Dear VetBabble,
Why is My Cat Acting Starving and Losing Weight Despite Eating and Drinking Excessively?
My cat seems to be constantly hungry, eating and drinking numerous times a day. She’s become thin, has diarrhea and has been vomiting occasionally. She also hasn’t used her litter box for the past two years. We’ve tried dewormers, antibiotics, and iron supplements, but the veterinarian hasn’t found anything in her lab results. I’ve heard that my cat could have hyperthyroidism, even though the blood tests didn’t show it. What should I do?
Possible Reasons for Your Cat’s Symptoms
We understand that it’s worrisome to see your cat experiencing these symptoms. There might be several possible reasons for this behavior. Let’s discuss in detail about the potential health issues and what steps you can take to help your cat. 1. Hyperthyroidism in Cats Hyperthyroidism is a common hormonal disorder in older cats, resulting from an excess of thyroid hormones. This condition can cause weight loss, increased appetite, and diarrhea. If your veterinarian has not found anything abnormal in your cat’s blood tests, it’s still possible that your cat may be suffering from this condition. We suggest discussing hyperthyroidism with your veterinarian or having your cat referred to a veterinary internist. It’s a good idea to have her thyroid tested again, as cases of “euthyroid sick” can sometimes be missed. 2. Why is My Cat Vomiting? While vomiting is not entirely uncommon in cats, frequent vomiting can signal an underlying issue. Causes can range from simple hairballs to more complicated medical conditions such as gastrointestinal diseases or toxins. If your cat is vomiting regularly, it’s recommended to consult with your veterinarian for further tests and diagnosis. 3. Why Does My Cat Drink More Water? Increased water consumption may be due to a variety of causes, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or urinary tract infections. If your cat has been drinking excessive amounts of water, it’s essential to discuss this with your veterinarian, as further evaluation and testing might be needed.
Importance of Regular Vet Checks for Your Cat
It’s vital to schedule Regular Vet Checks for Your Cat to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of potential health concerns. Regular check-ups can help your veterinarian monitor your cat’s overall health and detect any abnormalities before they become severe. During a visit, your veterinarian can perform a thorough physical examination, recommend necessary vaccinations, and suggest further testing based on your cat’s specific needs.
Steps You Can Take to Help Your Cat
Here are some steps you can take to help your cat while working with your veterinarian to identify the root cause of her symptoms: 1. Maintain a consistent diet: Ensuring your cat receives appropriate nutrition is essential for her overall health. Provide her with a well-balanced diet designed for her specific age, size, and any known health conditions. Avoid giving her human food or treats that might upset her stomach. 2. Keep track of symptoms: Monitor your cat’s eating and drinking habits, vomiting episodes, and litter box usage. This information can help your veterinarian determine the potential causes and effective treatment options. 3. Encourage hydration: Make sure your cat always has access to fresh water. Try using a pet water fountain to entice her to drink more, ensuring proper hydration and possibly reducing the risk of urinary health issues. 4. Provide a clean litter box: Maintaining a clean litter box can encourage your cat to use it more frequently, helping you track her urinary habits and overall health.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to work closely with your veterinarian to identify the cause of your cat’s symptoms and find appropriate treatment options. Monitoring her health and behavior, combined with regular vet check-ups, can help ensure a happy and healthy life for your feline friend.
