Does Fido Have a Drinking Problem?
by R.H. Henderson DVM: Eastside Animal Health Center

One of the most common alerts to disease in our pets is an increase in the amount of water they drink. While this is an easy sign to notice, it is just as easy to over look.

While there are other hints and signals that your pet may be suffering from a serious disorder, ingesting large amounts of water is a key sign that something could be wrong. This acute increase in their water intake is usually accompanied by an increase in urine output. This phenomenon is referred to as Polyuria and Polydipsia or PU/PD. Typically, with this condition, the first sign that a pet owner will notice is the large amount of water intake. Of course, when the summer heat takes its toll, an increase in your pets water consumption is normal and necessary. However, this type of increase in water consumption is often not matched by an increase in urine output. PU/PD can affect both cats and dogs.

It is important to take note and determine the difference between voiding large quantity of urine (Polyuria) verses voiding small quantities of urine frequently.

Conditions that can cause PU/PD include, but are not limited to, renal failure, hyperadrenocorticism and diabetes. In cats, it is common for PU/PD to occur in conjunction with hyperthyroidism. While the above mentioned list is abbreviated, these represent the most common and serious conditions associated with these clinical signs.

All the conditions listed above are serious and need to be addressed.  There are other less common diseases that will manifest themselves as PU/PD. Often, when the condition is diagnosed early, it can be managed. So make a note to monitor your pets fluid intake and note any changes.  If you suspect that your pet might be demonstrating signs of PU/PD, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to verify PU/PD and suggest tests to track its cause.

Pet Health Tips and information provided by:
Eastside Animal Health Center
9600 Rogers Ave
Fort Smith, AR 72903
479-452-5700
R.H. Henderson DVM
L.M. Lynch DVM
L.C. France DVM

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