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My cat is losing weight, not eating, and sick. Should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

My cat is a fussy eater and goes through periods where we are concerned as he loses weight and is sick after eating his meat or biscuits which are constantly available as is water. Sometimes he won't eat at all . I even cook him fresh fish which he doesn't always eat and though his coat is beautiful I can feel his hip bones. He is a 5 year old mustered indoor cat and seems to be suffering these bouts more frequently so any advice would be great. Thank you

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Toots!

I would bring a stool sample and have Toots examined by your Vet. I would recommend full blood work including Feline Leukemia and FIV. If that is normal then I would consider maldigeetion and malabsorption blood work (tests B12, folate and 2 pancreatic enzymes and consider an ultrasound of his belly to rule in or out underlying intestinal disease like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or small cell lymphoma. Most IBD cats are treated with a prescription diet and anti-inflammatories. Since he is getting worse I recommend starting a work up.

I wish you and Toots the best!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on March 8th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Lil Bub is very handsome!

I recommend starting with an exam with your Vet. I would test (or test again) for Feline leukemia and FIV. Sadly we have to consider FIP (feline infectious peritonitis) as a reason for a poor appetite and weight loss in a young pure bred cat. FIP has no cure and is devastating. Also there is no good test for it. I would bring a stool sample to check for intestinal parasites and would likely deworm him anyway even if the test is negative. I would recommend full blood work. If the above is normal then I would do an belly ultrasound next to look for IBD. If his intestines are thick I would send out a B12, foalte, TLI, PLI to check for maldigestion/malabsorption. IBD is treated with a hypoallergenic diet and steroids.

I hope this helps and I wish you and Lil Bub the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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