Why is my older cat losing weight but still eating? (& what to do next)
As our feline friends age, their purrs may remain robust, but subtle changes in their health start to emerge. The experience that worries cat lovers’ hearts: Why is my older cat losing weight but still eating pretty normally?
Several common health issues can cause weight loss in older cats, even if they are still eating. In my clinical experience, conditions like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and cancer are common causes of weight loss that may leave a cat’s appetite normal or even increased.
In this article, I’ll explain the primary causes of weight loss in senior cats with a good appetite, offering insights and guidance to help your kitty feel their best.
Why is my old cat wasting away?
Like humans, cats experience physiological changes as they age. Just as our hair turns gray and our metabolism slows down, cats’ bodies change as they enter their golden years.
But when something dramatic like unexplained weight loss occurs, it becomes urgent to find the underlying cause. It’s especially confusing when your cat loses weight in spite of having a normal (or sometimes even increased) appetite.
Let’s break down what is known about aging changes in older cats…
Aging and metabolism
As cats advance in years, their metabolic rate often decelerates. At first they may gain weight but if their hunger drops as a result of a slower metabolism, they could drop weight.
However, a significant weight drop may not be a mere byproduct of aging. It could be an indicator of a health issue.
Muscle vs. fat loss
Not all weight loss is created equal. We must distinguish between the loss of muscle mass and the loss of fat.
Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, might not be very evident but can be felt, especially along the spine or legs. It’s pretty common for cats over about 13 years old to have some loss of muscle. (3)
Fat loss, on the other hand, is more noticeable around the belly and chest. Both types of losses can have different causes and implications.
Underlying health conditions
As cats get older, their body organs can wear out, develop abnormal functioning and even grow cancerous tumors.
In the subsequent sections, we will dissect the common reasons older cats lose weight, arming you with knowledge and advice to support your furry friend through their golden years.
5 causes of weight loss in older cats
It’s not unusual to find a senior cat gradually getting skinnier over time. You might not notice other symptoms if they come on slowly. Even if they’re eating well, health problems might be to blame. Here are some common conditions to consider.
1. Hyperthyroidism
Feline hyperthyroidism is a condition where the cat’s thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormone. This increased production accelerates the cat’s metabolism, causing them to burn calories at a faster rate.
Despite having a voracious appetite, cats with this condition often lose weight rapidly. One study reported that worldwide, around 4-20% of geriatric cats are afflicted with hyperthyroidism. (2)
2. Feline Diabetes
Diabetes in cats occurs when their bodies can’t use insulin properly. When a cat doesn’t respond to insulin properly, its cells can’t absorb energy. So even though they’re eating a lot, they’re basically starving. Lack of nourishment leads to muscle breakdown and fat loss.
3. Kidney Disease
The kidneys play an important role in filtering toxins and waste from the bloodstream. When a cat has kidney disease, these toxins can build up, leading to decreased hunger and increased protein loss through urine.
As the disease progresses, it can lead to significant weight loss, even if the cat seems to eat regularly. Some researchers estimate that 35-81% of geriatric cats have chronic kidney disease! (1)
4. Gastrointestinal (GI) Problems
A healthy digestive system is important for nutrient absorption. Any disturbance in this system can lead to a loss of body weight. Some common GI issues in cats include:
- Pancreatitis: An inflammation of the pancreas, this condition interferes with the cat’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients, sometimes causing weight loss over time.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): IBD leads to chronic inflammation of the intestines, which interferes with nutrient absorption. Cats with IBD often experience weight loss, even if their desire for food remains consistent.
5. Cancerous growths
Cancer can affect any part of a cat’s body and is a leading cause of weight loss in older felines.
The disease can interfere with a cat’s ability to absorb nutrients or can create tumors that place physical demands on the body, draining its energy reserves. Some cats might also experience reduced hunger due to discomfort or the body’s response to the cancer.
