Excessive Thirst in Senior Cats: Causes, Symptoms and What to Do Next

Have you noticed your beloved senior cat start drinking more water than usual? That slight change in behavior change can spark a wave of worry, transforming a familiar sight into a cause for concern. As dedicated cat parents, we intuitively notice these small changes and an increased thirst in an older feline companion often signals something more serious. Older cats can develop an increased thirst due to specific underlying problems. It may be as simple as a change in routine; at other times, it’s a health concern that needs to be unraveled 

This comprehensive guide is designed to address your immediate concern, helping you understand why your senior cat may be experiencing excessive thirst and what steps you need to take. We will dig into common medical causes, highlight crucial associated symptoms, and provide a clear action plan for when to seek veterinary care and what to expect.

By the end of this article, you will gain clarity, peace of mind and the actionable knowledge needed to be your senior cat’s strongest supporter and protector, ensuring they receive the comfort and care they deserve. We’ll provide you with the clarity and information you need to confidently handle this situation, from recognizing the signs to understanding the diagnosis and ongoing management.

What is Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia) in Older Cats:

Polydipsia in cats refers to excessive thirst and increased water intake above the normal range, often accompanied by increased urination. The average daily water intake for cats is 2-4 ounces per 5 pounds of body weight or 50mls of fluid per kilogram of body weight daily. The average water intake in senior cats depends on several factors, including diet, activity level, and environmental temperature. Excessive thirst and urination can be a sign of many serious illnesses, so consult a veterinarian if you notice this in your cat.

Understanding Your Senior Cat’s Thirst: A Critical Observation

Increased thirst in senior cats can indicate serious medical conditions like kidney diseases, Hyperthyroidism, Diabetes, etc. Monitoring is crucial to observe your cat’s water intake and consult a Vet, which may indicate “polydipsia” (excessive thirst and increased water consumption). To assess your cat’s drinking habits, follow the guidelines below to diagnose early.

1.Observe frequency, volume, and changes in water bowl level. To do this, use a marked bowl to observe easily how much water your cat has been using.

Marked Water Bowl

Amazon Choice4.7/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Yedio
• Material: Ceramic
• Color: White
• Special Features : Flip Proof, Durable, Nonslip, Anti Vomiting, Food Grade Material
• Capacity: 15 oz

Sturdy White Cat Bowl: Processed by professional porcelain craftsmanship technology under higher temperature, Yedio white porcelain bowls are more sturdier and not easily tarnish after long time use. Elevate your cat feeding experience with our exquisite ceramic cat bowl, crafted for both attactive appeal and functional durability

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2. Suppose you are not using a marked bowl, etc. Use a Digital kitchen scale (for precise measurement of refilled/remaining water in bowls). Because
Accurately measure your cat’s daily water intake by refilling an estimated amount and noting the remaining water at the end of the day. This data provides concrete data for your vet. 

Stainless Steel Food Scale with Pull-Out Display

Top Pick4.8/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: OXO
• Special Features: Large Display;Portable;Backlit Display
• Color: Black
• Display Type: Digital
• Weight Capacity: 11 Pond

Stainless steel is smudge and fingerprint-resistant
Zero function for taring the scale before weighing additional ingredients
Digital screen with large, easy-to-read numbers
Removable platform for convenient cleaning
Pull-Out display prevents shadowing from large plates or bowls

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If you are looking for a pocket-friendly option, consider Amazon’s favorite scale below, but note that this option may be less precise for you. 

Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display

Amazon Choice

Features:

• Brand: Amazon Basics
• Special Features: Large Display, Strain Gauge
• Color: Black
• Display Type: LCD
• Weight Capacity: 11 Pond

Digital kitchen scale with food-safe, BPA-free plastic components
Stainless steel platform with wide LCD screen
Weighs up to 11 pounds (2 grams minimum, up to about 5000 grams); displays results in pounds, ounces, grams, fluid ounces, and ml
Tare button for measuring just the food, minus the container weight

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3.Keep a log of your cat’s water consumption, urination frequency, and other symptoms, such as appetite change and weight loss, and share it with your vet. Use readymade Dairies or Books to record the details.

