Why Is My Cat Drinking More Water?

Have you noticed that you're filling your cat's water bowl much more often than you used to? Or is your kitty suddenly trying to get water from any source possible, like sinks, toilets, shower floors, and your water cups, when he never did that before? Perhaps, in addition to (or instead of) more water consumption, you're also noticing your cat suddenly urinating more. There could be more and bigger clumps of urine in the litter box, or your cat may even be leaving big puddles outside the box.

If your cat is drinking more water and urinating more than before, it's important to get him to the vet right away. In the meantime, here are some of the main causes of increased water consumption in cats.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a widespread condition in cats. It can be either acute or chronic, so the signs may come on suddenly or over time.

Increased water consumption and urination are two of the biggest signs of kidney disease in cats and the ones people often notice first, along with weight loss.

Learn more: "Kidney Disease in Cats."

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism diagnoses in cats have been on the rise since the 1970s. The condition is the result of an overactive thyroid gland, usually caused by a benign tumor but sometimes the result of a cancerous one. It causes a super-powered metabolism with a high heart rate and hyperactivity.

While owners of hyperthyroid cats usually notice increased appetite and sudden weight loss first, increased water consumption is also a big sign of the disease.

Learn more: "Hyperthyroidism in Cats."

Diabetes Mellitus

The first thing many people think of when they notice their cat drinking water excessively is diabetes mellitus and with good reason. That condition is common in middle-aged and older cats, especially overweight or obese ones.

Also, cats with diabetes often lose weight fast and may have either a bigger or smaller appetite.

Learn more: "Feline Diabetes Mellitus."

How to Determine the Cause of Increased Water Consumption in Cats

If your cat is drinking more water than usual, your veterinarian will do a thorough exam to look for clues about the reason. Then, the doctor will do some blood work and a urinalysis to get to a diagnosis.

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