Why is my senior cat losing weight but eating a lot with bad breath?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | neutered
My cat is 16 years old, he has been loosing weight lately even though he eats a lot! And also his saliva is smelling really bad, I checked his teeth and they seem fine, what could it be?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 6th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Losing weight despite having a good appetite is a classic sign seen with hyperthyroidism. This is just one possibility among other conditions. I recommend you check in with a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for this and proceed with therapy accordingly. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 6th, 2020
Hello. Weight loss and excessive hunger can be signs of different diseases in older cats. Diseases like hyperthyroidism and diabetes would be the most common. It is recommended that your cat be examined by a veterinarian and bloodwork to gain the necessary information to make a diagnosis. Once your veterinarian has more information, appropriate treatment can be recommended. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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