Health Record My CAT

4.7/5Our Score

Features:

• Author: Cat & MED
• Special Features: 100 pages.
• Purpose: Pet health record
• Dimensions: 15 cm x 22 cm
• Publication Date: June 13, 2020

The first page has the necessary information to identify your cat.
The second page contains some important information about your Cat’s general state of health.
This notebook contains pages for recording vaccination information as well as detailed notes from each medical appointment.
Allows you to keep track of your cat’s veterinary appointments and to follow up on.
Vaccinations, deworming and dates of veterinary appointments.
This notebook will allow you to keep track of your Cat’s veterinary appointments.

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Accurate measurement is necessary by using different techniques because it provides concrete data to your vet.

Common Causes of Increased Thirst in Older Cats

So if you see an old cat drinking a lot of water it’s natural to ask what’s going on. There are a few common health conctions that could be responsible for the this increased thirst, as our cats age.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

One of the leading causes of an old cat drinking a lot of water all together is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Over time, our cats’ kidneys may not work as well, and can’t filter waste as well. If unchecked, this can result in symptoms like extra thirst, more frequent urination, weight loss, and a small amount of lethargy.

Diabetes

Another reason an old cat drinking a lot of water and losing weight is due to diabetes. Diabetes affects the cat in the same way as in people – it makes the cat unable to control the blood: increased thirst and increased urination. You might also see such signs like an increase in appetite but with obvious weight loss.

Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid gland produces hormones, speeding the metabolism in hyperthyroidism. This results in drinking too much, as your old cat might drink a lot of water, and other symptoms such as restlessness and weight loss.

Other Possible Causes

Liver disease.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder issues.

Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids).

Electrolyte imbalances.

Rare conditions like Cushing’s disease or primary polydipsia.

Other Critical Symptoms to Watch for Alongside Increased Thirst:

Weight Loss: Even subtle changes, often unnoticed until significant. Use a high-quality digital Pet Scale to measure weight accurately.

Changes in Urination:

Increased frequency (polyuria) or volume.

Straining or discomfort during urination.

Urinating outside the litter box.

Changes in urine color or odor.

Appetite Changes:

Increased appetite (polyphagia) despite weight loss (common in hyperthyroidism and diabetes).

Decreased appetite or anorexia.

Picky eating or refusing favorite foods.

Lethargy or Weakness: Reduced energy, more sleep, less interaction.

Vomiting or Diarrhea can indicate a systemic illness or dehydration.

Changes in Grooming/Coat Quality: Unkempt, greasy, or dull coat  along with flakes.

Behavioral Changes: Hiding, increased vocalization, clinginess, restlessness, irritability.

How Symptoms Correlate with Conditions:

Thirst + Weight Loss + Increased Appetite → Hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid increases metabolism, leading to weight loss despite increased food intake.

Thirst + Weight Loss + Decreased appetite → Kidney Disease

Damaged kidneys can’t filter waste, causing toxin buildup, nausea, and poor appetite.

Thirst + Vomiting + Lethargy → Diabetes

Poor sugar regulation leads to dehydration, vomiting, and energy loss.

Thirst + Weakness + Poor Coat → Liver Disease

The impaired liver function causes toxin buildup, a dull coat, and reduced energy.

Table: Key Differences in Symptoms for Common Cause of Polydipsia:

Condition	Primary Symptoms	Associated Signs	Key Diagnostic Clues
Chronic Kidney Disease	Polydipsia & polyuria1	Weight loss ↓ Appetite Vomiting/nausea Lethargy Poor coat, halitosis1	↑ BUN & creatinine Urine SG < 1.0301
Diabetes Mellitus	Polydipsia & polyuria2	Polyphagia & weight loss2 Lethargy Occasional vomiting Sweet-smelling breath2	↑ Blood glucose & glucosuria Fructosamine assay2
Hyperthyroidism	Polydipsia & polyuria3	Weight loss despite polyphagia3 Hyperactivity & vocalization Vomiting/diarrhea Poor coat3	↑ Serum T4 levels3
Urinary Tract Infection	Polydipsia & polyuria4	Straining, dysuria, periuria4 Hematuria Periuria (outside box) Painful urination4	Bacteriuria & pyuria on urinalysis4
Liver Disease	Polydipsia & polyuria5	Jaundice (eyes/gums) Vomiting & diarrhea Weight loss Lethargy5	↑ ALT/ALP & bilirubin5

