become dehydrated; easier than many pet owners realize. Fortunately it is also easy to prevent dehydration in cats and it is very important to do so.

Cat dehydration is an excess loss of bodily fluids. It most often involves the loss of water and minerals such as sodium, chloride, and potassium; collectively called electrolytes. Dehydration in cats can be caused by illness (especially if the cat has a fever), exposure to extreme heat, and a number of other factors. A cat's natural act of panting causes a loss of fluids and can result in dehydration if they are not replaced. Remember that cats lack sweat glands to keep them cool. They pant in an effort to regulate their body temperature. A panting cat is a hot cat.

Preventing Cat Dehydration

The best way to prevent dehydration is to make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water available. The cat should always have at least one full bowl of water available at all times and, if the cat has the run of the house, bowls in various locations may be appropriate. If you live in a dry climate cats should be kept indoors as much as possible, especially in the hot summer months. When they are outdoors it is imperative that cats have an available supply of fresh water. Moist foods also help maintain appropriate levels of bodily fluids in cats. Dry foods are important for a cat's dental health, but moist foods are a good idea as well.

Treating a Dehydrated Cat

If you suspect cat dehydration, get it some water immediately and then get it to the vetrinarian. Signs of dehydration can include a lack of elasticity to the skin, dry and sunken eyes, and a dry mouth and nose. Dehydrated cats will also experience a delay in capillary refill time. To test for this, pull the cat's lip away from its gum (gently) and press a finger against the gum until the area whitens. Release your finger and the color should return to the area almost immediately. A delay could be an indication of dehydration.

Lots of water is the best way to replace fluids, but a severely dehydrated cat should not be allowed to take in large amounts at once. This will result in vomiting and a further loss of fluids. Instead let the cat drink small amounts over a period of time. Electrolytes can be replaced with a hydrating solution. Pedialyte, a water and electrolyte product sold for infants is suitable for cats as well. Of course any cat that seems dehydrated or refuses to drink should be seen by a vet to determine appropriate treatment and whether the dehydration is a symptom of some other ailment.

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Disclaimer

The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. The site owner makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites which may contain additional information about the symptoms of dehydration or dehydration pictures.

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