However, pinnipeds and cetaceans typically regulate their water balance by metabolism and only drink sea water occasionally to maintain salt balance. In contrast, sea otters and manatees often drink sea and fresh water.
Nevertheless, pinnipeds and cetaceans generally manage their hydration by metabolic processes and only sip sea water sporadically for salt regulation. Conversely, sea otters and manatees often drink a mix of seawater and freshwater.