When to See a Vet: Urgency and What Constituent an Emergency

Identifying when your pet required veterinary can be difficult, especially when symptoms appear less severe or build gradually. Certain health issues required quick attention within a day or two, others require instant emergency care to save your pet’s life. Understanding the difference between urgent situations and true emergencies helps ensure your pet gets the right care at the right time.

Immediate Veterinary Attention (Emergency):

If your senior cat shows any of the symptoms below, don’t wait; seek veterinary care immediately. These symptoms may indicate life-threatening conditions that require rapid diagnosis and intervention.

Sudden, drastic increase in water intake.

Extreme fatigue and weakness.

Persistent vomiting or diarrhea.

Collapse or disorientation.

Difficulty in breathing.

Any rapid deterioration in condition

Schedule a Vet Visit Soon (Non-Emergency but Urgent):

If you notice these developing symptoms in your older cat, schedule a vet appointment within a few days, as early evaluation is necessary to catch emerging health conditions before they become critical.

Gradual but noticeable increase in thirst over days/weeks.

Associated subtle symptoms (e.g. mild weight loss, slight change in appetite)

Are there any other new concerning symptoms in cats? The senior cat?

Scheduling a vet visit allows for diagnostic testing, treatment plans and peace of mind so you can keep your feline companion comfortable and healthy.

Understand that increased thirst is almost always a sign of an underlying medical condition in older cats; never ignore or self-diagnose. It requires veterinary assessment.

Preparing for Your Veterinary Visit: What to Tell Your Vet

Pet can’t explain their symptoms, so the Vet heavily relies on your observations. Prepare for your vet visit by writing down all observations, changes, and questions to ensure you cover everything with the veterinarian, allowing for a thorough diagnosis of conditioning conditions.

The Prepared Owner’s Checklist:

Water Intake Data: Bring your “Daily Hydration Log” (if used) with specific measurements.

Symptom Onset and Progression: When did you start first notice changes? How have they progressed?

Associated Symptoms: List all other changes observed (appetite, weight, litter box, energy, behavior).

Dietary Changes: Any recent changes to food or treats.

Medication History: Current medications, supplements, flea/tick preventatives.

Litter Box Habits: Frequency of urination, size of urine clumps, any straining, tracking of litter or presence of blood.

Prepare for your vet visit by writing down all observations, changes, and questions to ensure you cover everything with the veterinarian.

Key Questions to Ask Your Vet:

What are the most likely causes based on my cat’s symptoms?

What diagnostic tests do you recommend and why?

What are the potential costs involved in diagnostics and treatment?

What are the treatment options, and what is the prognosis for my cat’s specific condition?

Are there any dietary changes or home care modifications I should consider?

How will we monitor my cat’s progress?

Common Diagnostic Tests Your Vet May Perform:

To identify the causes of excessive thirst in your senior cat, a vet may perform several tests to diagnose the actual condition.

Blood Tests:

Complete Blood Count (CBC): Screens for anemia, infection, and inflammation.

Biochemistry Profile: Evaluate kidney function (BUN, creatinine), liver enzymes, blood glucose, and electrolyte balance.

Thyroid Panel (T4): Measures circulate thyroid hormone levels to detect hyperthyroidism.

Fructosamine: A long-term glucose indicator for diabetes diagnosis.

Urinalysis:

Purpose: Check urine concentration (specific gravity), presence of glucose, protein, blood, or crystals, and signs of infection.

Imaging:

X-rays (Radiographs): To assess kidney size, bladder stones, or other organ abnormalities.

