Weight Loss In Elderly Cats
Many elderly cats exhibit weight loss and it can be difficult to determine the precise cause of the problem especially because metabolism changes with age.
Weight loss in elderly cats. Conditions such as kidney disease become more common as cats get older. Weight loss in senior cats is a common finding that is often overlooked but that is a poor prognostic sign for continued good health. It may be a sign of a developing heath problem or the progression of a pre existing condition if your cat begins to lose weight.
Weight loss can be further split into polyphagic which means a progressive decrease in body weight in the presence of an increased appetite. On this occasion we are going to talk about some diseases that occur with weight loss and a good appetite. This list is by no means complete.
Gastrointestinal cancer has to be considered in an older cat. Treatment for weight loss in cats. Weight loss commonly afflicts middle aged and older cats.
It is important to monitor your senior cat s weight as even the slightest change in weight can be significant. Unfortunately weight changes in older cats are often attributed merely to aging so clients may not seek veterinary care or veterinarians may inadvertently delay a diagnostic workup until marked weight loss is evident or additional clinical signs arise. Next lab tests and or x rays may be needed to determine the problem.
Older cats especially obese older kitties can develop type 2 diabetes a condition that can lead to rapid weight loss. If you notice your cat is losing weight your first step should be to schedule a vet appointment. As cancer cells infiltrate the intestinal tract absorption of.
Know causes of weight loss in older cats cat health march 23 2020 4 catsfud old cat losing weight. Starting with a detailed history work your way through a complete workup in these patients. David williams a professor in the department of veterinary clinical medicine in collaboration with colleagues at nestle purina is investigating the underlying cause useful diagnostic tests and treatments that may help arrest or reverse weight loss in.