Why Dehydration Is So Common in Cats

Understanding Your Cat’s Unique Hydration Needs

Cats are fascinating creatures with some pretty unique biology—especially when it comes to staying hydrated. At Partners Animal Hospital Asheville, we often see cats who aren’t drinking enough water, and dehydration can quietly impact their health. Understanding why this happens can help you keep your feline friend happy and healthy.

A Look Back at Your Cat’s Ancestors

Domestic cats evolved from wild desert cats who survived in dry environments with very little free water available. These ancestors got most of their moisture from the prey they caught—small animals like rodents and birds that are naturally rich in water.

Because of this, cats have some interesting adaptations:

• Their bodies produce very concentrated urine to conserve water (hence why cat pee smells so strongly)
  
• They have a relatively low thirst drive compared to many other animals, meaning they don’t feel the need to drink water as often.
  

In short, cats aren’t naturally built to drink lots of water, and they rely heavily on moisture from their food.

How Modern Diets Affect Hydration

Today’s cats often eat dry kibble, which contains only about 6-10% moisture. This is a big change from their ancestral diet, which was made up mostly of high-moisture prey.

Many cats don’t compensate by drinking enough water alongside their dry food, which puts them at risk for chronic dehydration. Over time, this can lead to:

• Concentrated urine that increases the risk of urinary tract issues
  
• Added stress on the kidneys, potentially contributing to kidney disease
  
• Lower energy levels and overall health concerns
  
  

Signs Your Cat May Be Dehydrated

Cats can be subtle about showing they’re not feeling well, but some signs to watch for include:

• Dry or sticky gums
  
• Loss of skin elasticity (gently lift the skin between the shoulder blades—it should snap back quickly)
  
• Lethargy or decreased activity
  
• Sunken eyes
  
• Reduced appetite or changes in litter box habits
  

If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to bring your cat in for a checkup and possibly get some fluids going to help them out.

Tips to Keep Your Cat Hydrated

• Feed wet or canned food regularly to provide extra moisture
  
• Offer fresh water daily—some cats prefer running water from a fountain rather than a standing bowl.
  
• Add water or low-sodium broth to your cat’s meals
  
• Keep an eye on your cat’s drinking habits and litter box output
  

Partner with Us for Your Cat’s Health

If you’re worried your cat isn’t drinking enough or want advice on feeding and hydration, we’re here to help. Together, we can create a plan to keep your cat properly hydrated and thriving.

Schedule an appointment at Partners Animal Hospital Asheville today