Ultrasound: Provides detailed images of internal organs, such as the kidneys, liver, and pancreas.

Other Tests (If indicated):

Blood pressure measurement.

FIV/FeLV testing.

Specialized hormone tests.

Living with a Thirsty Senior Cat: Home Care and Quality of Life:

Caring for an older cat often needs more attention, monitoring, comfort, and an expert-backed routine. As cat gets senior, they become more prone to a decrease in kidney function, arthritis, or decreased thirst drive, which can leave them susceptible to dehydration, weight loss, and stress. Through close monitoring and observation, smart hydration aid and a comfortable, stress-free environment help your feline companion maintain strength, mobility, and enthusiasm.

Optimizing Hydration at Home:

As cats get old, proper maintenance of hydration becomes critical to their overall health and comfort. It is your responsibility to make drinking an effortless and enjoyable activity because seniors are more prone to health issues.

Different strategies you may adopt to ensure maximum hydration at home include using multiple accessible water resources throughout your home by using various types of bowls (steel or ceramics) and a pet water fountain, and the use of low-sodium broth or wet cat food.  

 Wide‑Rimmed Water Bowls:

Use Shallow, broad steel bowls, which prevent whisker fatigue and resist bacterial buildup. 

 

Stainless Steel Cat Bowls

Amazon Choice4.8/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: WROSWT
• Special Features: Easy to Clean, Nonslip, Easy to Store
• Recommended Use: Indoor, Dry Food, Wet Food
• Dimensions: 5.98″width,1.22″depth
• Capacity:: 13oz,Holds up to 1.65 cups

Premium 18/8 stainless steel, BPA free, very safe to use. Premium materials and super polishing technology ensure the cat bowl will not be deformed whether your cat or puppy bites or plays. Similarly, 0.5mm thick heavy weight, ensure the cat bowl has a longer life cycle.
Co-construction process, no degumming. Nonslip bottom design ensure that your pet food bowl will not tip over and move easily when your kitten or puppy is eating. Besides, the silicone base can protect your floors, and reduce undesirable noise.
Match with many brands or homemade raised stands. Measure the hole’s diameter before ordering. Smooth surface offers extra convenience to wash.

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Before choosing ceramic, make sure it is weighted. Ceramic models stay put, so water stays where it should, ready for each sip and makes the cat comfortable, reducing neck burden.

Ceramic Raised Cat Bowls

Amazon Choice4.7/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: KITCHENLESTAR
• Material: Ceramic
• Color: Black
• Special Features : Non-Slip Microwave Safe, Lead & Cadmium Free
• Capacity: 8 oz

This cat bowls set are made of premium ceramic, dishwasher and microwave safe. Heavy weight of round base of the bowl ensures stability, makes for secure eating without the mess of tipping over. Premium porcelain material can prevent the cat’s chin from turning black.

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 Pet Water Fountains:

Many cats prefer moving water because flowing water feels fresher, entices more drinking, and continuously filters impurities. So, automatic pet fountains are perfectly fit in this scenario. They came with different features. We chose a perfect fountain for you, which has the best features, and one of them is award-winning as well.

Cat Water Fountain

Amazon’s Choice4.3/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Tomxcute
• Special Features: Automatic & Ultra-Quiet Pump
• Color: Silver
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Capacity: 3.2L/108oz

The cat water fountain is made of 304 stainless steel, and more durable and corrosion resistant. BPA-free and dishwasher safe, easy to clean.Equipped with activated carbon filter and pre-filter sponge, the automatic cat and dog water fountain can provide your pet with pure drinking water and keep healthy.

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Expert Tip: The Position of a fountain must be in a quiet corner to minimize startling noises.

