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Why is my cat eating so much but still looks like skin and bones?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 5 lbs

Last month I rescued a male cat approximately 3 to 4 years old. He has a hearty appetite and wants to eat constantly, the problem is he's nothing but skin bones. He looks so fragile it breaks my heart. I just need some suggestions, I'm tired of hearing take him to a vet, not everyone can afford to do that. Anyways my name is Paul and I thank you for your time.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2017

I can certainly understand being frustrated at being told to take Felix into the vet, but there are medical illness that would cause him to eat heartily and still be extremely skinny, and those can only be diagnosed by a vet. These medical illnesses include diabetes, kidney disease, dental problems, feline inflammatory bowel disease, hyperthyroidism, FIV, FELV, intestinal parasites, or even cancer. To diagnose these requires a blood test, a urinalysis, and possibly x-rays. Having Felix seen by a vet is the only way to definitively know what is causing his hearty appetite but extreme skinniness, and that way Felix can be treated so he can gain weight. I will give you some resources that may help you afford a vet visit for him. You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website.
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962
https://www.redrover.org
https://www.carecredit.com
http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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