My 19 yr old cat has an increased appetite, but no other symptoms of hyperthyroidism…any ideas?
My 19 year old cat has decided to go on an eating binge. It could be the change of seasons – all my cats kinda adjust certain behaviors as seasons change. But Em is just always, always hungry. She’s not been quite this adamant about eating before.
So I naturally thought hyperthyroidism. But she has not one single other symptom. Not a one. She hasn’t lost weight, she hasn’t gained weight, she hasn’t gotten frisky, she isn’t drinking extra water, no troubles in the kitty litter, her fur is as beautiful as always…
Does anyone have any thoughts on possible other causes? I’d like to consider other causes before I drag my poor little old lady off to the vet.
And no, don’t worry – I won’t take your advice as a substitute to a visit to my vet. I’ve had my sweetie for 19 years – I’d not risk her health now.
Sometimes a kidney problem can lead to an increased appetite but no weight gain. I would go ahead and visit the vet. She will take some tests to evaluate blood cell counts and a ton of other things. Its relatively painless to your cat. You may want to consider some homeopathic remedies to reduce her stress and improve her immune system.
could be she’s bored and doesn’t really feel like playing but there’s no stopping eating. kind of like a human, we eat at times instead of excersing. as long as she’ s acting normal, i wouldn’t get overly upset. after nineteen years, she’s entitled to some extra food. i’m sure she’s happy and well cared for.
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You’ve really looked after this cat for it to have lived this long. That’s a wonderful age.
I was also thinking thyroid/tumor problems too but perhaps it’s worth getting him checked out just in case it is this or perhaps a form of diabetes.
Hyperthyroidism is quite common in cats over 7 years of age.
Elderly cats needing vet visits around twice a year to keep an eye on things.
Have you changed his food to something else lately? I think though that because of his great age, it’d be an idea to phone the vet and have a chat and be guided there.
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Mine was just starting in with hyperthyroidism and had no symptoms at all. We found out from the blood test done prior to her getting a tooth pulled and the rest of her teeth cleaned. Not all cats would have signs showing, usually it’s a loss of weight and an increase in drinking, but it depends on the cat.
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Sometimes a kidney problem can lead to an increased appetite but no weight gain. I would go ahead and visit the vet. She will take some tests to evaluate blood cell counts and a ton of other things. Its relatively painless to your cat. You may want to consider some homeopathic remedies to reduce her stress and improve her immune system.
References :
http://www.coolest-cat-care.com/paliver