When a dog or cat drinks a lot of water, it may be a sign of something medical going on. When I see my house call Veterinary clients, I always ask a series of questions, even if the pet is seen for a well visit. One of those questions is whether or not a pet is drinking a lot of water. I often will here a reply that "yes, but we just turned the heat on" in the winter; or "yes, but it is hot outside" in the summer. Drinking more water can be a symptom of many different disease processes. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Lyme disease (with secondary kidney involvement)
- Organ disease, such as liver or kidney
- Endocrine (hormone) disease, such as Diabetes or Cushings (adrenal disease)
- High Calcium
- Cancer
Some tests that may be recommended by your Veterinarian include a urinalysis, blood work, urine culture, 4DX or other lyme test, and x-rays and/or ultrasound. This will depend on what is found on physical exam.
So, don't ignore if you pet is drinking more. Obtain a urine sample in a clean, dry container and make an appointment to see your Veterinarian.
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Lyme disease (with secondary kidney involvement)
- Organ disease, such as liver or kidney
- Endocrine (hormone) disease, such as Diabetes or Cushings (adrenal disease)
- High Calcium
- Cancer
Some tests that may be recommended by your Veterinarian include a urinalysis, blood work, urine culture, 4DX or other lyme test, and x-rays and/or ultrasound. This will depend on what is found on physical exam.
So, don't ignore if you pet is drinking more. Obtain a urine sample in a clean, dry container and make an appointment to see your Veterinarian.
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