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Why is my senior cat eating more, losing weight, and peeing a lot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Bengal | Male | neutered | 17 years and 6 months old | 10 lbs

I have a 17 year old male Bengal. Over the past 6 months his appetite has really increased. He has lost weight. I haven't noticed an increase in thirst but he does urinate a fair amount. I lost a Pixie Bob to diabetes which made me wonder about the Bengal. What do you think?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 2nd, 2017

My first thought given Hunter's ravenous appetite and subsequent weight loss is that he may have hyperthyroidism. Other possible causes include diabetes (but I would expect a noticeable increase in water consumption), liver disease, or cancer. At the point, I recommend taking Hunter to his vet for an exam and blood testing to get to the bottom of this situation. Hyperthyroidism is typically fairly straightforward to diagnose with blood work and can often be managed relatively easily and inexpensively with medication at home. I hope this helps and that all goes well!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Diabetes and kidney disease are two common illness older cats get. Both have the same symptoms of drinking and urinating more with weight loss. Geriatric cats also are prone to a nodule on their thyroid that can cause a hyperactive thyroid which results in an increased appetite and weight loss. They also tend to vocalize a lot and wonder at night more. Each of these disease can be diagnosed with a blood sample. All are incurable but manageable to extend his life.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 7th, 2018

    Increased appetite and urination in a cat of Dude's age can be due to a medical condition such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. The best thing to do for him is take him into a vet on Monday or Tuesday. I recommend a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis. These tests will help diagnose if he is suffering from a medical condition such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. Both of these conditions can be medically managed. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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