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Why is my cat eating more, losing weight, and licking her rear?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 9 lbs

My cat is eating more but losing weight. Wants to be by herself. Obsessive licking her back quarters..

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on December 14th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The excessive eating with weight loss is a classic sign of hyperthyroidism which is a fairly common condition in cats so this should be considered as a possibility. This is usually managed well with medications. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. If this is confirmed, medications could be started at the time. The licking could be due to allergies for example and could be addressed at the time. Good luck!

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