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Why is my senior cat losing weight and drinking excessive water?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 19 years and 6 months old | 7.5 lbs

My cat is 20 years over and over the last 6 months he has been losing weight excessively! He has never been as small as he is now, currently about 7.5 lbs. His appetite is still present but he doesn't eat as much anymore. He does drink a lot of water! He is an indoor cat and is usually kept in a bedroom for at least 10 hrs a day. Can you please guide me on this issue?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 26th, 2017

My concern with Menie is that he can have one of a few different things going on. As cats age they can become diabetic, have chronic kidney disease or even become hyperthyroid. With all these diseases you will see an increase in drinking and weight loss. I would recommend taking Menie to the veterinarian and having blood work and a urinalysis performed to see exactly what is going on with him. The urine will also show if there is a urinary tract infection, which they can have if they have diabetics, kidney disease or even if they don't have another disease going on. I hope Menie feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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