Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my senior cat not eating, losing weight, and sleeping a lot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 13 years and 5 months old | 12 lbs

My 13 year old calico cat Sammy has not been eating as much/very little food and water over the past 3-5 days or so. She is also sleeping a lot more, has lost weight and has scant output in her litter box. The first picture is her a few months ago. The second one is her today. Please help me figure out if I need to get her further evaluated or not. Thank you.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 17th, 2019

There are three very common diseases in older cats that can all be easily ruled in/out with simple blood testing. 1. kidney disease 2. hyperthyroidism 3. diabetes I suggest you get Sammy to the vet to get the blood testing done so you can find out what is going on with her so she can get the appropriate treatment.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 13th, 2016

    In an old cat who is eating regularly but still losing weight plus having seizures, I would be concerned that she may have diabetes or kidney disease. I would take Josie into the vet today for an exam. The vet can do a physical exam, routine blood tests, and a urinalysis to diagnose if she does have diabetes and kidney disease. Once a cause is diagnosed, the vet can discuss a treatment with you.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 22nd, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Shane! He is very cute! There are many causes for an old cat to lose weight, they are: diabetes, liver or kidney failure, hyperthyroidism (overacting thyroid), inflammatory bowel disease or cancer. Most of the above can be determined on physical exam and blood work. I hope this helps and I wish Shane the very best!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored