FAQ: Why Elderly Cats Loose Weight?

Well-recognized causes of weight loss in old cats include chronic renal disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and dental problems. Most are readily suspected and confirmed based on physical examination and routine laboratory testing.

Why is my elderly cat getting so skinny?

Feeding the older cat Weight loss can be an early sign of illness, so check with your vet. It is common for older cats to develop medical conditions that cause them to lose weight, such as kidney and thyroid disease. If your cat is losing weight, it is important to consult your vet as soon as possible.

Is it normal for cats to lose weight as they get older?

Gastrointestinal Changes Cats tend to lose the ability to digest and absorb fat as they grow old. Although obesity does occur in middle-aged cats, feline seniors more often lose weight and take on a distinctively “boney old cat” feel.

What to feed an older cat that is losing weight?

For many cats, the best way to lose weight is with a canned diet food fed several times per day, rather than leaving food down all of the time. One of the reasons canned diet foods work better is because finicky felines often prefer wet food to dry.

Why is my cat losing weight but still eating?

When your cat is losing weight but still eating, there might be an underlying medical problem, particularly hyperthyroidism or diabetes. If your cat is losing weight rapidly or is underweight, consult your veterinarian.

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What are the signs of an old cat dying?

Signs Your Cat Could Be Dying

  • Extreme Weight Loss. Weight loss is very common in senior cats.
  • Extra Hiding. Hiding is the telltale sign of illness in cats, but can be hard to define.
  • Not Eating.
  • Not Drinking.
  • Decreased Mobility.
  • Behavioral Changes.
  • Poor Response to Treatments.
  • Poor Temperature Regulation.

How can I fatten up my old cat?

What to Feed a Cat to Help Them Gain Weight

  1. Find a Type of Food That Fits Your Cat’s Preferences.
  2. Make Sure the Food Fits Their Nutritional Needs.
  3. Feed Small, Frequent Meals.
  4. Try Warming Up Your Cat’s Wet Food.
  5. Offer the Right Snacks Between Meals.
  6. Decrease Your Cat’s Anxiety.

Why is my 17 year old cat so skinny?

Well-recognized causes of weight loss in old cats include chronic renal disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and dental problems. Most are readily suspected and confirmed based on physical examination and routine laboratory testing.

Why is my cat suddenly so skinny?

There are two main causes for a skinny cat: Either they aren’t eating enough, or they’re expending more calories than they are taking in. They may not be eating enough due to stress, dental disease and/or nausea or a host of other reasons. The other reason that a cat might be too skinny is a lack of access to food.

What is the average life expectancy of an indoor cat?

Indoor cats live on average 10-15 years, while outdoor cats live on average 2-5 years This handout is intended to help you sort out the pros and cons associated with each lifestyle so you can rest assured your cat will have both an enriched life and protection from environmental hazards.

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How much should an old cat weigh?

Most domestic cats should weigh about 10 pounds, though that can vary by breed and frame. A Siamese cat may weigh as few as 5 pounds, while a Maine Coon can be 25 pounds and healthy.

What are the symptoms of a cat dying of kidney failure?

Your cat may vomit or have diarrhea and often shows a loss of appetite with corresponding weight loss. The buildup of toxins in the blood can lead to a depressed cat or even more severe neurologic signs such as seizures, circling, or head pressing. Some cats will die from these toxic buildups.

What should I do if my cat is losing weight?

If you notice your cat is losing weight, your first step should be to schedule a vet appointment. Your vet will do a physical exam first. Next, lab tests and/or x-rays may be needed to determine the problem. Based on the findings, your vet may recommend medication, diet change, surgery, or other treatment.

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