Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Feline Adipsia Polydipsia Welfare

Abnormal water intake in cats can signal serious underlying disease - systematic assessment guides welfare-focused management.

Key Facts

Polydipsia (excessive drinking) in cats is defined as more than 100ml/kg/day
Common causes include CKD, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and pyometra
Adipsia (absent thirst drive) typically indicates neurological disease
Urine specific gravity differentiates concentrating (prerenal) from non-concentrating causes
Prompt diagnosis of the underlying cause enables disease-specific welfare management

Welfare Considerations

Abnormal water intake is a welfare signal requiring investigation rather than management in isolation. Identifying and treating the underlying cause prevents progression of the disease causing the symptom and directly improves welfare.

What You Can Do

Monitor your cat's water intake as part of routine health observation
Seek veterinary assessment promptly for any cat showing increased or decreased drinking
Provide multiple water sources to ensure adequate hydration for all cats