Why is My Dog or Cat Drinking More Water?

Introduction to Increased Thirst in Dogs and Cats

Increased thirst, medically known as polydipsia, is a symptom observed in both dogs and cats that can be caused by a variety of conditions. Noticing your pet drinking more water than usual is important and should prompt a consultation with your vet to identify the underlying cause. This guide will provide insights into possible reasons for increased thirst and practical steps to monitor your pet effectively.

Medical Reasons for Increased Drinking

Several medical conditions may cause your dog or cat to drink more water. These include:

1. Kidney (renal) dysfunction: When the kidneys cannot concentrate urine effectively, the pet drinks more to compensate and maintain hydration.
2. Liver (hepatic) disease: Liver problems can disrupt fluid balance, leading to increased thirst.
3. Diabetes mellitus: Common in pets, this condition results in excess blood sugar, causing increased urination and thirst. Puppies and adult dogs may be affected.
4. Diabetes insipidus: A rare disorder where the kidneys fail to conserve water, causing excessive thirst and urination.
5. Addison’s disease: Reduced production of adrenal steroids affects water and electrolyte balance.
6. Pyometra: Infection of the womb mainly in unspayed female dogs or cats causes increased thirst and other serious symptoms.
7. Urinary tract infections: These infections prompt more frequent urination and therefore increased drinking.
8. Behavioural issues: Occasionally, pets develop compulsive drinking habits which then worsen thirst.
9. Hyperthyroidism: Particularly common in older cats, this leads to increased metabolism and thirst.
10. Cushing’s disease: Excess cortisol production leads to increased water consumption and urination.

Non-Medical Causes of Increased Thirst

Not all causes of thirst are serious medical issues. Consider these benign possibilities:

1. Warmer weather or increased humidity naturally raise fluid requirements.
2. Higher activity levels, excitement or anxiety can stimulate thirst.
3. Changes in diet, such as moving from wet to dry food or increasing salt content, affect water consumption.
4. Certain prescription diets may contain higher sodium levels influencing thirst.
5. Medications like diuretics or phenobarbital can increase water intake.
6. Low protein diets might also contribute to increased thirst.

How to Monitor Your Pet’s Water Intake

When you suspect increased thirst, measuring your pet’s water intake can provide valuable information for your vet. In a single-pet household, fill your pet’s bowl with a known amount of water and top it up with the same measured volume. After 24 hours, measure remaining water and calculate intake by subtracting this from the total.

Be aware that cats and dogs may drink elsewhere, such as from puddles or taps, so monitor carefully. If multiple pets share a water source, it can be challenging to track individual intake.

The average daily water intake for mammals is around 44 to 66 ml per kilogram of body weight, but individual needs vary. It’s very important never to restrict your pet’s access to water unless advised by your vet to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment

If your pet visits the vet due to increased drinking, hospitalisation may sometimes be necessary to precisely measure water consumption and urine output. This aids in accurate diagnosis and assessment of their hydration status.

Common tests include urine specific gravity, which checks kidney function and concentration ability. Additional diagnostics might include blood tests and radiographs depending on symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to manage potential underlying conditions.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Increased thirst in your dog or cat is a sign that shouldn’t be ignored. Pay attention to behavioural changes, monitor water intake, and seek veterinary advice without delay. Timely intervention can address many underlying causes and improve your pet’s quality of life. Responsible pet ownership means staying vigilant to such health signals and acting with compassion and care.