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Why is my senior cat not eating food, only treats, and losing weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 15 years and 10 months old

My cat is about 15 years old (a rescue), neutered and declawed. She stopped eating her (dry) food about five months ago. She won't eat wet food or table food but will eat crunchy 'treats'. I know this isn't balanced or healthy as her only food, but I don't know what else to try. She has lost weight, but seems to be healthy otherwise. At her advanced age, she does sleep a lot, but she like to play and is otherwise active. Any suggestions as to what else I can do for her? Thank you

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 28th, 2018

Appetite changes and weight loss in older cats are usually due to an underlying medical problem, rather than just "getting old." Some common possibilities would include chronic kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or dental problems. Many of these issues are very treatable once a diagnosis is made, so I would recommend taking Poppy to the vet for an exam when you are able to. He/she can do blood work to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate treatment.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 14th, 2017

    There could be a medical reason behind why Freeway isn't eating as much as he normally does. It could be he's suffering from dental problems, a systemic illness, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, liver disease, or a number of other problems. Given that you moved into the new home back in March, I wouldn't expect unease with where he's living to start now, and because he is a senior cat, I would be more concerned that it's a medical problem causing it. Cats shouldn't go long without eating, as it causes a fatty liver which is fatal without treatment, so I would take him into a vet this weekend if the vet has normal business hours. Otherwise, I would take him in Monday. I recommend getting a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis. These tests will will help the vet identify if there is a medical problem causing his loss of appetite, and then the vet can discuss treatment options with you. I hope this helps!

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