Veterinarians in North Charleston, SC Providing Compassionate Pet Care

Cats are known for their independence and low-maintenance lifestyles, but one thing they often don’t do well on their own is stay hydrated. Whether your cat loves dry food or prefers lounging in the sun over visiting the water bowl, understanding their daily water intake can help you support their long-term health. So, how much water should a cat drink a day, and why does it matter? This guide breaks down how hydration works in cats, what affects their water needs, signs of dehydration, and when to talk to your veterinarian. Let’s explore everything you need to know about supporting your cat’s hydration.     How Much Water Should a Cat Drink a Day? Cats should generally drink about 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight each day. That means a 10-pound cat typically needs around 7 to 9 ounces of water daily. However, many factors like diet, age, activity level, and even the weather can influence how much water your cat actually needs. For example, cats who eat dry food often need to drink more because dry kibble contains very little moisture. On the other hand, cats who eat canned food may drink less because canned diets are made up of about 70–80% water. The question “How much water should a cat drink a day?” doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It’s more of a guideline to help you watch for patterns and make sure your cat isn’t becoming dehydrated or overhydrated, both of which can signal underlying health concerns. Why Hydration Matters for Your Cat’s Health Water plays a vital role in every system of your cat’s body. From digestion and circulation to organ function and temperature regulation, hydration supports key physiological processes. When your cat doesn’t get enough water, problems can arise quickly. Internal Functions Supported by Water Kidney function: Proper hydration helps flush waste through the kidneys and supports urinary health. Digestion: Water assists in moving food through the digestive tract and absorbing nutrients. Joint and muscle function: Water keeps tissues flexible and helps cushion joints. Temperature regulation: Cats don’t sweat like humans do. Water helps maintain their internal temperature. Even mild dehydration can cause discomfort and health complications over time. Chronic dehydration can lead to urinary tract infections or crystals, especially in cats that eat only dry food. That’s why understanding how much water a cat should drink a day is so important for preventive care. What Affects a Cat’s Daily Water Needs? Not every cat needs to drink the same amount of water. Several lifestyle and physiological factors can change your cat’s hydration requirements. Diet Type Dry Food: Contains around 10% moisture. Cats on dry diets need to drink significantly more water to stay hydrated. Canned Food: Contains up to 80% moisture, reducing the need for additional water. Raw or Fresh Food: Often falls between canned and dry in terms of moisture content. Age and Life Stage Kittens and senior cats are more vulnerable to dehydration. Older cats, especially those with kidney issues, may need extra water support. Nursing cats need more hydration to support milk production. Activity Level and Environment Active indoor cats and outdoor cats in warm climates lose water faster through panting or increased metabolism. Heating and air conditioning systems can reduce humidity and increase water needs. If you’re ever unsure about your cat’s specific needs, your veterinarian at Northwoods Veterinary Clinic in North Charleston can help assess hydration in the context of your cat’s overall health. Call us at (843) 553-0441 or schedule an appointment online to speak with our team. Signs Your Cat May Not Be Drinking Enough Water Cats tend to hide discomfort well, so dehydration can develop quietly. Knowing the signs can help you catch an issue early and take action. Common Symptoms of Dehydration Dry gums or sticky saliva Sunken eyes Lethargy or weakness Loss of appetite Panting Skin tenting (skin doesn’t quickly return to normal after gently pulling it up) Cats who drink too little water may also have concentrated urine or trouble using the litter box. If you notice these signs, contact your vet to determine the next step. While these signs might not always point to a serious problem, they’re worth evaluating. How to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water Some cats are naturally finicky drinkers. Fortunately, there are several ways to make water more appealing to them. Try a Water Fountain: Many cats prefer moving water. Pet water fountains mimic the flow of a stream and may encourage cats to drink more often. Offer Multiple Water Stations: Place water bowls in different rooms, especially in multi-level homes. Accessibility increases the chances your cat will drink throughout the day. Use the Right Type of Bowl: Avoid plastic bowls, which can hold onto odors and bacteria. Stainless steel and ceramic bowls tend to be more appealing and easier to clean. Add Water to Food: Mixing water into dry kibble or adding extra liquid to canned food boosts hydration without requiring extra effort from your cat. Can Cats Drink Too Much Water? While drinking too little water can be a concern, so can drinking more than usual. Excessive thirst, also known as polydipsia, can indicate an underlying health condition. Conditions Associated with Excessive Thirst Kidney disease Diabetes Hyperthyroidism Urinary tract infections If you notice your cat drinking and urinating more than usual, it’s time for a veterinary evaluation. These symptoms don’t always mean something serious, but they do warrant attention. Northwoods Veterinary Clinic is here to help if you observe any changes in your cat’s drinking habits. When to Talk to Your Veterinarian About Water Intake Tracking how much water your cat drinks each day may not be easy, but observing their habits and noting any changes is key. If you’re frequently wondering, “How much water should a cat drink a day?”, especially in relation to your own pet, it’s worth reaching out to your veterinarian. We encourage you to schedule an appointment if you observe: A noticeable drop in

