7 Clear Signs Your Cat Is Dehydrated (And How To Fix It Fast) - Petdirect
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7 Clear Signs Your Cat Is Dehydrated (And How To Fix It Fast)

7 Clear Signs Your Cat Is Dehydrated (And How To Fix It Fast)

If your cat is drinking less water than usual or just acting a bit off, you might be wondering: is my cat dehydrated? Dehydration in cats is something all pet parents in Aotearoa should take seriously, especially during summer months or when your cat isn't feeling their best. Recognising the signs early and knowing how to support hydration can make all the difference in your kitty’s health. Spoiler alert: We get pet — so let’s walk (or pounce) through what you need to know.

Why Hydration Matters For Cats

Unlike us humans, cats aren’t always great at drinking water. Because they evolved from desert-dwelling ancestors, many cats don’t feel the urge to drink until they're already a bit dehydrated. This can be particularly worrying for cats on a dry food diet or those who are unwell, as hydration plays a key role in kidney function, digestion, and overall wellbeing.

Some ways to boost hydration? Offer fresh water daily, add moisture-rich food or toppers, and consider investing in cat water fountains that keep water circulating and enticing.

1. Dry Gums And Tacky Mouth

One of the first signs of dehydration in cats is dryness in the mouth. Gums that are sticky or dry (rather than moist and pink) can be a red flag. You can gently press on your cat’s gum and watch how quickly the colour returns. If it’s slow, it could mean their body’s lacking fluids.

2. Sunken Eyes

Your cat’s eyes can say a lot without a single meow. When dehydrated, their eyes may look dull or sunken. This can be subtle at first but is often paired with general lethargy or discomfort.

3. Lethargy And Lack Of Energy

Is your usually bouncy cat snoozing more than usual or avoiding playtime? A drop in energy can signal several things, and dehydration is one of them. If your kitty seems especially low on pep, it may mean they need more fluids — pronto.

4. Poor Skin Elasticity

This at-home test is a helpful first step in checking for dehydration. Gently pinch the skin between your cat’s shoulder blades and release it. In a hydrated cat, the skin should snap back quickly. If it’s slow to return, that could be a sign of dehydration.

5. Decreased Appetite

If your cat’s turning their nose up at dinner, it’s worth watching closely. Dehydration can reduce appetite, and if they’re also not drinking, it becomes a bit of a vicious cycle. You can try tempt them with moisture-loaded options from our range of cat wet food or tasty food toppers to get things moving in the right direction.

6. Panting (Yes, Cats Can Pant Too)

While it's common for dogs, panting in cats is rare and often a call for concern. If your cat is panting and it's not from recent playtime or heat, they may be overheating and dehydrated — particularly important to watch for during New Zealand summers.

7. Reduced Urine Output Or Litter Box Visits

Is your cat using the litter tray less, or are their clumps smaller or darker? This might mean they’re not producing as much urine due to a lack of fluids. A litter box that makes clean-up easy can also help you monitor their toilet habits more closely.

How To Keep Your Cat Hydrated

  • Ensure access to fresh water at all times — some cats prefer multiple bowls in different places
  • Try a smart pet fountain for fresher, filtered water
  • Incorporate wet food into their daily meals
  • Use hydrating food toppers recommended for cats
  • Encourage water play with water-loving toys or ice cubes

If dehydration is severe or your cat refuses to eat or drink, it's time for a vet check. Dehydration can indicate underlying issues like kidney disease, especially in older cats. Always talk with your vet if you're unsure — you're your cat’s best advocate.

We Get Pet — And We’re Here To Help

Staying on top of your cat’s hydration doesn’t need to be a guessing game. Whether it’s upgrading to a smart water fountain or mixing in freeze-dried food with moisture, we’re here to support you with expert advice and essential products for every stage of the journey. Don’t forget, Petdirect offers Autodeliver so your cat never misses a mealtime, and Pet Perks rewards for every purr-chase too!

Explore more of our hydration support products and keep your kitty happy, healthy, and hydrated — because hydrated cats really do live their best nine lives.