Why is my cat drinking more water?
This article explains how increased water intake can be a sign of feline disease. Read on to find out about different causes of increased water intake in cats.
How much water do cats normally drink?
Depending on their diet, your cat will likely drink more when fed a dry food diet than a wet food diet. However, any change in their normal drinking patterns should be monitored.
You can monitor your cats water intake over 24 hours:
Fill your cat’s water bowl to the brim. Ensure only the one cat is drinking from the bowl, then measure the amount left over at the end of the 24 hour period - subtracting the remaining amount from the full volume of water in the bowl
A normal cat will drink up to 100ml/kg of their body weight per day. However, any cat that is drinking more than usual should see their veterinarian.
Common causes of increased water intake in cats?
The most common causes of increased drinking (polydipsia) in cats include:
Kidney disease
Diabetes mellitus
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Liver disease
Urinary tract disease
Diarrhoea
What should I do if my cat is drinking excessively?
Increased thirst is generally a symptom of internal disease and it’s important to have your cat checked by a veterinarian to find the cause. Many of the disease processes have successful management or treatment options.
How does my vet investigate if my cat is drinking too much?
As well as obtaining a thorough history and full physical examination, your vet will use the following tests initially to get to the bottom of your cat's excessive drinking habits. Let your vet know how much they’re drinking at your visit.
CBC - complete blood count to check the proportions of blood cells
Serum Biochemistry - to check the organs
Urinalysis - to check the urine
Additional tests may be required to diagnose certain conditions and to monitor progress after treatment has been initiated.
Is there anything that I should not do if my cat seems to be drinking too much?
Do not restrict access to water. It may result in dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, causing serious secondary problems.
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Written by Dr. Kirra Balmanno