When your dog suddenly starts hacking or gagging like something is caught in their throat, it can be startling and it’s not always clear what’s causing it. The sound might be sharp and repetitive, or it could come with gagging, licking of the lips, or even retching. Many pet owners immediately worry their dog is choking, but this kind of coughing doesn’t always mean there’s a foreign object involved. If you’ve found yourself noticing this behavior, this blog is here to help you understand what could be going on and when it’s time to call your vet. Read on to learn about the most common causes, what signs to look for, and how Northwoods Veterinary Clinic in North Charleston, SC can help.     What This Type of Cough Could Sound Like When a pet owner says, “My dog is coughing like something is stuck in his throat,” they’re usually describing a very specific sound. It’s not a light or airy cough, it’s more forceful, like a honk or a deep, throaty gag. Some dogs will hunch their backs or extend their necks as they try to clear whatever they think is in their throat. Others may cough so hard they appear to retch or vomit. This can look alarming, but the cause isn’t always serious. The key is identifying what the cough sounds like and how often it happens. A wet cough sounds moist and may be accompanied by mucus. A dry, honking cough could point to something else entirely. Observing the timing such as during or after activity, after drinking water, or while at rest can offer clues your vet will find useful. What Causes a Cough That Sounds Like Choking? Many pet owners assume that if their dog is coughing like this, something is physically stuck. But in most cases, the cause is internal rather than an actual blockage. Below are the most frequent reasons behind this type of cough. Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease) Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads quickly among dogs in close quarters like boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons. If your dog’s cough sounds like a deep, dry honk and they recently interacted with other dogs, kennel cough could be the cause. The infection is often mild but can lead to more serious issues, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or those with weakened immune systems. While the name might suggest it only happens in kennels, dogs can pick up the virus anywhere. A telltale sign is a persistent cough that seems like your dog is trying to clear their throat without any success. Tracheal Collapse This condition is common in smaller breeds like Yorkies, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas. The cartilage rings of the trachea (windpipe) weaken over time, making it more prone to collapsing, especially during excitement or pressure on the neck. If your dog has a goose-honk sounding cough when they’re pulling on the leash or after eating or drinking, tracheal collapse may be the cause. It’s a chronic condition that requires management through lifestyle changes and veterinary care. Diagnosing it typically involves imaging like X-rays or fluoroscopy. Allergies and Environmental Irritants Seasonal allergies, dust, smoke, mold, or even strong perfumes can cause irritation in your dog’s airway. Environmental allergies can cause persistent coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. If you’ve noticed these signs during specific times of the year or after cleaning, spraying air fresheners, or lighting candles, airborne allergens may be irritating your dog’s airway. Laryngeal Paralysis Laryngeal paralysis is a condition where the muscles that open and close the larynx (voice box) don’t function properly, leading to airway obstruction. This typically affects older, larger breeds like Labradors. A dog with laryngeal paralysis might cough, gag, or make loud breathing sounds, especially during exercise or when they get excited. The condition is progressive, so early diagnosis and management are important to protect their quality of life. Less Common But Serious Causes of Throat-Like Coughing While most dogs that cough like something is stuck in their throat are dealing with relatively minor conditions, some causes are more serious. Being aware of these possibilities can help you act quickly if needed. Heart Disease Some forms of heart disease, especially in small breeds, can lead to a buildup of fluid in the lungs or pressure on the airways. This can trigger a cough that mimics choking or gagging. If your dog’s coughing seems worse at night or after lying down, and they show signs of fatigue or trouble breathing during activity, it’s time to talk with your veterinarian about potential cardiac issues. Foreign Body or Obstruction Although it’s rare compared to other causes, dogs can sometimes inhale or swallow small objects that partially block the airway or get lodged in the throat. If your dog’s cough started suddenly and is accompanied by pawing at the mouth, excessive drooling, or distress, seek veterinary attention right away. A partially obstructed airway is an emergency. Canine Influenza or Pneumonia If your dog is coughing frequently, has nasal discharge, fever, or lethargy, a respiratory infection like canine influenza or pneumonia could be involved. These illnesses often produce more than just a throat-like cough. Your dog will generally seem unwell overall. Unlike kennel cough, these infections may require more aggressive treatment. A proper diagnosis often involves chest X-rays and other diagnostics performed by your veterinarian. What to Watch for and When to Call Your Vet It’s not always easy to know whether a cough is something you can monitor or something that needs immediate attention. If you find yourself frequently thinking, “My dog is coughing like something is stuck in his throat,” and the coughing persists beyond a few hours or occurs multiple times a day, it’s best to contact Northwoods Veterinary Clinic. Other signs that should prompt a veterinary appointment include: Labored or noisy breathing Coughing that worsens at night Loss of appetite Lethargy or weakness Discharge from the nose or eyes Gagging or retching with nothing coming up Even if the