Symptoms accompanying weight loss
While losing weight is a significant sign, other symptoms can hint at underlying health issues. These can include
- Increased drinking
- Increased urination
- Extra wet litter box
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Change in normal demeanor (often grouchier)
Other things pet owners should watch for
Your cat’s behavior can provide a lot of insight into their overall health condition. Keep an eye out for:
- Changes in grooming habits, such as neglecting their coat.
- Altered activity levels, including a preference for resting or hiding more than usual.
- Increased vocalization, particularly during nighttime hours.
What should I feed my cat to gain weight?
Remember, unexplained weight loss can be a sign of underlying health issues, so it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian. It’s hard to achieve weight gain weight without treating a cat’s health problems.
If you’ve treated the disease and your cat needs a little extra help gaining weight, you can change things up a bit. But make sure you still provide a nutritionally balanced diet. Here are some suggestions:
| Food Type | Descriptions |
|---|---|
| High-Calorie Cat Foods | Specially formulated foods designed to help cats gain weight. Typically higher in protein and fat. |
| Kitten Food | More calorie-dense and nutrient-rich than regular adult cat food. Can be fed temporarily to increase calorie intake. |
| Supplements | Cat-safe nutritional supplements or calorie boosters. Always consult a vet before using. |
| Wet Food | Many cats prefer the taste and texture. Increasing its amount can encourage eating and adds hydration. |
| Treats | Some healthy, high-calorie treats can be beneficial in moderation. Avoid overindulging. |
Food for senior cats losing weight
Below, I’m sharing two products I use and recommend for cats who need to eat high calorie food.
Be careful about changing your cat’s food. It’s best to introduce it gradually over at least 7 days. If your cat has a history of sensitive stomach, kidney problems or diabetes you should ask your vet for advice before trying a new diet.
Editor’s Note: NaturalPetsHQ.com is supported by readers and may earn for purchases made through links in this post.
Try feeding your cat a prescription high-calorie cat food such as Hill’s® a/d Urgent Care. A good non-prescription option is Iams Perfect Portions Healthy Kitten.
When to seek veterinary care
If your senior cat is noticeably losing body mass, it’s time for a visit to the veterinarian.
Make note of any additional observations or symptoms you’ve noticed and report them to the veterinarian. The vet will probably recommend blood and urine tests plus radiographs to screen for the common senior cat diseases mentioned earlier.
The good news it that there are good treatments for many of these conditions. Using a combination of medication and disease-specific diets, your cat may be able to regain their weight and feel better at the same time.
Conclusion
Experiencing the golden years of our feline buddies can be both rewarding and challenging. It’s comforting to know that, despite the potential health hiccups, we’re not alone in seeking the best for our whiskered friends.
Remember, any loss of weight or behavioral change in your senior cat is a nudge to be more attentive, but it’s not a sign to lose hope. With the right knowledge, timely veterinary intervention, and good nursing care, your kitty friend can continue to thrive throughout their senior years.
The content provided on NaturalPetsHQ.com is for general information only. It is not meant to replace individualized medical advice from your own veterinarian. Read more on the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use page.
Author: TB Thompson, DVM is a veterinarian with 20+ years of experience in clinics, emergency medicine, and community shelters. She started Natural Pets HQ to give pet owners accessible, trustworthy guidance written by a real vet.
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References
- Brown, C. A., Elliott, J., Schmiedt, C. W., & Brown, S. A. (2016). Chronic kidney disease in aged cats: clinical features, morphology, and proposed pathogeneses. Veterinary pathology, 53(2), 309-326.
- McLean, J. L., Lobetti, R. G., Mooney, C. T., Thompson, P. N., & Schoeman, J. P. (2017). Prevalence of and risk factors for feline hyperthyroidism in South Africa. Journal of feline medicine and surgery, 19(10), 1103-1109.
- Peterson, M. E., & Little, S. E. (2018). Cachexia, sarcopenia and other forms of muscle wasting: common problems of senior and geriatric cats and of cats with endocrine disease. Animal Endocrine Clinic. Gerontology: an inside out perspective, 2018, 65.
- Simpson K: Feline IBD and Lymphoma: Pitfalls and Progress in Diagnosis and Management. Pacific Veterinary Conference 2017.