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My cat has cancer and eats, but won't gain weight. What can I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 13 years and 4 months old | 9.6 lbs

how to help my cat with cancer gain weight? he eats but he is not gaining weight

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 4th, 2017

They make cancer specific diets such as science diet N/D. The problem is when you have cancer, the cancer cells steal the nutrients that their body needs and that helps it replicate, so you are essentially feeding the cancer. The main goal is the keep a good appetite and use small frequent meals

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Rachel
Veterinarian
Published on August 22nd, 2017
Hi there. Sorry to hear about Esmarelda's diagnosis. Generally all pets that are diagnosed with cancer should be staged, which means completing bloodwork and imaging studies (x-rays and ultrasound) to determine the extent of the disease. Depending on the location, invasiveness, and spread of lymphoma, it may be treatable with chemotherapy or other medications. In general, treating the cancer itself to shrink any tumors is the best way to make cats feel better so they can begin eating and put weight back on. Other symptoms that are associated with cancer such as nausea, pain, and fever can be managed with medications specific to the problem. Cats can be very finicky about food and can quickly develop food aversions when they don't feel well, so I encourage you to work with your veterinarian to come up with a treatment plan to give Esmarelda the best quality of life possible.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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