Cat Water Fountain

Award Winner4.3/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Veken
• Special Features: Automatic Water Dispenser with Replacement Filters & Silicone Mat
• Color: Silver
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Capacity: 95oz/2.8L

Opt for a stronger, more hygienic version of our best selling pet fountain. Dishwasher safe and BPA-free, our stainless steel design offers the elevated and modern look you want with additional benefits. Illuminate your pet’s favorite drinking spot with our optional on/off light feature. Designed for assisted visibility of water level and fountain location, our gentle light is perfect for avoiding spills and easy refilling

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Senior Cat-Friendly Wet Food:

To support your senior cat’s hydration and overall health, offer filtered water or low-sodium broth (as approved by your veterinarian) alongside their food. Senior cat-friendly wet options are also recommended, as they not only provide moisture but also promote ease of digestion for senior cats. With a variety of options available in the market, choose according to your cat’s taste. Cat treats are also available to help increase weight with hydration.

Wet Cat Food

Amazon’s Choice4.5/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: 9lives
• Flavor: Meaty Pate Favorites
• Age Range (Description): Adult
• Item Form: Pallet
• Specific Uses For Product: Nutrition

Contains twelve (12) 5.5 oz. cans of 9Lives Meaty Paté Favorites Wet Cat Food: four (4) 5.5 oz. cans of Meaty Paté Super Supper; four (4) 5.5 oz. cans of Meaty Paté With Real Chicken & Tuna; and four (4) 5.5 oz. cans of Meaty Paté With Real Chicken
100% complete nutrition for kittens and adult maintenance

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Natural Wet Cat Food

Editor’s Choice4.2/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Nutrish
• Flavor: Ocean Fish-A-Licious
• Age Range (Description): Adult
• Item Form: Wet
• Specific Uses For Product: Nutrition

Contains (12) 2.8 Ounce Cups of Wet Cat Food
Real fish is the ingredient
No meat by-products or filler ingredients
Grain-free recipe with no artificial flavors, colors or artificial preservatives
Natural wet cat food with added vitamins, minerals & taurine

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Expert Tip: Gradually transitioning your senior cat to a wet food diet can provide essential hydration benefits while supporting their digestive comfort.

Wet Cat Treats for Adult & Senior Cats

Amazons Choice4.7/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Hartz
• Flavor: Tuna & Shrimp
• Age Range (Description): Adult
• Item Form: Wet
• Specific Uses For Product: Weight

CThese bisque cat treats combine tender chicken or succulent fish with a smooth and satisfying sauce for a cat treat so delicious, even the pickiest cats will lick the bowl clean!These delectable cat treats can be used as a quick cat snack or a cat food topper to entice finicky eaters.

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Monitoring and Observation:

Printable Daily Hydration & Symptom Log:

Continued use of the log to monitor water intake, appetite changes and any unusual behaviours each day.

Regular Weight Check:

Check your cat’s weight regularly using an accurate pet scale to detect gradual weight loss early.

Feline Weighing Scale

Editor’s Choice4.5/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: SIKE
• Form Factor : Handheld
• Display type: LCD
• Additional Features: 3 Weighing Modes
• Weight Limit : 44 Pounds

Large, smooth surface with a curved platform comfortably cradles your pet. Accurate readings in seconds. Can be displayed Kilograms (kg), and Pounds (lb)

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Litter Box Observation:

Monitor your cat litter box, i.e. volume and frequency, because any change in this behavior is often the first warning sign of kidney or urinary issues.

Creating a Comfortable Environment:

Create a calm and comfortable environment for your senior cat, minimising stress, especially if they require ongoing medical care. By adopting the methods below, you can easily provide comfort to your cat.

Senior & Orthopedic Cat Beds:

As cats get older, their joints become stiff, and their muscle mass is reduced, which makes ordinary sleeping spots uncomfortable. Senior and orthopaedic cat beds feature memory foam or bolstered sides, which provide extra cushioning that gently supports aching joints and relieves pressure points. Additionally, it regulates body temperature by providing warmth for those who struggle with it. By offering your cat a cosy environment, you promote their sleep and overall comfort.

