My Cat Lost a Lot of Weight & Stopped Eating

Weight loss and loss of appetite in a cat should cause concern. While the solution may be as simple as offering extra attention to thwart depression or separation anxiety, the same symptoms could signal that something much more serious is going on. When normal attempts to revive a sluggish appetite fail or your cat continues to lose weight with no obvious cause, it's probably time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Parasites

Intestinal parasites are a common cause of diarrhea, vomiting and weight loss. Fecal and blood tests will identify which parasites are causing the problems so you can administer a suitable dewormer. Cats are most vulnerable to hookworms, tapeworms, giardia and heartworms, all of which can do considerable damage if left untreated.

Fleas transmit tapeworms or cats can pass giardia to each other via the litter box by eating rodents that are infested. It's often the case that if one cat is infested, all cats in the same household will need treatment.

Dental Problems

If the cat's teeth are bad, eating may be unpleasant and he may refuse to eat or eat too little, resulting in weight loss. Older cats that have lost some teeth or are experiencing decay are especially vulnerable. During the cat's annual check-up, ask your veterinarian to check its teeth and clean them if necessary.

Feline Leukemia

Feline leukemia is a highly infectious disease that is usually fatal, although some cats may carry the virus but never contract the disease. Fe-Luk is transmitted via saliva and body fluids. One of the primary symptoms is weight loss along with anemia and loss of appetite.

Feline Cancer

Weight loss and loss of appetite or difficulty eating along with lethargy and loss of interest in daily activities could mean your cat has developed cancer. Other signs of cancer include stiffness or lameness, sores that don't heal, unexplained bleeding through any body opening, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty urinating or defecating. You may also notice lumps or bumps on the body. As is always the case with cancer, early diagnosis and treatment gives your cat the best possible chance for recovery.

Stimulating a Cat's Appetite

Once you or the vet has determined the cause of weight loss or change in eating habits, you'll need to not only keep your cat hydrated by supplying clean water, but also find a food that will tantalize his sense of smell. Foods that have a strong smell, such as sardines or tuna, are often hard for a cat to resist. Vitamin B12 can stimulate the appetite as can milk thistle and catnip. For some cats, you may need a simpler solution---just holding your cat more often and especially at mealtimes will make her feel more secure and safe, which can improve her disposition and appetite.