How To Recognize & Care For a Dehydrated Cat

Cats tend to hide their illnesses, so it can be hard to tell if something is bothering them. It can be especially difficult to tell when a cat is dehydrated, which is why it's so important for pet owners to be familiar with the signs of a dehydrated cat. Since cats are naturally less inclined to drink water compared to other animals, they can be more susceptible to dehydration, especially when underlying health issues or environmental factors are at play. The sooner the issue is noticed, the easier it should be to treat.

What Is Dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when the body loses an excessive amount of fluid. It can cause serious complications for cats and even result in death. Water makes up 80 percent of your cat's body, and it's essential for normal body function.

Dehydration isn't just an imbalance of water within the body. It also causes an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Electrolytes play an important role within the body as they are critical for the normal function of all cells. An imbalance of essential electrolytes can disrupt the function of a cat's organs and systems.

It's important to be familiar with dehydrated cat symptoms, so you can quickly take action before lasting damage is done.

Signs of Dehydration in Cats

One of the most common signs of dehydration in cats is the loss of skin elasticity, also known as skin tenting. You can test your cat's skin elasticity by pinching the skin above your cat's shoulders and gently pulling it up. A hydrated cat's skin will quickly snap back into place when released. As a cat becomes dehydrated, the skin will go back into place more slowly. A severely dehydrated cat's skin may even stay up and look like a tent. 

If the pinch of skin stays up, this is a sign of severe dehydration. Cats that display signs of skin tenting should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Other symptoms of dehydration in cats include:

• Lethargy
•  Loss of appetite
•  Dry, tacky gums
•  Sunken eyes
•  Dry mouth
•  Depression
•  Panting
•  Elevated heart rate
•  Less urination

Causes of Dehydration in Cats

There are various causes of dehydration in cats; in many cases, it’s a symptom of another disease or condition. Heat stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, fever, and other health issues can all lead to dehydration in cats. Other causes include decreased water intake, overheating in hot weather, increased activity, and increased fluid loss due to vomiting or cat diarrhea. Excessive salt intake can lead to increased thirst and fluid loss. Post-operative recovery can sometimes include reduced fluid intake or increased fluid loss. Blood loss or shock from injury can also lead to dehydration. Stress or behavioral changes may lead to reduced water consumption.

Caring For a Dehydrated Cat

Dehydration can range in severity from mild to very severe. If your cat has persistent vomiting and/or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your vet may need to administer subcutaneous or intravenous fluids to replace lost fluids. He or she will also determine the underlying cause of dehydration, which may result in further treatment.

Mild cases of dehydration can generally be treated at home. Replacing water and electrolytes is essential for rehydrating a cat. Make sure your cat has constant access to fresh, clean water. If your cat isn't drinking enough water, try some of these tips!

• Some cats prefer running water, so you can encourage your cat to drink by using a water fountain.
• Try putting juice from canned tuna or salmon into the water for a different flavor.
• Offer your cat an ice cube or put ice cubes into his water bowl. Some cats are fascinated with ice cubes, so this may encourage them to drink more water.
• Switch to wet food if your cat is currently eating dry food. A can of wet cat food is about 70-80% water, so this will help increase water intake.
• Some cats are finicky, so changing up the water source might help. Try offering bottled or filtered water.
• Cleaning the water bowl and changing out the water regularly may also help, as some cats are sensitive to the smell of old water.

Because dehydration causes an electrolyte imbalance, it's important to replace lost electrolytes, as well. You can correct an imbalance of electrolytes by giving your cat an oral electrolyte supplement to help maintain positive fluid levels and support hydration.

Preventing Dehydration in Cats

There are a few steps you can take to help prevent dehydration in cats. It’s important to ensure your cat always has access to clean, fresh water, and you should change the water frequently. Keeping your cat inside on hot days, being familiar with the signs of dehydration, and monitoring your cat’s water intake will also help prevent dehydration.

HydrADE:  Electrolytes for Cats by Lots of Love Pet Products

At Lots of Love Pet Products, we understand that dehydration can be a serious issue for your beloved pet, which is why we offer HydrADE from Lots of Love Pet Products, for cats who need quick hydration. This supplement is specifically formulated to help maintain positive fluid levels during episodes of dehydration in cats. It helps support normal hydration and encourages water consumption. Plus, it contains the three essential components of a complete electrolyte solution for cats—amino acids, dextrose, and electrolytes.

Benefits of hydrade – Replaces lost electrolytes, supports electrolyte balance, help support hydration levels during episodes of dehydration, supports energy production at a cellular level, helps support muscle function & maintains normal fluid balance in the blood & tissues.

Dog & cat hydration – Keep your furry best friend happy and healthy with a balanced diet of electrolytes that are tailored specifically for them! Perfect for competing dogs, cats with digestive upset, those on treatments, or other sources of stress – HydrADE will ensure proper hydration no matter the circumstances.

Ideal for all pets! – Perfect for sporting dogs, show animals, or pets experiencing times of high activity, stress from the summer heat, or recovery from surgery or illness. Supports normal hydration & encourages water consumption so your pet can keep up with you!

Having a dehydrated cat can be a scary experience. Being familiar with the signs of dehydration in cats and taking quick action are key steps for protecting your cat's health!

Buy this exceptional product today to effectively support your cat’s rehydration and improve its overall health and energy levels.