Fluid replacement for cats

Is your cat not drinking enough? Discover how to recognise dehydration and prepare a simple fluid replacement to keep your cat healthy and hydrated.

Important to know

Please note that it’s wise to contact your vet before you start rehydrating your cat yourself. If your cat needs fluid replacement instead of regular water, it could be so unwell that it needs to be on a drip directly into the blood.

A cat needs approximately 0.5 decilitres of liquid per kilogram per day. But a dehydrated cat needs more. Sometimes up to twice as much water. In case of diarrhoea or vomiting, a cat loses fluid quickly and may need extra water or sometimes fluid replacement.

A cat that is vomiting or has diarrhoea can become dehydrated. In case of dehydration, the cat may be in need of fluid replacement. Here we teach you how to make your own fluid replacement at home and when you need to contact a vet.

Recognising the causes of dehydration

Dehydration can result from more than just vomiting or diarrhoea. Conditions such as kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or heatstroke can also cause fluid loss. Cats that eat primarily dry food may also struggle to stay hydrated, especially in warm weather. Identifying the underlying cause of dehydration is critical, as addressing the root issue can prevent further health problems. Always monitor your cat’s behaviour and consult your vet if you notice prolonged changes in their eating, drinking, or toilet habits.

How to make fluid replacement for your cat

Creating a simple fluid replacement at home can help rehydrate your cat until you can seek veterinary advice. You’ll need just a few basic ingredients to prepare a homemade fluid replacement for your cat:

1 litre of water
1 tablespoon of dextrose (a type of sugar for quick energy)
1 teaspoon of salt

Mix water, dextrose and salt. Boil the water so that the liquid substitute is mixed well. Be sure to let the replacement cool down properly before giving it to your cat. The replacement must be stored in a refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. after this, you need to make a new batch.

How to give your cat fluid replacement

Measure the fluid carefully to avoid giving your cat too much at once, as excessive or rapid intake can cause vomiting. If your cat refuses to drink water, try offering a mild, unsalted broth to encourage hydration. If they still won’t drink on their own, you may need to use a spoon or syringe to gently administer the liquid. Aim for the corner of their mouth to make the process easier and more comfortable for your cat.

Signs of recovery in dehydrated cats

Knowing when your cat is improving is just as important as recognising dehydration. Signs of recovery include increased energy levels, normal urination, and skin elasticity returning to normal. Your cat should also start eating and drinking without assistance. Continue monitoring them closely for a few days to ensure the issue does not return. If symptoms recur or new ones develop, consult your vet immediately.

When should I seek help?

In case of worsening general condition
If your cat swallowed a foreign object
If your cat vomits water despite having only received small amounts of water at a time
If the vomiting or diarrhoea is bloody or black
If the cat continues to vomit/have diarrhoea despite a soft diet
If problems with vomiting or diarrhoea are recurrent

Veterinary fluid replacement methods for cats

A vet will provide fluid replacement for cats when dehydration becomes severe or when home treatment isn’t enough. They can administer fluids through various methods depending on the cat’s condition:

Subcutaneous (SubQ) fluids: This involves injecting fluids under the skin, usually in the neck area. It’s commonly used for mild to moderate dehydration, as it allows fluids to be absorbed gradually.
Intravenous (IV) fluids: For more severe dehydration, especially when the cat is very weak or unable to drink, a vet may administer fluids directly into the bloodstream through an IV catheter. This method is faster and more effective for restoring hydration quickly.
Intraosseous fluids: In some cases, if an IV is not possible, fluids may be delivered directly into the bone marrow, which is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Vets will choose the method based on the severity of dehydration and the cat’s overall health, ensuring the best approach for recovery.

How much does fluid replacement treatment cost?

The cost of vet-administered fluid replacement for cats can vary based on the method used and the severity of the dehydration. Prices may increase if additional treatments, such as blood tests or hospitalisation, are needed. For an accurate estimate, it's best to consult your vet based on your cat's condition and treatment requirements.

Cat insurance can help cover the cost of some treatments like fluid replacement and hospitalisation, easing the financial burden of unexpected vet bills.

Special considerations for kittens

Kittens are especially vulnerable to dehydration due to their small size and developing immune systems. Even a short bout of vomiting or diarrhoea can lead to severe fluid loss. Always monitor kittens closely for signs of dehydration, such as lethargy, dry gums, or poor skin elasticity. When administering fluid replacement, use a syringe to provide small, gentle amounts at regular intervals. Ensure their environment is warm, as cold stress can worsen their condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek veterinary help immediately, as kittens can deteriorate quickly without proper care.

Caring for older cats

Older cats are more prone to dehydration due to age-related changes in their kidneys and overall health. Conditions like chronic kidney disease or diabetes can increase their risk. Ensure your senior cat has constant access to fresh water and encourage hydration through wet food or water-rich treats. Monitor for signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes or increased lethargy, and act quickly if they become unwell.

Older cats may also have difficulty drinking due to dental issues, so consider offering softer foods or broth to help maintain hydration. Always consult your vet for advice tailored to your senior cat's specific needs.

Preventing dehydration in cats

Preventing dehydration starts with encouraging regular water intake. Ensure your cat has constant access to clean, fresh water. Cats can be fussy, so try different methods to increase their water consumption:

Multiple water sources: Place bowls in various locations to make it easy for your cat to drink.
Fountains: Many cats prefer moving water. A pet fountain can encourage them to drink more.
Wet food: Incorporate high-moisture wet food into your cat’s diet to boost hydration.
Ice cubes: Add ice cubes to your cat’s water for a fun and refreshing twist.

Long-term hydration tips

Preventing dehydration is a long-term commitment to your cat’s health. Ensure their water bowls are clean and placed in quiet, accessible areas. If your cat doesn’t drink much, experiment with water fountains or offer flavoured, pet-safe broths to make drinking more appealing. Cats are creatures of habit, so creating a consistent hydration routine can help them stay healthy. Keep an eye on their fluid intake, especially during hot weather or if they are unwell, to catch any issues early.

As an Agria Pet Insurance customer, you have free access to veterinary advice 24/7. Download the Agria Vet App to speak to a professional.

About the Author

Amanda Andersson is a content writer Agria Djurförsäkring in Sweden, specialising in animal welfare. Previous experience includes Volvo on Demand, and 60plusbanken in Sweden.