I'm honestly at my wit's end and could really use some advice. My beloved cat, Muffin, hasn't touched her water bowl in almost two months! She's a 7-year-old tabby, and up until recently, she would drink normally, but now it's like she doesn't care for it anymore. I make sure her bowl is always clean and full, and I've even tried enticing her with different types of fresh water and ice cubes, but she's just not interested. She's still eating and seems okay otherwise, but I'm really worried that she's not getting enough fluids. I've been incorporating wet food into her diet to help with hydration, but I can't help but feel anxious. Has anyone else dealt with anything like this? Any tips or insights would be hugely appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Hello! I'm glad you reached out with this concern about your cat. Cats can be quite secretive, so it might seem like they aren't drinking much when they're actually getting enough water. This could happen if they're eating wet food, which contains a lot of moisture.
However, if your cat genuinely hasn't had any water for two months, it might be experiencing an underlying issue such as kidney problems, dental pain, or illness. Cats naturally have a low thirst drive, but they do need water to stay healthy.
Try observing your cat for other signs, such as lethargy, decreased appetite, or changes in urination. It might help to offer them fresh water daily, provide a pet water fountain, or even add water to their food to encourage more intake.
Dehydration can become a serious concern if not addressed. Signs of severe dehydration include sunken eyes, dry gums, and skin that doesn't snap back quickly when gently pinched. If you spot any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek veterinary care promptly.
I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets through Dial A Vet to discuss your cat's health. This will help in understanding any potential issues and guide you on the next steps needed to support your furry friend.
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