Feline Distemper Cats Start Drinking Water Excessively and Refuse to Eat

Cats with feline distemper start drinking excessive amounts of water and refuse to eat, which may be an indication of their condition improving. Their mental state and appetite begin to recover, and owners can prepare their favorite foods, choosing ones that are easy to chew and digest. However, they should not be complacent, as the treatment drugs must not be stopped. In addition, increased body temperature may also be a reason why cats drink excessive water, and owners can measure their cats' body temperature and explain the situation to the veterinarian.

The main symptoms of feline distemper are high fever (over 40℃), frequent vomiting, diarrhea, and severe leukopenia. In the course of the disease, cats who do not eat or drink can lead to severe self-consumption and rapid muscle loss. Many cats die due to malnutrition and dehydration, so when cats recover during treatment and their appetite returns, it is a positive sign. Cats drinking excessive water mean they are severely dehydrated, and owners should supplement their cats with glucose water to replenish energy and moisture, and prepare their favorite foods, preferably ones that are easy to chew and digest.

However, just because cats start drinking excessive water does not mean they have fully recovered. The treatment plan still needs to be continued, including antibiotics, drugs to inhibit virus proliferation, and gastrointestinal maintenance drugs. Owners can also check their cats' white blood cell levels to see if they have risen. If the white blood cells have increased, there is a good chance that the cats will recover.

In addition, a sharp increase in body temperature may also cause thirst in cats. Therefore, owners should check their cats' body temperature and consult a veterinarian if the temperature is too high. Adjust the treatment plan as needed.