Keeping your dog’s ears clean is a key part of their overall care routine—but many pet owners feel uncertain about how to do it properly. If you’ve ever wondered how to clean dog ears without causing discomfort or risking injury, you’re not alone. Dirty ears can lead to odor, discomfort, and potentially more serious problems. That’s why learning how to recognize when a cleaning is needed and how to approach it safely is so important. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to look for, what to avoid, and when it’s time to involve a veterinary professional. If you’re local to North Charleston, SC, and need help with your dog’s ear care, Northwoods Veterinary Clinic is here for you. Call us at (843) 553-0441 or schedule an appointment online.     Why Ear Care Matters for Dogs Routine ear care supports your dog’s comfort and helps reduce the risk of irritation and infection. Dog ears, especially in breeds with floppy or hairy ears, can trap moisture, dirt, and debris. When these substances build up, they can create an environment where yeast and bacteria thrive. That’s where regular ear cleaning comes in. More Than Just Removing Dirt Ear cleaning isn’t only about removing visible dirt. It also gives you the chance to check for early signs of infection or discomfort. If you clean your dog’s ears regularly, you’re more likely to catch redness, swelling, or discharge early on. Dogs prone to allergies, frequent swimming, or who have long, floppy ears are especially vulnerable to ear issues. For these dogs, ear cleaning might be needed more often than others. Every Dog Has Different Needs Every dog is different, and so is their need for ear care. Some dogs go months without any buildup, while others need more frequent attention. By understanding your dog’s specific needs and staying proactive, you can help them avoid preventable ear problems. How to Tell If Your Dog’s Ears Need Cleaning Before learning how to clean dog ears, it’s helpful to know when a cleaning is actually necessary. Over-cleaning can be just as problematic as neglect, potentially drying out the ear canal or causing irritation. Look for the following signs that it may be time to clean your dog’s ears: A mild odor coming from the ears Visible dirt or wax in the outer ear Head shaking or frequent scratching around the ears A slight darkening of the ear interior due to buildup Avoid cleaning if you see signs of infection, such as intense redness, swelling, discharge, or if your dog pulls away in pain when you touch their ears. In those cases, it’s best to reach out to our team at Northwoods Veterinary Clinic. Routine visual checks are key. If your dog has just returned from a swim or rolled in something questionable, give their ears a once-over to determine whether a cleaning is necessary. For dogs with floppy ears, gently lifting the flap during regular grooming sessions can help you keep tabs on their ear health. What You’ll Need Before Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears Being prepared can make the process go more smoothly and help your dog feel more at ease. Here’s what you’ll need: A dog-specific ear cleaning solution (never use hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or alcohol) Cotton balls or gauze (never Q-tips) A towel to protect your floor or lap Treats for positive reinforcement Optional: gloves, if you prefer not to get your hands messy Why Use a Dog-Specific Cleaner? The ear canal is sensitive, and many substances found in household products can cause irritation. Dog-safe ear cleaners are formulated to break down wax, dry excess moisture, and rinse away debris without harming the ear tissue. Your veterinarian can recommend a solution that’s best for your pet’s specific needs. Having the right tools on hand also reduces stress for both you and your dog. Keeping things calm and positive helps your dog feel more comfortable during future cleanings. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Dog Ears Safely Now that you’ve gathered your supplies, let’s walk through how to clean dog ears step by step. Take your time, be gentle, and try to make the experience as positive as possible for your pet. Step 1: Create a Calm Environment Choose a quiet space in your home where your dog feels relaxed. Avoid doing this when your dog is overly excited or stressed. Have a towel laid out and treats nearby. If your dog is small, placing them on a counter or table covered with a non-slip mat can help. Step 2: Inspect the Ears Gently lift your dog’s ear flap and take a look inside. The ear should be pale pink and free of strong odor, heavy discharge, or excessive wax. If anything seems off, contact your veterinarian before moving forward. Step 3: Apply the Cleaner Hold the ear flap upright and gently fill the ear canal with the cleaner (follow product instructions). Be careful not to let the bottle tip touch your dog’s ear. Once the solution is inside, gently massage the base of the ear for about 20-30 seconds. You’ll likely hear a squishing sound. This is normal and means the cleaner is moving around to break up debris. Step 4: Let Them Shake After massaging, allow your dog to shake their head. This helps expel loosened debris from the ear canal. Step 5: Wipe the Ear Use a cotton ball or gauze pad to wipe away debris from the outer part of the ear canal and inner flap. Do not insert anything deep into the ear canal, especially cotton swabs, as this can cause injury or push debris further inside. Repeat the process on the other ear, then praise your dog and reward them with a treat. Positive reinforcement will make future cleanings easier. What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears Even when you know how to clean dog ears, mistakes can happen. Avoiding common missteps can help prevent discomfort or injury. Avoid Q-Tips Never use Q-tips inside your dog’s ear canal.