Why did my 4-year-old cat suddenly grow after we got a new kitten?

Question

My 4 year old cat just grew 3 inches in length in 2 weeks. She's been a small runt (2 lbs) since she stopped growing at 1. But we got a male kitten 2 weeks ago and she started growing, she weighs 4 lbs now and is clearly larger including her head and paws. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 11 months old | 4 lbs

Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA · Accepted Answer

Your cat's sudden growth spurt probably has less to do with the introduction of the male cat and more to do with the levels of growth hormone in her system. Feline growth hormone will be increased in cats around the age of maturity (2-4 years). Some diseases including diabetes melitus and acromegaly are also associated with higher levels of FGH. Finally, stress can also result in increased growth hormone levels. If the introduction of the male has caused Deesa to be extremely stressed, then it could be possible that the growth spurt is due to his introduction to the house.

Why did my 4-year-old cat suddenly grow after we got a new kitten?

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