Cats with kidney disease are especially vulnerable to dehydration. So, it is important to make sure that your cat with kidney disease has access to and is drinking enough water. There are many different ways in which your cat can get water: wet food, tap water, distilled water, etc. But is one a better choice than the others?
In this article, we’ll discuss the hydration needs of cats with kidney disease, compare the different kinds of water your cat can drink, and provide some tips on how to encourage your cat to drink more water.
Why Do Cats with Kidney Disease Need More Water?
Water is essential for all cats, but cats with kidney disease need more water than most. This is because cats with kidney disease do not have fully functional kidneys.
The responsibility of the kidney is to concentrate urine and filter waste. However, since the kidneys of cats with kidney disease are not performing how they should be, they don’t concentrate the urine properly.
This leads to cats with kidney disease urinating much more and more often than cats without it. So, cats will kidney disease will need to drink more water than other cats to make up for the liquids they are losing.
Best Water for Cats with Kidney Disease
The best water for cats with kidney disease is water with electrolyte and vitamin supplements. It helps hydrate your cat and provides vital nutrients.
The two best water supplements for cats with kidney disease are Virbac Rebound and Pet-A-Lyte.
Both of these water solutions provide your cat with electrolytes which help keep your cat hydrated. They also have vitamins B12 and potassium.
To learn more about nutritional requirements for your cat, check out my guide on the best food for cats with kidney disease.
They can also help increase the appetite in your cat. This is great if you want your cat with kidney disease to gain weight.
Does the Kind of Water Matter?
You may be wondering what kind of water is best for your cat. There are many options out there, some of which claim to be healthier and better than others. However, the truth is, water is water.
As long as your cat is getting clean water, they are getting the hydration that they need. One way of getting your cat hydration is through their food. Canned food has more moisture than dry food, so it is recommended.
Make sure your cat always has access to clean water. Cats with advanced forms of kidney disease may also receive fluids directly through subcutaneous fluid administration. This process involves administering fluid underneath the skin so it can be absorbed.
If your cat is still dehydrated even with wet food and access to clean water at all times, visit your veterinarian to get a consultation on whether fluid administration is necessary.
How to help your cat with kidney disease stay hydrated?
You should try to encourage your cat to drink more water. There are lots of tips out there on how to increase your cat’s hydration, and here are a few of the best ones.
Place multiple water bowls around your home to provide your cat with multiple sources of hydration. Try freezing ice cubes of tuna water or chicken broth to add to your cat’s water. If your cat doesn’t seem to like drinking out of a bowl, consider getting a water fountain.
Moving water can be more stimulating and inviting to cats than still water. It is definitely worth a shot. It may seem simple, but a stream of water rather than standing water can make all the difference to your cat. If you are still noticing that your cat is dehydrated, visit your veterinarian to learn about your options.
Conclusion
Cats with kidney disease get dehydrated much easier than cats without, so it is important to provide your cat with plenty of sources of water. As long as the water that you are providing your cat with is clean, it doesn’t matter what kind of water it is.
Tap water is perfectly fine. If your cat is struggling to stay hydrated, try placing multiple bowls around the house or investing in a water fountain. If you cannot keep your cat hydrated, take it to your veterinarian. They can provide you with more specific advice and also determine whether or not your cat needs fluids provided through other means.
All in all, it is important to make sure that your cat with kidney disease is comfortable and hydrated. This can take some extra effort and encouragement, but it is worth it to make sure your cat is as happy and healthy as possible.
