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Senior cat losing weight, eating constantly, and anxious to see vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 12 years and 2 months old | 3 lbs

My 12 year old cat has been crying with bowel movements, losing weight, and wanting to eat constantly. She is otherwise lively and energetic. She is VERY high anxiety so I don't want to take her out of house to vet. Any help would be appreciated.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 30th, 2017

Munchkin is a beauty! I would recommend a vet exam and probable bloodwork, older cats can be prone to several metabolic conditions and eating constantly but losing weight sounds like she may have an overactive thyroid gland. To make it less stressful there are a few things you can try. Some areas may have housecall veterinary practices. This would bring the vet to her. If not an option you may want to consider talking to your vet about oral anxiety medication for Munchkin to take before she goes into the office. My own old cat is terrified to ride in the car, but needs routine bloodwork so I medicate her at home for a peaceful trip and easier time at the clinic. If you don't currently have a veterinarian for her you may want to research Fear Free clinics to see if one is in your area. Good luck.

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Unfortunately weight loss with an increased appetite is not a symptom that allows for treatment without a vet. This is a sign of serious diseases such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and kidney disease. Your kitty needs bloodwork to diagnose her and also to evaluate for possible constipation. You can pick up an over the counter hairball laxative to help bowel movements but she truly needs a vet visit.

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