Kitten Ailments
Common Kitten Ailments
Other Kitten Ailments
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Dehydration
Dehydration occurs whenever the body’s output of water exceeds its intake. Usually you cannot detect dehydration until the water deficit is at 4% of body weight. Kittens are at considerably more risk because of their small body size and limited ability to conserve water.
The best way to check for dehydration is by testing the elasticity of the skin. Pick up a fold of skin along the middle of the cat’s back and let it drop. In a well-hydrated, normally fleshed cat the skin will immediately spring back into place. In a moderately dehydrated cat skin will move into place slowly.
In cases of severe dehydration the skin may form a tent that remains in the skin.
Other signs of dehydration are darker urine color, lethargy, sunken eyes, and a dry feel to the mouth.
Mild dehydration can be prevented and/or corrected by administering water (or nutralight for babies) orally by syringe as long as they are swallowing.
If they are not swallowing, fluids may need to be given subcutaneously (under the skin). Consult with your veterinarian.
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