Understanding Dehydration in Pets

The Serious Nature of Dehydration

Exploring the severity of dehydration in pets and its potential causes:

• Initial Mild Symptoms: Dehydration often starts mildly due to vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and reduced fluid intake.
• Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like liver disease and kidney disease can lead to inadequate water absorption and utilization.
• Impact on Body: Dehydration can starve the body of fluids, causing discomfort and lethargy.

Recognizing Dehydration Signs

Identifying signs of dehydration in pets for early detection:

• Skin Elasticity: Check for a skin tent - delayed skin retraction when lifted indicates dehydration.
• Gum Appearance: Examine gums for dryness, stickiness, or tackiness as a possible dehydration indicator.
• Knowing the Norm: Familiarity with your pet's normal condition helps spot abnormalities.

Addressing Dehydration

Steps to take when dealing with pet dehydration:

• Encourage Fluid Intake: If your pet is still well, offer more water or add water to their food.
• Consulting a Vet: Seek veterinary assistance promptly if your pet is off their food or worsening.
• Veterinary Solutions: Vets may administer intravenous or subcutaneous fluids and supplement with electrolytes to correct dehydration.