10 Most Common Cat Weight Loss Causes

Have you noticed that your fur baby is not quite as cuddly and plump as it used to be?

Weight loss in cats can be a sign of an underlying health issue or just a natural part of aging.

In this short blog post, we’ll be exploring some of the causes of cat weight loss and what you can do to help your feline friend get back to their purrfect self.

So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s get started!

Before we continue, let’s quickly outline how to identify a cat losing weight…

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How to know your cat is losing weight

Based on the search results, here are 9 common ways to know your cat is losing weight:

Increased appetite: Contrary to what one might expect, some cats may experience increased hunger while losing weight, as their body tries to compensate for lost calories.
Increased thirst and urination: Cats that are losing weight may drink more water than usual, leading to increased urination.
Visible ribcage: As cats lose weight, their ribcage may become more prominent and visible through their fur.

Loss of muscle mass: Cats that are losing weight may experience a loss of muscle mass, leading to a “wasting” appearance.
Lack of interest in food: Some cats may become less interested in food or stop eating altogether as they lose weight.
Coat changes: Cats that are losing weight may experience dry or flaky skin and a dull, unkempt coat.

Vomiting or diarrhea: Digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea can be a sign of weight loss in cats. Learn what to feed a cat with diarrhea and vomiting.
Lumps and bumps: Cats that are losing weight may develop lumps or bumps under their skin, which can be a sign of cancer or other health issues.
Lack of energy: Cats that are losing weight may become less active or seem lethargic due to a lack of energy from reduced caloric intake.

It’s important to keep an eye out for these signs and take your cat to the veterinarian if you suspect they are losing weight.

Your veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause of the weight loss and provide appropriate treatment.

Learn more about why your cat is throwing up.

What are some common causes of weight loss in cats?

There can be a variety of causes of weight loss in cats, ranging from simple lifestyle changes to serious medical conditions.

Some common causes of weight loss in cats include depression, cancer, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and stress.

Loss of appetite is also a common factor contributing to weight loss in cats.

It is best to consult a veterinarian if you notice sudden or significant weight loss in your cat.

Learn more about identifying a cat that is overweight.

Let’s break it down further…

Cat Weight Loss Causes

The following are some of the most common cat weight loss causes and how to handle them:

1. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in cats, most commonly affecting middle-aged and older felines.

It is caused by an overactive thyroid gland that produces an excess of thyroid hormones, resulting in more metabolic activity in the body than it requires.

One of the most common symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism is weight loss, despite a good appetite.

Other symptoms can include increased thirst, increased urine output, restlessness, vomiting, and diarrhea.

To fix hyperthyroidism in cats, medications such as Methimazole can be used to control the condition by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones.

Radioactive iodine therapy, which destroys the abnormal thyroid tissue, can be a more permanent fix for hyperthyroidism but is more expensive.

Proper diet is also important in managing hyperthyroidism, as some cats lose weight due to increased energy expenditure.

A highly digestible diet with adequate protein and increased caloric density may be beneficial for these cats.

It is also important for cats with hyperthyroidism to have regular monitoring of their thyroid levels and overall health by a veterinarian.

Learn more about how to identify a sick cat.

2. Not getting enough food

Not getting enough food is one of the most common causes of weight loss in cats.

This can occur due to a variety of reasons such as picky eating, dental problems, or feeding a poor-quality diet.

To fix this issue, it is important to ensure that the cat is given enough food, in the right way and at the right time.

Scheduled feeding times and providing enough variety of food can encourage cats to eat.

Feeding smaller and more frequent meals can also help. If dental problems are the cause, soft or wet food may be a better solution.

Additionally, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to evaluate any underlying health conditions.

Learn more about why your cat is not drinking enough water.

3. Dental problems

Dental problems are one of the most common causes of weight loss in cats. As cats age, dental issues such as periodontal disease and tooth resorption become more common.

Dental problems can lead to pain and difficulty eating, resulting in weight loss.

To fix dental problems in cats, regular dental check-ups with a veterinarian are recommended.

This can help identify and address any dental issues before they become more serious.

Additionally, providing cats with dental-friendly food and toys, as well as regular teeth brushing, can help prevent dental problems.

Treatment for dental issues in cats may include dental cleanings, tooth extractions, and other specialized dental procedures.

Pain management may also be necessary to help cats feel more comfortable while eating and to prevent further weight loss.

If you suspect that your cat is suffering from dental problems, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible to address the issue and prevent further complications.

4. Kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common causes of weight loss in cats, especially in older cats.

As CKD progresses, cats can lose their appetite, experience vomiting, and become dehydrated, leading to further weight loss.

While there is no cure for CKD, early detection and proper management can slow its progression and improve the cat’s quality of life.

Treatment may include a low-protein diet, medications to control blood pressure and manage nausea and vomiting, and subcutaneous fluid therapy to address dehydration.

