Why is my senior cat peeing outside box, losing weight, but tests are clear?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Female | spayed | 14 years and 1 month old | 12 lbs
Our 14yo cat has recently begun urinating and dedicating in different areas of the house, as well as in her litter box. She is also drinking a ton and urinating 12-20 times per day. Bloodwork and x-rays were completely clear. Vet did not see cancer on the x-rays but she doesn’t appear stressed. However, she’s lost a third of her weight in the last eight months. Any other thoughts? She’s confined to a small area until we figure out an answer.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 29th, 2021
It's interesting that her blood work was normal with that information. If she is losing weight and urinating a lot, it is possible that she could be losing protein in her urine. A urinalysis would check for this. Hyperthyroidism is another cause for weight loss in an older cat. Thyroid hormones are easily tested for but not commonly found on routine lab work - it has to be specifically requested. Another possible cause for the inappropriate urination and defecation in a senior-aged kitty would be pain from arthritis. It sounds like your vet hasn't quite gotten to the bottom of Olivia's medical concerns. I would take her back in for follow-up so they can move on to the next step in diagnostics. Also, we can never completely rule out cancer, since there is no simple cancer test. It can be a little tricky to find if the body isn't showing us specifically where it could be, but I am hoping that isn't what is going on in this case.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 19th, 2017
It sounds like there are a couple of things going on with Abigail at the moment. She could have an abscess in her cheek causing the swelling. That could be brought on by a fight with another animal or by a dental problem. An abscess will be painful, and that would keep her from wanting to eat. It would make her mouth sore as well, especially if she has a dental problem, and she will not want to use her mouth to clean herself. The problems with leaping onto the sofa and balance could be due to arthritis or joint issues, while the weigh loss and urination could be due to kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism. I would have her seen by a vet first thing Monday morning for a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, urinalysis, and potentially x-rays. Using these tests, the vet can diagnose what is causing all her symptoms, and can discuss treatment options with you.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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