13? Year old cat losing weight

[buckingfrolicks]

I think my cat is around 13 she's a rescue. She's always been svelte but is losing weight despite being well fed (and she eats her catches, mostly). I've given worm pills but she's still uncomfortably thin

She seems fine in herself

Should I take her to the vets? She hates the vets it will be v traumatic so I've avoided going.

[reallyanotherone]

Yes take her.

That age is prime for renal issues. Taking her sooner than later means you can get her on a renal diet and medication which will really affect her quality of life going forward.

I'm not a rush to the vets person but this is one thing where early intervention could make a big difference to how the cat feels for the rest of it's life. Worth the short term pain imo.

[pugsake]

My Mam has two 16 year olds with the same problem like the pp said its renal. Probably best off going too the vets.

[jwww]

Could be a kidney issue, get to vets :(

[finnmcool]

The same thing happened with my cat and it was renal.
Definitely go to the vet.

[Vinorosso74]

Yep vet trip needed. There are various reasons a blood test will be able to identify what the problem is. Hope she gets sorted out soon.

[thecatneuterer]

Yes there are lots of things it could be - thyroid being another one. She needs a blood test.

[Leax]

As said above a full blood screen is needed to out-rule renal, liver thyroid and other issues. Raised white cells for example might indicate a parasitic infection that got past the wormer that requires a course of stronger treatment. In addition a dental check is important as it might reveal sore gums/cavities that are making it harder for her to eat comfortably.

[StrongBelwas]

Take her! My old lady cat just died aged 15. The vet wasn't sure what the problem was (after loads of tests) but she dropped so much weight. I wished I'd taken her sooner (even if they couldn't find a cause for it). I've only just actually realised how much weight she lost because I've been looking at old pictures and she looks enormous in comparison.

She was a very timid cat but she managed ok at the vets better than me tbh

[buckingfrolicks]

We're off to the vets at 7.30 tonight. Thanks for the perspective! Will update. Off to depress self googling renal issues in cats

[Wolfiefan]

Hoping it's all good news. Our old girl went very thin. Nothing to do with renal problems. Thyroid. She was on pills until she died (from an unrelated issue) it's easily treatable.

[Vinorosso74]

Pleased you're taking her in today. Lots of things are easily treatable in cats. Hope she behaves well for the vet

[buckingfrolicks]

She was so brave! They think thyroid. Test results tomorrow. I'm so glad I took her she's my best pal

[buckingfrolicks]

Here she is earlier today

[timtam23]

My elderly cat lost a lot of weight and it was his thyroid too. Fortunately there are a few treatment options. I hope she feels better soon

[Em3978]

Mine was only 8 when she suddenly lost loads of weight and would eat and eat (even broke into the plastic catfood boxes!) she had thyroid problems. She's now 10, back to normal weight and stable on 2 tablets a day.

[cozietoesie]

Well done for taking her in.

[StrongBelwas]

Aww she's beautiful! Glad you took her.

[cozietoesie]

Amazing stripes there.