Cats are known for their independent nature, which can make it difficult for owners to tell when something is wrong. However, one sign that your cat may be ill is if they are hovering over their water bowl. This behavior can indicate a variety of health issues, and it is important to understand the potential causes so that you can get your cat the help they need.
Symptoms to Look Out For
In addition to hovering over the water bowl, there are other symptoms that you should be on the lookout for if you suspect that your cat is ill. These can include:
- Loss of appetite: If your cat is not eating or drinking as much as usual, it could be a sign that they are not feeling well.
- Lethargy: Cats that are feeling ill will often become more sluggish and inactive than usual.
- Vomiting or diarrhea: These symptoms can be caused by a variety of health issues, including infections and gastrointestinal problems.
- Weight loss: If your cat is losing weight despite eating and drinking normally, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
- Increased thirst: If your cat is drinking more water than usual, it could be a sign that they are dehydrated or suffering from an underlying health condition.
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Causes of Sick Cat Hovering Over the Water Bowl
There are a variety of potential causes for a sick cat hovering over the water bowl. Some of the most common include:
- Dehydration: If your cat is not drinking enough water, it may become dehydrated. This can cause them to feel thirsty and hover over the water bowl.
- Kidney Disease: Kidney disease is a common condition in older cats and can cause increased thirst and drinking.
- Diabetes: Cats with diabetes may have increased thirst and may hover over the water bowl as a result.
- Hyperthyroidism: This condition, which is caused by an overactive thyroid gland, can cause increased thirst and drinking.
- Liver Disease: Cats with liver disease may have a decreased appetite and may hover over the water bowl due to increased thirst.
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Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect that your cat is ill, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and may recommend blood and urine tests to help determine the cause of your cat’s symptoms.
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your cat’s symptoms. In some cases, it may be as simple as providing your cat with more water or changing its diet. In other cases, medication or other treatments may be necessary.
Prevention
The best way to prevent your cat from becoming ill is to keep them in good health. This means providing them with a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and regular veterinary checkups. You should also make sure that your cat has access to fresh water at all times, and consider using a water fountain or other drinking device that encourages your cat to drink more.
It’s also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of illness in cats, so you can take action as soon as possible if you notice anything out of the ordinary. By being proactive about your cat’s health, you can help ensure that they live a long and happy life.
Why Does My Cat … Paw at Her Water Bowl?
Conclusion
A cat hovering over their water bowl can be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you notice this behavior in your cat, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Some of the most common causes of this behavior include dehydration, kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism and liver disease.
To ensure that your cat stays healthy, It is essential to ensure that your furry friends get a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and routine vet appointments. Additionally, you should make sure that your cat has access to fresh and clean water at all times and consider using a water fountain or other drinking device that encourages your cat to drink more.
It’s also important to note that cats can also hover over the water bowl due to behavioral issues, such as stress or anxiety. In such cases, it’s important to address the underlying issue, rather than focusing on the symptom.
If you suspect your cat is ill and showing signs of hovering over the water bowl, you must visit your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment. With prompt attention and appropriate care, most cats can recover from illnesses and continue to live long and healthy lives.
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