Why Is My Cat Drinking a Lot Of Water

Every cat owner knows their furry friend has a unique personality and habits, but sometimes, those habits can change, leaving you with a few puzzled questions.

One common change that might raise concern is an increase in water intake.

Why is My Cat Drinking a Lot of Water?

Why is my cat drinking a lot of water, Increased water intake in cats, also known as polydipsia, can be a sign of a variety of conditions, from simple thirst to serious medical problems.

It’s important to pay attention to your cat’s water intake and look for any other concerning symptoms.

Understanding a Cat’s Normal Water Intake

A cat’s water intake can vary based on their age, activity level, and diet.

But generally, a healthy adult cat drinks about 1/2 cup of water per 5 pounds of body weight, daily.

Common Reasons Why a Cat Might Drink More Water

Here are some common reasons why a cat might drink more water:

• Increased Activity: Cats who are more active, especially during hot weather, might drink more water to help stay hydrated.
• Dietary Changes: Cats might drink more water if they’re eating a diet with a higher percentage of dry food or if they’ve switched to a new food.

A Case Study: Whiskers’ Summer Thirst

Whiskers, a 5-year-old Maine Coon, started drinking more water during the summer months.

His owner, David, noticed that Whiskers’ water bowl was empty more frequently than usual. “He’s normally a pretty good drinker,” David says, “but he seemed to be gulping down water a lot more when it was hot out.”

• Stress: Stress can also lead to increased water intake in cats. Stress can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as:
  • Moving to a New Home: Relocating can be stressful for cats.
  • Introducing a New Pet: Adding a new pet to the household can be stressful for existing cats.
  • Loud Noises: Loud noises, such as fireworks or thunderstorms, can be stressful for cats.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Increased water intake can be a symptom of a variety of medical conditions, including:
  • Kidney Disease: Kidney disease, also known as chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a common condition in older cats. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and regulating fluid balance. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they can’t filter waste as effectively, leading to a buildup of toxins and an increase in thirst.

Recognizing Other Signs of Illness

While increased water intake can be a sign of a health problem, it’s important to remember that this is just one symptom.

Pay close attention to your cat’s behavior and look for any other concerning signs that might accompany an increase in water intake. These could indicate a more serious problem.

• Loss of Appetite: If your cat is not eating, it’s a big red flag, especially if it’s accompanied by increased water intake.
• Vomiting: Forceful expulsion of contents from the stomach.
• Diarrhea: Loose stool.
• Difficulty Breathing: Labored breathing or gasping for air.
• Changes in Urination: Difficulty urinating or urinating more frequently.
• Changes in Behavior: Sudden increase in vocalization, hiding, aggression, or changes in personality.
• Lethargy: If your cat is lethargic, or if they’re not interested in eating.
• Weight Loss: If your cat is losing weight.
• Changes in the Appearance of Gums: The gums should normally be a healthy pink color. Pale gums can be a sign of anemia, dehydration, or other medical problems.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swollen lymph nodes, especially if they are painful or firm, can be a sign of infection or inflammation.

A Case Study: Whiskers’ Increased Thirst

Whiskers, the Maine Coon mentioned earlier, also started urinating more frequently.

David noticed that Whiskers’ litter box was getting dirtier faster than usual. “He’s normally a pretty good drinker,” David says, “but now he seems to be drinking and urinating a lot more than usual.”

David took Whiskers to the vet, who performed a physical exam and ran blood tests.

The veterinarian suspected that Whiskers might have kidney disease. “The vet explained that kidney disease can affect the body’s ability to regulate fluids, which can lead to an increase in thirst and urination,” David says.

The veterinarian recommended that David start monitoring Whiskers’ water intake and take him for regular checkups to monitor his kidney function.

Diagnosing Increased Water Intake in Cats

Diagnosing the cause of increased water intake in cats requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian.

They will perform a physical exam, ask about your cat’s history, and often recommend some additional testing.

• Physical Examination: The veterinarian will assess your cat’s overall health, including their weight, body condition, and any signs of illness. They will check your cat’s temperature, pulse, and respiration, and they will examine their eyes, ears, nose, teeth, and gums. They will also feel your cat’s abdomen and lymph nodes for any abnormalities.
• Bloodwork: Blood tests can help identify a variety of medical conditions, including hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, liver disease, and diabetes.
• Urinalysis: A urinalysis can detect urinary tract infections, kidney problems, and other conditions. It can also help to assess the concentration of ketones in the urine, which can be a sign of diabetes.
• Radiographs (X-rays): X-rays can be used to examine bones, organs, and other structures, helping to diagnose a variety of conditions.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs, providing a detailed view of the organs and surrounding structures.

Treating Increased Water Intake in Cats

Treatment for increased water intake in cats depends on the underlying cause.

• Dietary Changes: If increased water intake is related to diet, your veterinarian can help you choose a food that’s appropriate for your cat’s age, breed, and activity level.
• Stress Management: Try to reduce stress in your cat’s environment by:
  • Providing Safe Spaces: Offer your cat a quiet, comfortable space where they can feel secure.
  • Using Pheromone Diffusers: Pheromone diffusers can help to create a calming environment.
  • Playing with Your Cat: Playtime can help to relieve stress.
• Medications: If increased water intake is caused by a medical condition, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to treat the underlying problem. For example:
  • Medications to Treat Hyperthyroidism, Kidney Disease, or Liver Disease: Medications to manage the underlying medical condition.
  • Antibiotics: Medications to treat bacterial infections, such as UTIs.
• Dietary Management: If your cat has kidney disease, your veterinarian may recommend a special diet to help reduce the workload on their kidneys.

A Case Study: Whiskers’ Kidney Disease Management

Whiskers, the Maine Coon with kidney disease, responded well to treatment.

The veterinarian prescribed him medication to help manage his kidney function, and David started feeding him a special diet that was low in protein and phosphorus.

“Whiskers is doing much better now,” David says. “He’s still drinking more water than he used to, but he’s eating better, and he seems to have more energy. It’s a relief to see him feeling better.”

Tips for Caring for a Cat Who is Drinking More Water

• Monitor Your Cat’s Behavior: Pay close attention to your cat’s behavior, especially if they’re drinking more water or showing other signs of illness.
• Provide Fresh Water: Make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times.
• Consult a Veterinarian Immediately: If you notice any signs of increased water intake, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. These could be signs of a serious medical condition that requires treatment.

Conclusion

Increased water intake in cats can be a sign of a variety of conditions, but it’s important to remember that your cat is still your loving companion.

By understanding the causes and seeking professional help, you can help your cat receive prompt veterinary care and increase their chances of a good outcome.