My old cat isn't eating, is wobbly. Should I take her to the vet?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 9th, 2017

  If she is not eating much than she won't be defecating much either. There are many reasons why a cat could have a decreased appetite including dental disease, infections, parasites, liver/kidney disease, gastrointestinal issue, constipation, palatability of the food, etc. You could try a different food and see if that helps. Otherwise, have your vet to an examination to help determine the cause and treat the problem. Your vet can do an oral examination to make sure she doesn't have dental disease causing pain and run lab-work and take an x-ray, if needed, to help diagnose.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on December 13th, 2019

  It could be a sign of a health problem, unfortunately it is a very general symptom that could be a part of almost any disease, if it doesn't resolve soon or if it gets worse i would recommend a vet visit and a blood test to start with.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

  Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

  Published on February 10th, 2020

  Hi there. Possible causes of weight loss and decreased appetite in an older cat like this could include chronic kidney or liver disease, a GI problem such as inflammatory bowel disease or pancreatitis, a thyroid problem, dental disease, or even some type of cancer.
  
  Further diagnostic testing such as additional blood work, abdominal x-rays and ultrasound, and possibly intestinal biopsies would likely be needed to get a diagnosis. If this isn't possible, there are medication options that could be tried depending on his lab results so far, so I would recommend discussing the situation with your veterinarian to see what he/she recommends as the next step from here.
  
  Altneratively, you could seek a second opinion from another vet in your area, or request referral to an internal medicine specialist for more advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful