Sensible fluid losses

Sensible fluid losses are those that can be easily detected and measured. Sensible losses can occur through the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. The loss of fluid through the GI tract is negligible in healthy dogs and cats but can be substantial through vomiting or diarrhea. In the adult, healthy dog or cat, sensible loss is through urine and is about 12-20 ml/lb/day. Loss of water through the urinary and GI tracts is usually accompanied by loss of electrolytes (in both health and disease) (an isotonic loss).