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When
it comes to water, getting enough of it is serious
business for dogs and cats. Without adequate fluids
to keep tissues moist and transport nutrients throughout
the body, an animal will die from dehydration.
Dog Drinking More Water Early in the Morning? Diabetes Warning Signs
When
is a pet at risk of becoming dehydrated? A drop
in fluid levels, however, can result from overheating
in hot weather. More serious dehydration can occur
when an animal has been vomiting excessively or
has severe diarrhea. Diabetic animals who have become
unregulated also face the risk of dehydration, as
can cats and dogs who are battling serious or prolonged
illnesses, such as kidney disease, cancer and hyperthyroidism.
Prolonged fever is another common cause of dehydration.
Symptoms
of dehydration include sunken eyes, exhaustion,
appetite loss, depression and a dry mouth. To check
that your pet has been getting enough water, pull
the skin on the scruff of his neck and let it go
- it should flatten back into place. If the skin
stays in position or returns to normal only after
he has shaken himself, your pet may be low on fluids.
Is Your Dog or Cat Not Drinking Water? Dehydration Intervention
If
you suspect that your pet is dehydrated, consider
this an emergency and take him to the veterinarian
immediately. In a worst case scenario, a very young
kitten suffering from diarrhea for even one day
can die from lack of fluids. Dehydration is not
always easy to judge, and only a doctor can properly
evaluate your pet and provide him with life-saving
fluids.
To
make sure your healthy cat or dog remains hydrated,
there are several things you can do. Dogs and cats
lose water every day in their urine and feces and
through panting, so it's important that water is
available for your pet at all times. Change it frequently
to keep it clean and fresh. Bring along a water
bottle when exercising outside or traveling with
your pet-for even short distances.
If
your pet is recovering from a slight case of diarrhea
or vomiting, ANIMED recommends that you monitor
his water intake. Drinking too much, too fast can
cause him to vomit, resulting in additional loss
of fluid. It's a good idea to give recuperating
pets an ice cube or two to lick. Since this takes
a bit longer than drinking, it ensures gradual hydration.
You
also may want to give your recuperating pet a drink
that's rich in electrolytes. Veterinarians recommend
sports drinks or Pedialyte, a formula for babies
available in drug stores and supermarkets. Check
with your doctor before going this route. And one
more tip: if you happen to notice that your dog
or cat is drinking less than usual, it might be
a good idea to take a look inside his mouth-foreign
objects such as twigs or burrs could cause your
pet to avoid the water dish.
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