Dehydration

Dehydration is common in pets, and it can lead to serious problems. If your cat doesn't feel well, if he has quit eating, if he has been exposed to excessive amounts of heat without water, or if he is vomiting and not keeping water down, chances are he's dehydrated.

How to know if your cat is dehydrated?

If a cat is not eating or drinking, or if he is having vomiting or diarrhea, the safest thing is to do is to assume is that the cat is dehydrated. This may not always be the case but assuming that it is dehydration is the safest approach.

Here are some signs of dehydration that you should be aware of:


• Loss of skin elasticity
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Sunken eyes
• Dry gums
• Increased heart rate
• Slow capillary refill time

You will often see veterinarians lift up the loose skin over the back and watch for its mobility. A slow return to normal can be a sign of dehydration. Some cats will also have sunken eyes, an increased heart rate and slow capillary refill times.

If you think your cat is dehydrated - see your veterinarian immediately.