Have you noticed that your cat is losing weight? Even if they still appear to be eating normally, unintentional weight loss in cats often indicates an underlying health issue that requires further investigation.
In this blog, we look at 8 most common health conditions that cause sudden weight loss in cats.
Dental disease
Dental issues can make it difficult and painful for your cat to eat, causing them to lose weight. If you notice your cat is having trouble chewing food, dropping pieces repeatedly when eating or is drooling all of a sudden, then itโs important that you have their teeth checked by a vet.
Diabetes
Another common cause for weight loss in older cats is diabetes, with the condition also causing increased appetite, drinking and urination as well as lethargy. Cats are most likely to have Type 2 diabetes, which can be reversed with insulin and dietary changes. Diabetes can be diagnosed through blood and urine testing.
Gastrointestinal issues
Gastrointestinal problems in cats are another leading cause of rapid weight loss, with accompanying symptoms typically including vomiting and diarrhoea. These problems may stem from food allergies, infections or inflammatory bowel disease. Gastrointestinal issues can be a little trickier to diagnose and may require further testing.ย Treatment can include dietary changes and oral medications, depending on the exact diagnosis.
Hypothyroidism
If your cat is losing weight despite eating more than ever and is also drinking and urinating at an increased rate, then it may be suffering from hypothyroidism. This is most common in older cats, although can occur in cats as young as six. Left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to high blood pressure and severe heart problems. However, there are a range of treatment options available including medication, and the condition can be quite easily diagnosed with a blood test.
Kidney disease
Kidney disease can also cause sudden weight loss, along with increased thirst and urination. This is another condition more common in older cats. Your vet can perform blood and urine tests to check how your catโs kidneys are functioning and recommend the best way to manage the condition.
Intestinal worms
If you have a cat who spends time outdoors and has lost weight but is still eating normally, they may have intestinal worms. They may also have additional symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea and bloating. If your vet suspects your cat has worms, they will analyse a faecal sample, and if positive, can prescribe medication to eliminate the worms.
Stress
If there has been a significant change to your catโs living environment, such as the arrival of a new pet, baby or house move, then the stress from this change can cause your cat to stop eating. In this situation, itโs important that your cat has their own space in the house where they feel safe and secure to help ease their distress and hopefully get them eating again. Your vet can also assist with advice for easing your catโs anxiety in your specific situation, including the use of synthetic pheromones and medication.
Cancer
Cancer can also cause your cat to lose weight quite rapidly, along with reduced appetite, lethargy and changes in behaviour. To reach a cancer diagnosis, your vet will need to perform additional diagnostic testing, such as an ultrasound.
What should I do if my cat is losing weight?
If you notice that your cat is losing weight, itโs important to get them checked out by a vet. They will perform a thorough physical examination as well as blood and urine testing to help determine the source of the weight loss.
If diagnosed early, most health conditions can be well treated, allowing your cat to live a happy and long life.
If you have any concerns about your catโs weight or any other health matters, the vets at Moorabbin Veterinary Hospital are here to help. To make an appointment, you can book online or call us on 03 9555 4808.
