My cat (14 years old) does not seem to be eating as much anymore

Hi,

Just recently, as the weather got hotter, my senior kitty is not eating much. I've read a few places indicating that it's normal for cats to not eat as much in the summer weather. Is this so? She always used to be quite hungry and would let me know when it was time to eat, but recently she just picks at the food throughout the day and there isn't as much waste in the litter box.

She does not seem to be losing weight and is acting the same, but I just thought I'd see if I can get any replies as to whether or not this may be normal. Is it just a function of age that they don't eat as much as well? I should add that she is hyperthyroid and so is on methimazole for the past year.

I guess maybe it's no cause for alarm as long as she is eating and drinking, but I thought it would be best to post this and get some advice. I should add that she only eats dry food - the same brand since I have her, and so nothing has really changed as far as diet or type of food, etc.

Thanks so much,
Keith

My advice is to take her to the vet ASAP... Do not let a cat go without eating, and changes like this can be a sign of health problems, especially in senior kitties. Please do not just get to a conlusion on you your own - take her to the vet to rule out problems first.

Wow...quick reply! Thanks. I probably will make an appointment for her. Like I said, she does eat...but when she is at her food bowl she pretty much just picks at a few pieces and then leaves. She also does not (and never has) like 'leftovers'. So if the food sits for a day or two she doesn't really want it anymore...likes it fresh from the bag. Wouldn't I be seeing some weight loss if there is a problem??

Please go to the vet and get a senior blood panel done... what you are describing is often one of few "senior illness and disease" symtoms...

wt loss of 1lb on a 10 lb cat may not be noticable yet would be a 10% or Significant loss

Thanks. I'm going to call tomorrow to make an appointment. The cat seems to be behaving normally - same level of activity, no sign of lethargy, etc. But I think also that it's worth checking out. Taking blood....sheesh....she hates it and really gives them a hard time. The last time they did this was before hyperthyroidism was diagnosed.

Originally Posted by three4rd

Wow...quick reply! Thanks. I probably will make an appointment for her. Like I said, she does eat...but when she is at her food bowl she pretty much just picks at a few pieces and then leaves. She also does not (and never has) like 'leftovers'. So if the food sits for a day or two she doesn't really want it anymore...likes it fresh from the bag. Wouldn't I be seeing some weight loss if there is a problem??

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If she doesn't like leftovers, then don't free feed. Feed her scheduled meals where you give her a bit of food so that it's fresh. If you know this, then why not try and feed her fresh kibble? Also, I would try canned food to see if her appetite improves but for now get her to the vet.

Cats show signs of illness when it's too late...it's a defense mechanism so make that appointment today, not tomorrow. The longer your cat goes without eathing or getting enough nutrients, the longer your cat will have to stay in the hospital. Cats that go too long without eating can develop hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver, which will require a long hospitalization, tube feeding, medication and well, chance of death.

Is your cat peeing? Pinch the skin at the scruff gently and twist it a bit then let go. Does it spring back quickly or slowly? Look at her gums...are they dry? If the skin springs back slowly and if her gums are dry, then she is dehydrated. Get her to the vet now!!!