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Why is my older cat suddenly so hungry and always wanting more food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Female | spayed | 16 years old | 8.5 lbs

I have a healthy 16 year old Tabby cat. Up until a few months ago, I would give her wet food in the morning and wet food in the evning and she had a bowl of dry food to munch on when she wanted it. It has been that way for her entire life. She is not overweight as she weighs approx 8-9 pounds. Now she eats in the morning, munches all day, and eats at night. When she finishes the wet at night, she begs for more. She is relentless in meowing for more. Why is she suddenly so hungry?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on August 18th, 2017

There are two very common health issues in older cats that are known for causing a sudden increase in appetite like this: hyperthyroidism, and diabetes. I would definitely recommend taking Lucy to the vet for a check-up when you are able to - he/she can do blood work to check for these problems. If she does have one of these illnesses, they are normally very treatable with medication once a diagnosis is made :)

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    They can act overly hungry for a couple of different reasons: 1) She has developed an overactive thyroid gland. This can happen in older cats. They are also usually more active/aggressive and drink more. This can be easily tested for by a veterinarian and there are a few different treatment options. 2) Diabetes will also cause them to eat more and drink more. In-turn, they tend to urinate more also. Since Lucy has not been overweight, this is less likely, but still possible. This can also be tested for by your veterinarian. Either way, it's best not to wait to get these problems diagnosed and treated. They both can cause quite a lot of damage if left untreated. I hope that helps and all goes well with Lucy.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on July 18th, 2017

    There are some medical issues in older cats, such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes, that often cause an increased appetite like this - so I would be concerned that Kitty may have something like this causing him to be hungrier than normal. If he continues to act this way, I would recommend taking him to the vet for an exam - he/she can do blood work to check for these problems and get him started on appropriate treatment if necessary.

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