Regular monitoring and follow-up with a veterinarian are crucial to managing CKD in cats and preventing further weight loss.

5. Worms or parasites

Worms or parasites in cats are a common cause of weight loss in cats. The most common types of parasites that affect cats include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and giardia.

These parasites can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea.

Chronic infection can lead to severe weight loss and dehydration. To fix the problem, a veterinarian may prescribe deworming medication or antibiotics to eliminate the parasites.

Preventative measures such as keeping the litter box clean, practicing good hygiene, and providing appropriate nutrition can also help prevent the infestation of parasites.

6. Changes in diet or routine

Changes in diet or routine are one of the most common causes of weight loss in cats.

This can be due to a sudden change in food, an abrupt change in schedule, or even a new environment.

To fix it, it’s important to identify and address the underlying cause. Gradual dietary changes and maintaining a consistent routine can help prevent weight loss in cats.

If weight loss has already occurred, offering frequent small meals, high-calorie diets, and appetite stimulants may be helpful.

However, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying illnesses or conditions that may be causing the weight loss.

7. Stress or anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common causes of weight loss in cats. When cats experience stress or anxiety, their appetite may decrease, and they may lose weight as a result.

One way to fix this is by trying to identify and eliminate the source of stress or anxiety.

This can be done by creating a calm and comfortable environment for the cat, providing regular exercise, and spending quality time with the cat.

Additionally, there are products and medications that can help reduce stress levels in cats, such as pheromone products and anti-anxiety medications, which should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help to identify any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to weight loss.

8. Diarrhea or vomiting

Diarrhea and vomiting in cats are common causes of weight loss, particularly if they last for an extended period of time.

If a cat is experiencing diarrhea or vomiting, it is essential to keep them hydrated, and in severe cases, seek veterinary attention.

The underlying cause of diarrhea or vomiting should be identified, which could be anything from a gastrointestinal infection to parasites or a more serious medical issue.

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause, which may include medication, dietary changes, or surgery.

In some cases, weight loss may persist even after the underlying cause of diarrhea or vomiting has been addressed, and supportive care such as feeding high-calorie foods may be necessary to help regain the lost weight.

9. Digestive disorders

Digestive disorders in cats are considered one of the most common causes of weight loss in cats.

These disorders can present as vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy, and dehydration.

Some of the common digestive disorders experienced by cats are gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastrointestinal parasites.

If you suspect that your cat has a digestive disorder, the best thing to do is to take them to a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment may involve management of the symptoms, dietary changes, administration of medication, or in some cases, surgery.

To prevent digestive disorders in cats, feeding them a healthy diet and providing clean water are important. Avoid giving your cat human food or food that is not meant for cats.

Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups can help identify any potential digestive problems before they become severe.

10. Cancer

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is one of the most common causes of cancer in cats and may lead to various symptoms like loss of appetite, progressive weight loss, and poor coat condition.

Other types of cancer, such as thyroid carcinoma also affect cats leading to weight loss.

Weight loss can also be due to other health issues like hyperthyroidism. If you notice your cat losing weight, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Fixing cancer-related weight loss often involves treating the underlying disease with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, while proper nutrition and supportive care can help the cat regain lost weight.

However, the exact treatment approach will depend on the diagnosis and severity of the disease.

Treatment of Cat Weight Loss

There are several treatment options available for cat weight loss, depending on the underlying cause.

One common treatment method is to switch the cat to a canned diet food fed several times per day, rather than leaving food down all the time.

Additionally, a low-carbohydrate diet can help cats with diabetes maintain proper glucose levels.

Another possible cause of cat weight loss is hyperthyroidism, and this condition can be treated with medication or surgery.

It’s recommended to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the weight loss and the best course of treatment for your particular cat.

In some cases, your vet may prescribe medication, recommend a diet change, or suggest surgery. Exercise and playtime can also be helpful in managing cat weight loss.

Preventing Cat Weight Loss

If you’re looking to prevent weight loss in cats, the first thing to do is to ensure that your cat is eating enough food.

Observe your cat’s feeding habits and make sure they are eating the recommended amount of food for their weight and activity level.

You can also try feeding your cat several small meals throughout the day, rather than leaving food out all the time.

This can help ensure that your cat is getting enough calories to maintain their weight.

Additionally, make sure your cat has access to plenty of fresh water and is getting enough exercise, as physical activity can also help with weight maintenance.

If you notice that your cat is losing weight despite these efforts, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue, so it’s important to consult with a veterinarian.

When to seek veterinary care if your cat is losing weight

If your cat is losing weight, it is recommended to seek veterinary care immediately, as it could be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as hyperthyroidism or gastrointestinal problems.

If your cat is losing weight, vomiting, experiencing diarrhea or constipation as well as refusing to eat, it’s time to see your vet.

It is also important to monitor your cat’s weight and consult with your vet if you notice any sudden or significant changes in weight.