Medical professionals take note of changes in water consumption as a common symptom that can be worrying when a dog has aged. Changes in metabolism with age, along with a host of different medical conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or liver disorders would play a part in constant water consumption. Additionally, shifts in diet can also increase thirst, particularly in dry and sodium-heavy food. Lastly, steroids and diuretics are known to increase thirst due to their side effects.
Why does my senior dog drink water constantly?
Some are well aware of the importance of water for sustenance, however, being overly zealous with hydration can lead to a host of health issues. It is normal for dogs to seek water during physical activity, but the older a dog gets, the more frequently drinking water becomes a necessity, more than routine thirst. While there are some slight differences between breeds, pet owners need to be highly observant. When Temperature increases or a dog’s activity levels rise, it usually results in higher water intake.
Common Health Issues That Cause Excessive Thirst in Older Dogs
Increased drinking of water can be caused by several medical factors for elderly dogs. Some common ones are given below:
Kidney Disease
The kidneys filter waste and balance fluids in the bloodstream. As dogs age, their kidneys begin to lose their efficiency over time, which can result in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Only a few symptoms of kidney failure dogs exhibit are increased thirst and the need to urinate frequently.
Diabetes Mellitus
It happens when the body can’t control its glucose levels. An unstable sugar level makes the body expel unwanted glucose through frequent urination and thirst. Some other signs that a diabetic dog has include, increased appetite coupled with excess fatigue and unusual weight loss.
Liver Disease
Abnormal liver function leads to a multitude of other health diseases which results in excessive thirst. In more severe scenarios, dogs may also display signs of yellowing of the eyes or vomit. A decrease in appetite leading to increased nutrient malfunction, paired with poor toxin removal from the organ sees a severe drop in the bones’ overall health.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
It can make your dog increase its water intake. The body makes this effort to eliminate the harmful bacteria. Other symptoms may include, painful urination, litter box problems, and excessive urination.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Increased incidents of water intake are not alarming, but continuously noticing excessive thirst should be judged carefully. Reasons motivating a visit to the vet’s office include:
- Dramatic changes in water intake without clear contextual reasons.
- Regular urination including ‘leaks’ in the house.
- Unintentional weight changes without a clear reason – gain or loss.
- Listlessness, fatigue, or deficiency of strength.
- Nausea and diarrhea.
- Bloated belly or overzealous panting.
If the worrying signs mentioned earlier are spotted alongside increased thirst, it is best to get in contact with your vet as soon as possible.
How To Help Your Senior Dog Stay Healthy
As dogs get older, taking care of them becomes more important to keeping track of their changing requirements. Here are a few suggestions for these dogs:
Regular vet check-ups – Frequent visits can help minimize potential health issues by treating them at an early stage.
Proper diet – The right amount and proportion of every macro can aid in keeping the kidneys and liver functions at their very best.
Drinking Pattern – We must offer drip-free fresh clean water while closely monitoring the dog’s drinking pattern.
Follow prescribed treatments – If your pet is diagnosed, ensure strict discipline in medication and diet regimen.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Take care that your dog is neither under or over-exercised.
FAQs
Can stress cause my older dog to drink more water?
Yes, certain circumstances of stress and anxiety can increase thirst. Significant changes in the household, new animals, or being left alone frequently can cause these issues.
Should I control my dog’s water intake if he is drinking too much?
No, restricting water access can lead to bigger issues. Instead of cutting out access, it is better to identify the cause of excessive thirst and approach a veterinarian.
What must be done if he is drinking a lot and not eating?
Excessive drinking with little to no appetite can be an indicator of serious conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. It’s safer to consult a veterinarian in such scenarios.
Do certain dog breeds have a higher risk of excessive thirst?
Some breeds such as Poodles and Beagle and also Dachshunds are more susceptible to complications from diabetes or Cushing’s disease than others, hence, bringing forth increased thirst.
Can medications make my dog drink more water?
Yes. Other medications like steroids and diuretics can make drinking water an involuntary act. If you notice increased drinking behaviors after starting a new medication, make sure to discuss it with your veterinarian.
Conclusion
So when an old dog suddenly seems to drink a lot of water, what does it mean? To some extent, more drinking can be normal, but persistent or excessive drinking is more concerning. Although paying close attention to your dog’s behavior makes feeding and keeping them happy simple, this also helps ensure that your old dog remains healthy. If you notice anything that is not normal, early diagnosis is crucial in managing the dog’s health.
