Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia)
Expert diagnosis for pets drinking too much water in Macau.
Common Causes
- Diabetes mellitus — high blood sugar drives thirst
- Kidney disease — impaired urine concentration
- Liver disease
- Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
- Hyperthyroidism — especially in cats
- Urinary tract infection
- Certain medications — steroids, diuretics
- Pyometra — uterine infection in unspayed females
Warning Signs
Drinking more than usual
Frequent urination or accidents
Weight loss despite good appetite
Lethargy or depression
Dull coat or poor condition
Vomiting or diarrhea
Home Monitoring
- Measure water intake over 24 hours (normal: ~50-70 ml/kg/day)
- Monitor urine frequency and volume
- Note any changes in appetite or weight
- Check for other symptoms (vomiting, lethargy)
- Do not restrict water without veterinary advice
When to See a Vet Immediately
- ! Sudden dramatic increase in thirst
- ! Accompanied by weight loss
- ! Lethargy or collapse
- ! Unspayed female with increased thirst
- ! Sweet or fruity breath (possible diabetes)
Diagnostic Services at Royal Veterinary Center
- Complete blood count and biochemistry
- Urinalysis and urine culture
- Blood glucose monitoring and fructosamine
- Thyroid testing (T4, free T4)
- Abdominal ultrasound
- ACTH stimulation test for Cushing's