Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Yosry
Updated on 08/21/2024
Reading time 5 min.
Overview
Severity: Medium
Life stage: All
A sick cat is hovering over a water bowl and desperately trying to drink. The poor kitty is very thirsty and has been trying his most challenging to nurse, but he can’t quite reach the water. You can help with this by holding him still until he’s done drinking and then letting him go so that he can find his way to the bathroom. Is your cat sick? He’s hovering over a water bowl, licking it. What could be wrong?
Reasons behind a sick cat hovering over water bowl
If you have a sick cat hovering over a water bowl, it can be due to one of the following reasons:
In thirst for water
Cats are desert animals. They have been bred for thousands of years to survive in the harsh climate where they live, so it’s no surprise that their bodies are not designed for drinking water.
Cats can die from drinking too much water! Their low thirst drive means they prefer not to drink at all than risk getting dehydrated quickly.
Many cats become sluggish and unresponsive when they haven’t had enough hydration in their bodies for several hours or days (or even weeks).
Ageing
If you’re looking for why your cat is drinking more water, there is one. As cats age, they tend to drink more than younger cats because of regular changes in their bodies and minds. They may develop kidney disease as they age and other health issues that make it difficult to drink enough water to stay hydrated.
In general, though, ageing isn’t a problem unless your pet has recurring problems with dehydration or other health conditions that affect his ability to control his thirst levels effectively when required.
Illness
A disease or illness that prevents her from drinking enough fluids regularly could cause her to become dehydrated, so much so that she would prefer something else entirely.
How much water is it normal for cats to drink?
Cats need a lot of water! Their bodies are between 10 and 15 percent water, compared to the human body’s 70 percent. That means if you have a cat, it will need more than one-third of its weight in ounces of water each day (for example, if your pet weighs 10 pounds). Suppose you have multiple cats in your house and get enough water from their food bowls. In that case, it’s easy enough to give them more when they aren’t eating as much food as usual because they’re sick or otherwise indisposed – but remember that this isn’t something you should do unless necessary because there could be consequences if you go overboard on how much hydration your friend gets through their diet alone (and maybe even some other things!).
Conclusion
In conclusion, a sick cat hovering over its water bowl may signify dehydration. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they need to drink water to stay healthy and live longer. Many people believe that cats don’t like the feeling of having water in their mouths, so they will hover over their bowls until they finish
Our Modern Vet JVC is located within 2 minute’s walk from Regina Tower. You can drive here from Al Sufouh via Abdullah Omran Taryam Street to Al Thowina Street and then to Hessa Street. Now, Crossing Lazuward N.E and Regina Tower, you will get to Modern Vet JVC.
You can also get a consult at other Modern Vet veterinary clinics.
Share this, choose your platform!
Writen by
Dr. Sarah Yosry
DVM
A product of a rich Australian/Egyptian heritage, Dr. Sarah Yosry stands as a testament to the union of diverse cultures and a shared love for animals…
Modern Vet, in partnership with Blue Sky Pet Relocation, proudly offers a comprehensive and personalized pet travel service tailored to the unique needs...
Modern Vet's Home Veterinary Service in Collaboration with VetLiveryAt Modern Vet, we continually strive for innovation, excellence, and utmost care...
We provide a complete evaluation of all organ functions during your pet’s visit to Modern Vet. We examine for the following conditions:
Dental...
A pet needs all the affection and attention you can provide. Health care is a significant component of their daily routine. Vaccinating them promptly is...
Like emergency hospitals for people, Modern Vet provides 24 hour emergency pet care, any day of the year, even on holidays. If you think to yourself that...
Your reliable partner in caring for your pet's health
At ModernVet, we understand the importance of your pet's health and wellbeing. Our clinic...
At ModernVet, we are proud to offer advanced ophthalmology services, dedicated to the eye health of your pets. Our state-of-the-art clinic is equipped...
Veterinary orthopaedics focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal problems in pets. Joints, soft tissue, bones, muscle, ligaments, and tendons are all...
DENTAL CARE FOR PETS
If you have a pet, it’s essential to know that they can have dental problems. Your dog or cat may need a checkup from their...
We at Modern Vet Hospital provide veterinary physiotherapy and rehabilitation services that are created to help your pet recover as quickly as possible...
Our pets are our life partners, and we want them to be happy and healthy. We know you don't have the time to spend on your pet. That's why we...
Ten thousand years ago when humans first began domesticating animals, they fell sick in detention and also due to the ailments of old age. In order to...
Feeding your pets high quality food gives them a chance at a longer and healthier life. Like humans, pets also require essential vitamins, minerals, and...
In Dubai, our unique Pet Taxi service is tailored exclusively for our furry friends, ensuring they travel directly from and to our clinics with ease and...
Skin-related issues are not limited to human beings and can plague animals too. Much like their owners, pets should also have regular visits to the...
The Modern Vet Hospital is the leading pet charity in Dubai, working closely with many animal welfare organizations to provide price concessions for TNR....
Veterinary neurology is the branch of medicine that studies and treats the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nervous system in pets. Epilepsy, Meningitis,...
ModernVet Clinic is renowned as the only cardiology-focused veterinary hospital in your region. When searching for a 'veterinary cardiologist near...
At ModernVet, we're committed to enhancing the wellbeing of your canine companions through our specialized dog spay and neuter services....
At ModernVet, we specialize in providing top-notch cat spaying and neutering services, ensuring the best care for your feline companions. Recognizing the...
Vaccination is the process of immunization, which enhances an animal's immune system and helps it fight diseases. Vaccines are made from killed or...
You must know the pros and cons of vaccinating your cat if you're a pet owner. While some cats can be healthy without vaccination, others may not...
The modern Vet Clinic is a full-service animal hospital that provides comprehensive veterinary care for dogs in Dubai. From preventative treatment and...
At Modern Vet, we solely provide veterinarian care, boarding, and grooming for cats. Modern veterinary clinics are committed to delivering superior care...