Orthopedic Cat Beds

Amazons Choice4.5/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Bedsure
• Special Features: Environmentally Friendly, Waterproof, Orthopedic, Easy to Clean, Removable Cover
• Material: Polyester, Polyurethane foam
• Dimension: 20″L x 15″W x 6″Th
• Color: Grey

Our orthopedic cat sofa is designed to give your pet unparalleled support for a deep, dreamy sleep. High-density egg-crate foam helps distribute weight evenly and provides the perfect amount of pressure relief and joint support.This standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified cat bed consists of CertiPUR-US certified foam and luxurious flannel, creating a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend to rest and recharge. The non-skid bottom reduces slips and protects your pet

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Calming Cat Beds

Amazons Choice4.7/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Bedsure
• Special Features: Easy to Clean, Durable, Non Skid Bottom
• Material: Polyester
• Dimension: 20″L x 20″W x 6″Th
• Color: Apple Green

Our calming dog bed is 20% more plush than most competitors, making it softer and comfier. Its high-quality, calming, and warm faux shag fur creates a safe place for your pet to rest and relax.This standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified dog bed creates a safe and comfortable space for your pet to relax and rejuvenate.

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ThermaNAP Self-Warming Cat Bed

Amazons Choice4.6/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Furhaven
• Special Features: Travel, Portable, Heating, Lightweight, Washable
• Material: Polyester
• Dimension: 17″ x 22″ x 0.25″
• Color: Grey

A safe, electricity-free solution to keeping pets warm and toasty; the bed mat is equipped with a layer of insulating fiber batting and mylar, which reflects body heat to create a warm sleep surface for pets to curl up in cozy comfort

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Easy Access: 

As cats age, they often face mobility challenges due to bone and muscle weakness. Providing easy access means setting up your home in a way that provides comfort and reduces physical strain.Low-sided litter boxes and ramps help senior cats perform activities more easily.

Low-sided litter boxes allow senior cats to step in and out without climbing or jumping, helping prevent accidents or discomfort.

Low-Sided Litter Box

Editors Choice4.6/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Ying Tutu
• Material: ABS Plastic
• Color: Multi Colored
• Special Features : Low Entry Senior Litter Pen
• Dimensions: 24″L x 20.2″W x 5.7″H

Extra Large low entry litter box is perfect for senior cats. it makes easily accessible for senior cats with arthritis or cats with mobility issues. No more struggling to get in and out. Our senior cat litter box provide ample space for your furry friend to comfortably do their business.

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Gentle ramps or pet stairs help your cat reach favorite resting spots like beds or windowsills without the need to jump, ensuring they can move around safely and independently.

Tiers Cat Ramp Stairs

Amazon’s Choice4.5/5Our Score

Features:

• Brand: Aodisman
• Material: Corduroy
• Color: Grey
• Special Features : Non-Slip Sturdy Pet Steps
• Dimensions: 22.4″D x 15.7″W x 15.7″H

The sturdy and stable stairs and ramps are designed so that your pet can walk steadily on them to the bed or couch for a close encounter with you. Perfect for small dogs, senior dogs or cats with limited. The stairs are 15.7in high and 15.7in wide. Compatible with most sofas and beds.

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My Personal Experience with an Older Cat Drinking Excessively

I remember when I noticed my old cat drinking a lot of water, it wasn’t a big deal at the time. However, something was eventually not quite right. If I think about it, my cat would be at the water bowl much more and I started to worry, especially when other signs were there, as well, like slight weight loss and more frequent meowing.

 

The first thing I attempted to do was to watch closely and tell when he drinks water and how often. This seeing these changes up close can be a bit unsettling because as you start to imagine all the possible issues: minor infections to major issues. After a week of keeping my eyes open, I thought it was time to check with the vet.

 

They took a little time to assess him and advised some diagnostic tests. We found out that, after some bloodwork and a urine test, he was dealing with early stage kidney disease. This was hard to hear, but it was a relief to finally know what was going on and something we could now start managing.

 

Scheduling regular check ups and a plan of action that includes adjusting his diet, adding more wet food to keep him hydrated helped me feel at ease. It gave me the courage to notice the positive signs in his behavior, and his health, because they were so vital.

 

But looking back, catching it early was such a huge thing for us, and I am glad we were able to help him be able to enjoy his senior years without pain.

