Answer

Hi there,

Thank you for your post!

Whenever I have an owner present to me with a case similar to what you write I discuss that there are a certain group of disease processes which tend to be more likely when there are signs such as this in older cats.

Possibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Hyperthyroid (overactive thyroid)

- Diabetes

- Kidney problems

- Liver problems

- etc

With this information - the first step to evaluate underlying causes would be basic bloodwork. We need to look into specific values including:
- Kidney
- Glucose
- Thyroid
- Liver
- etc.

As you report above, if those tests are non-diagnostic - meaning they did not show an answer as to what is going on - the next test I would recommend would be an abdominal ultrasound.

 

http://www.petplace.com/cats/abdominal-ultrasound-in-cats/page1.aspx

With that said - what would I be looking into with the ultrasound? Why do I recommend this? Of course it would be part of a thorough evaluation - especially with weight loss to this degree, but notably I would be looking to see if there was evidence of problems such as intestinal thickening due to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), liver problems, or even cancer of organs (Lymphoma) that does not show up on bloodwork.

 

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=598

 

I hope this helps!
_____________________________________________________________________

Please click "ACCEPT" if the information I have provided has been of help so I receive credit for my work. Bonuses are always welcome and Feedback is appreciated. Thank you.
The above is given for information only. Although I am a licensed veterinarian, I cannot legally prescribe medicines or diagnose your pet's condition without performing a physical exam. If you have concerns about your pet I would highly advise contacting your regular veterinarian.