DRINKING LESS WATER THAN NORMAL (HYPO-DIPSIA)
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Decreased thirst can indicate kidney disease, liver disease, electrolyte imbalance, or Addison’s disease—especially in dehydrated pets.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
• Cool weather
• Reduced activity
• Diet change (more moisture)
MEDICAL
• Addison’s
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Endocrine shock states
• Nausea
EMERGENCY
• Severe dehydration
• Collapse
• Vomiting with no water intake
RED FLAGS
• Dry gums
• Lethargy
• Not urinating
• Vomiting + low thirst
• If unsure, treat as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE
• Offer broth
• Add water to food
These do not replace urgent care.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Electrolytes
• Kidney/liver values
• Blood pressure
• Cortisol
• Hydration status
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Addison’s
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Nausea
• Electrolyte imbalance
RISK FACTORS
• Senior pets
• Pets with chronic endocrine disease
WHEN TO SCHEDULE
• Immediate: vomiting + low thirst
• 24 hrs: persistent low intake
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Hydration is essential to kidney and metabolic longevity; chronic low thirst accelerates decline
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Recommended for all senior pets showing hydration changes.