What Are the Symptoms of Dehydration in Dogs/ Cats?

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Dehydration is the most common health issue among dogs and cats during the summer months. However, many owners still don’t take it seriously, frequently mistaken it as thirst. While thirst is one of the symptoms, dehydration is more than that. Veterinarians at Eastshore Vet, the best veterinary clinic in Madison, warn us that dehydrated animal doesn’t only lose water, but also essential electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, etc.  Dehydration often occurs when an animal doesn’t take enough water, or the loss of water exceeds the intake. Even though dehydration might appear as a result of underlying disease, not providing a dog or cat enough water on a hot sunny day is the second reason. Experts at Eastshore Vet give us the following list, explaining what are the symptoms of dehydration in dogs/ cats.-    Dry skin The best way to check the symptoms of dehydration is to lift a dog’s or cat’s skin. If it quickly turns back, then everything is fine. However, when dry skin resists the gravitational pull and stays up, you should act fast and treat dehydration.

-    Dry mouth You can also test your dog or cat on dehydration by simply pressing your finger against the animal’s gums. If gums return their healthy red color quickly, after you remove a finger, you don’t have to worry.

-    Sunken eyes Dry, dull eyes without shine usually point at dehydration.

-    Weight loss Often times, rapid weight loss is a sign of underlying disease and contributes to dehydration.

-    Panting While panting is a way of a pet, particularly a dog, to prevent overheating, excessive panting points at dehydration issue.

-    Depression and weakness Dehydrated animal struggles with a loss of energy, looks lethargic and lacks excitement.

Knowing the symptoms of dehydration is essential to prevent this potentially dangerous health issue, but more important is to be aware what kind of animal is your pet. Cats, small dogs, geriatric pets, ill pets, and very young animals are more prone to this ailment. If they show any of these symptoms, act fast and call your trusted vet clinic.

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BRANFORD LOCATION - OPERATIONS HAVE MOVED TO MADISON AS OF DEC 2022

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East Shore's Veterinary Hospital
50 N. Main St
Branford, CT 06405
Mon-Fri : Closed
Saturday : Closed
Sunday : Closed

MADISON LOCATION

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East Shore's Animal Wellness Center
29 Boston Post Road
Madison, CT 06443
Monday : 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday : 9.00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday : 9:00am - 5:00pm
Friday : 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sat-Sun : Closed
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