Condition11 connections · 2 sources
Dehydration
Dehydration is excessive water loss (typically from vomiting/diarrhea) or inadequate water intake. It causes lethargy and can damage kidneys and other organs if untreated.
Key Facts
- Most common mistake: encouraging food and water while pet is still vomiting
- Assessment: dry gums, thick ropey saliva, sunken eyes, slow skin turgor
- Skin turgor test: pull skin into a tent and release; slow return indicates dehydration
- Mild dehydration: give small amounts of water (1 tsp for cats, up to 1/4 cup for large dogs)
- Moderate to severe dehydration requires veterinary IV fluid therapy
- Very young, very old, and debilitated animals are most susceptible
- Skin turgor test is affected by age, weight loss, and skin condition
- Species: dogs and cats
Connections (11)
Related Conditions
Bacterial DiarrheaCondition
— life-threatening in young animals
Chronic Kidney DiseaseCondition
Both a cause and consequence of dehydration
GastroenteritisCondition
Rapid consequence of ongoing vomiting and diarrhea
Heat StrokeCondition
Dehydration worsens heat-related illness
HypothermiaCondition
Often accompanies hypothermia
ShockCondition
Severe dehydration can lead to shock
Urinary ObstructionCondition
Inability to urinate leads to toxic buildup