EXCESSIVE URINATION (POLYURIA) IN DOGS/CATS
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Excessive urination—larger volumes, more frequent trips, accidents in trained pets— almost always indicates internal medical disease affecting kidneys, hormones, or electrolyte balance.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD OR SELF-LIMITING CAUSES
• Increased drinking from heat
• Anxiety or stress
• More water intake after exercise
• Puppy/kitten training lapses
• Aging bladder changes
MEDICAL CAUSES THAT NEED DIAGNOSIS
• Diabetes mellitus
• Chronic kidney disease
• Cushing’s disease
• Hyperthyroidism (cats)
• UTI
• Liver disease
• Pyometra
• Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium, high calcium)
EMERGENCY CAUSES
• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Acute kidney injury
• Pyometra (unspayed females)
• Blocked cat (male cats)
• Toxin ingestion (antifreeze)
RED FLAGS
• Straining to urinate
• Blood in urine
• Vomiting + excessive urination
• Unspayed female acting lethargic
• Sweet/fruity breath
• If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE
• Provide unlimited fresh water
• Remove salty treats
• Keep a urine diary
• Monitor appetite
These steps do not replace a veterinary exam if symptoms continue or worsen.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Bloodwork
• Urinalysis
• Urine concentration
• Kidney values
• Glucose levels
• Ultrasound if infection or organ disease is suspected
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Cushing’s
• Hyperthyroidism (cats)
• UTI
• Pyometra
BREEDS/AGES AT RISK
• Seniors
• Poodles, Terriers (Cushing’s)
• Older cats (hyperthyroid)
• Unspayed females (pyometra)
WHEN TO SCHEDULE
• Today: vomiting or lethargy
• 24 hrs: persistent signs
• Monitor: mild increase only
EXPECTED RECOVERY
• UTI: 3–7 days
• Diabetes: lifelong
• CKD: management
• Pyometra: emergency surgery
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Excess urination often marks declining kidney or endocrine health—both major lifespan limiters.
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Excellent time to map early metabolic disease and prevent decline.
FAQ
Can stress cause increased urination?
Mildly, yes.
Can I restrict water
Never
Could this be diabetes
Very possible.