Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my 17-year-old cat not eating, losing weight, and losing hair?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My 17 year old cat suddenly quit eating Blue Healthy Aging after 3 years. I changed to Merrick. He has lost a lot if weight. I tried to add wet food. Now that's all he wants. His hair is still coming out.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 18th, 2018

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. So sorry your cat is having this issue. I suggest you get him to your vet for a check up and some blood testing. Thyroid disease is very common in older cats as is kidney disease and diabetes. All of these things can cause similar symptoms and all are easily diagnosed with simple blood testing. You need to realize that at 17 years old he is about 85 in human years. At this age, things start to fail and go wrong. You need to find out what is wrong so you know how to best treat him. Some things are very easily treated with daily medications. I don't think this is something you are going to be able treat at home without knowing what the underlying cause is. Hope this helps. Best wishes!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 28th, 2017

    If Tigger has nott had any bloodwork performed recently I would suggest a check up and possible bloodwork. Hyperthyroidism is common in older cats and can cause weight loss despite eating well. Diabetes is another possibility. Overgrooming can also been seen with metabolic disorders or a stress reaction. Bloodwork can help rule out or diagnose the illnesses commonly seen in older cats. Good luck. Hope Tigger is better soon.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 27th, 2018

    Hi. Poor Pumpkin. It appears she has some hair loss and weight loss. With her being older, the top differentials that come to mind is hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or kidney deficiency. Any of these can cause weight loss and even coat changes. Bloodwork can be done to quickly rule in or out these 3 possibilities. I would recommend getting her examined by your veterinarian and starting with a good senior panel bloodwork.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored