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Why is my 16-year-old cat thin and losing weight? Is it normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Russian Blue | Female | spayed | 4 lbs

My cat is 16 yrs old. She is quite thin but otherwise is in good health. Is thinness normal for this age?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 6th, 2017

Hi and thank you for your question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Thinness at 16 years of age could be due to muscle loss from arthritis and old age, but it could also signal weight loss which can be caused by a number of health problems such as kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatic insufficiency, inflammatory bowel disease, and heart disease just to name a few common causes.

I would encourage you and take Annabelle to her veterinarian for some testing to determine the cause of the thinness and whether the cause is something of concern based on what the diagnosis is. That is my best advice and the only way to determine the cause.

I wish you and Annabelle the best!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Weight loss and lean muscle mass can be a normal part of He aging process. However, this change should be gradual. If you are noticing weight loss over a short period of time it could be indicative of a medical condition. Such as hyperthyroidism, kidney disease or diabetes.

If you also noticed changes to appetite, lethargy, increase in thirst or urination then j would advise a check over by your veterinarian. Otherwise, I believe you are noticing a normal change associated with aging.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Paula Simons
Veterinarian
Published on May 10th, 2017
Some amount of muscle wasting is normal in older cats but it is important to make sure the weight loss is not associated with an underlying medical condition. I would recommend having full bloodwork done on Tigre if your vet did not do it at his yearly exam. He should also be eating a good quality senior diet to ensure that he is receiving the correct nutrition for his metabolic needs.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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