Making Treatment Decisions: What Options Might Look Like

If your old cat is diagnosed with a condition and drinks a lot of water, there are specific treatment options for treating their health as effectively as possible. Some common responses to some common diagnoses are here.

Kidney-Friendly Diets for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

One of the first recommendations for older cats diagnosed with CKD is a kidney-friendly diet. The reason that these diets are usually low in phosphorus and protein is to help reduce the kidneys’ workload.

Prescription foods for kidney health are specially formulated to help your cat feel better and need less water. Drinking a large amount of water helps keep your old cat’s kidneys working more efficiently, and wet food helps by making it more ‘moist’ without reducing the nutrition carried by muscle meat.

Insulin Management for Diabetes

Treatment for your old cat’s drinking lots of water because of diabetes includes insulin management. That is the constant use of regular insulin injections or medications to maintain steady levels of blood sugar.

If you need insulin, your vet will tell you how to administer it, and with good care, you can help control the symptoms and help your cat live a higher quality of life.

Hydration Maintenance and Monitoring

Regular monitoring and proper hydration are important for cats with manageable disease conditions such as Hyperthyroidism. If your old cat does tend not to thirst much, the good news is that ensuring that your old cat drinks a lot of water to not suffer from dehydration can help them to take more, as can adding a water fountain or sometimes changing their water bowl often.

It’s also a great idea to schedule regular vet checkups and keep up with any changes to give your pets a regular checkup and make adjustments to their care plan as needed.

Conclusion

One of the things that, as a pet owner, you are probably going to notice is when an old cat starts drinking a whole lot of water for an old cat. Acting early, even if only on a precautionary note, can mean the difference between a good quality of life for your cat or otherwise.

This was when I began to track my own cat’s behavior, and as a result, the diagnosis helped us manage his condition and gave him more healthy years. From a minor adjustment to diet to a given treatment plan, being proactive helps you feel comfortable and keep your pet comfortable.

The fact is, you know your cat best. If you do see signs that seem odd, don’t hesitate to get a vet and get clarity on what is happening. Experience taught me that action meant I could spend more quality time with my beloved pet and allow him to age with the support he needed.

You can help to keep your senior cat happy and comfortable for as long as possible if you watch out for their health, get regular check-ups and change their care when it’s necessary.

Faq Section

Why is my senior cat drinking so much?

Senior cats can become thirstier due to a number of health reasons including Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), diabetes and hyperthyroidism. They need to be monitored for this habit along with other signs and if this habit continues to happen a vet needs to be consulted.

How much water should a senior cat drink?

Water needs can vary greatly, but senior cats should be getting between 3.5–4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body mass per day. Any old cat who drinks a lot more water than in this range may have an undiagnosed disease.

Why is my old cat drinking so much water and losing weight?

Unexplained weight loss like this and a lot of water drinking could be a sign of diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or kidney disease. Each of these conditions needs veterinary evaluation and possibly treatment.

At what age do cats start having urinary problems?

As they age, cats too can develop urinary issues, and this risk peaks around the age of 10. It’s important to go in for frequent vet check ups, that allow them to detect these issues in earlier stages.

Is it normal for older cats to get skinny?

Yes, older cats often lose some of their muscle mass. But if you notice weight loss and increased thirst with it, then a vet should be checking it out.

References

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  Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2013 Nov;43(6):1231–1236.
  [PubMed]
• 2. Nelson RW, Reusch CE. Animal models of diabetes mellitus.
  Pancreas. 2014 Mar;43(3):319–323.
  [PubMed]
• 3. Reichler IM, Patterson JS. Diagnosis and management of feline hyperthyroidism.
  Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2013 Sep;43(5):1001–1019.
  [PubMed]
• 4. Ling GV, Norris CR. Urinary tract infections in cats: etiology and diagnosis.
  Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2011 Jul;41(4):755–764.
  [PubMed]
• 5. Center SA. Diagnostic evaluation of liver disease in cats.
  Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2005 May;35(3):547–576.
  [PubMed]