Why is my cat losing weight? Is the cat losing weight or getting sick

Why did cats lose weight? Has your cat lost weight on its own? Unexpected weight loss is often a sign of an underlying health problem. Many owners believe that weight loss in older cats is normal, but this is not the case. If you notice unexplained weight loss in your cat, it’s important to take action.

How to tell if your cat is losing weight? If it happens gradually, it can be difficult to tell if your cat is actually losing weight. If your cat has a lot of hair or has been slightly overweight, it can be difficult to tell when weight loss is occurring. To assess a cat’s physical condition, first observe the cat’s body from above. At an ideal weight, there should be a distinct but not extreme pleat at the waist. Next, place your hands on the cat’s sides. Ribs should be covered with a thin layer of fat. If the ribs feel very prominent and visible, your cat may be underweight. What Causes Cats to Lose Weight? In many cases, cats lose weight when they don’t eat enough. However, some diseases can cause weight loss despite adequate food intake. Depending on the cause, weight loss may or may not be accompanied by other signs of illness. Many health problems can cause weight loss in cats, some more serious than others.

1. Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism is a relatively common disorder that most commonly affects older cats. Cats with hyperthyroidism produce too much thyroid hormone due to an enlarged goiter. This enlargement is usually caused by a benign tumor that grows on the thyroid. Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, increased appetite, increased thirst, and increased urination. Some cats also experience vomiting, diarrhea, and hyperactivity. 1 Some cats vocalize and act restless. The fur of a cat with hyperthyroidism may look disheveled and greasy. Hyperthyroidism is treated with radioactive iodine or oral medications.
2. Chronic kidney disease Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common diseases in elderly cats. The kidneys produce important hormones that filter waste from the blood, help regulate blood pressure, and promote the production of new red blood cells. When a cat’s kidneys stop functioning properly, it can cause a variety of other problems. When cats have kidney problems, increased thirst and urination are the first signs to notice, followed by loss of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. 2 Chronic kidney disease has no cure and is usually supplemented by medical treatment with medications, dietary changes, and fluids.
3. Diabetes Diabetes is another common disease that can affect cats. This endocrine disorder affects the ability of the pancreas to produce insulin, a hormone needed to regulate blood sugar. Signs of diabetes include weight loss, increased appetite, thirst and urination, and lethargy. 3 Diabetes is usually controlled with insulin and dietary changes. Other medicines may be used. Some cats even go back to normal after a few months of treatment.
4. Gastrointestinal problems Any problem in the gastrointestinal tract can affect a cat’s weight. First, gastrointestinal problems can reduce appetite. Second, some problems can prevent the gastrointestinal tract from properly digesting food and absorbing nutrients, which can lead to weight loss. Some of the gastrointestinal problems found in cats include intestinal parasites, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis and other pancreatic problems, and even gastrointestinal cancers. Gastrointestinal problems can cause loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and more. Treatment for gastrointestinal parasites may be as simple as deworming a cat. Other gastrointestinal problems often require medication and supportive care. 5. Dental problems Oral and dental problems can cause extreme pain, loss of appetite and lead to weight loss. Common dental problems in cats include periodontal disease, resorbable lesions, and tooth fractures.
5. Some cats develop stomatitis, a painful inflammation of the cat’s mouth and gums that may be immune-mediated. Signs of dental problems include bad breath, drooling, claws on the mouth, and even bleeding from the mouth. The first step in treatment is to have your veterinarian put your cat under anesthesia and perform professional dental cleanings, examinations, and treatment as needed. Some cats require oral surgery and/or tooth extractions.
6. Cancer Like people, cats can develop cancer in almost any part of the body. Cancer may or may not appear as a tumor. Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers in cats, it can exist in the gastrointestinal tract, oral cavity, lymphatic system, etc. Most forms of cancer eventually lead to general malaise, lethargy, pain, muscle wasting, loss of appetite and overall weight loss. Stressed cats are very sensitive to changes in the home. Because they are often good at hiding outward signs of stress, they may develop greater symptoms later.

Any environmental stressor can cause anxiety and stress in cats. Loss of appetite is a common sign of stress, which can eventually lead to weight loss. There are many other health problems that can cause d weight loss. If your cat has underlying health problems, you may or may not notice other signs of illness. Also, many diseases have similar symptoms, so diagnosis requires a veterinarian. Treatment for weight loss in cats Treatment for weight loss in cats depends on the cause. If you notice your cat is losing weight, your first step should be to schedule a veterinary appointment. Your veterinarian will first perform a physical examination. Next, lab tests and/or X-rays may be required to identify the problem. Based on the findings, your veterinarian may recommend medication, dietary changes, surgery, or other treatments. If your veterinarian gives your cat a clean health certificate, the weight loss may be due to insufficient food intake or some unknown or undetectable condition. Ask your veterinarian for advice on feeding and environmental enrichment. If you can identify the source of your cat’s stress, start by working to reduce it. Your veterinarian can also recommend a diet that is nutritionally and calorically correct, which may help your cat gain weight. If your cat is losing weight despite your changes, be sure to follow up with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary specialist for advanced diagnosis. How to Prevent Weight Loss in Your Cat You can prevent weight loss in your cat by regularly monitoring his condition and seeing your veterinarian for regular health checkups. Cats are experts at hiding diseases and injuries, but your veterinarian may be able to spot problems before they get out of hand. Be sure to report changes in cat behavior to your veterinarian immediately. Treating health problems at an early stage is much easier than waiting until your cat is seriously ill.