Sometimes as pets get older, just like people, they start to have weight problems. It's not uncommon and there is likely something you can do about it. My previous dog when she turned thirteen had the same problem, and switching her from dry food to canned made it much easier for her to digest, as did putting in her food a little bit of yogurt or probiotic (an additive containing the same bacteria as yogurt) to help replenish the healthy bacteria in her stomach she was losing by throwing up.
However, there are many factors you should think about with your cat that have nothing to do with changing food. Sixteen is not that old for some cats, and I've known a few in their twenties. So, if your cat looks healthy otherwise (good teeth, clear vision ect.) then he's probably got another problem. Does he just lay around all the time? More often then normal? Then he might have a thyroid problem (as in, his thyroid has stopped working). This can cause weight loss. He could also have heart problems that cause weight loss, but since you said that he hasn't been keeping his food down it's probably something else. That something else could range from him simply needing a different diet, or it could be a more complex problem like stomach cancer.
You really just need to take him to the vet if you are that concerned, even if it is something as simple as switching the food. That way, the vet can give him a complete check-up and you two can talk about how to better accomidate your aging pet and what to look for if something does go really wrong in the future.
I mean, pets do get old, but it would be nice to have your fears put to rest, wouldn't it?
Oh, and you have wormed your cat recently right? And made sure his vaccinations are up to date? Because if you haven't a good worming would be a must, especially if he likes to prowl around outside.
2007-03-02 17:59:43
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answer #1
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answered by randomtrickpony 2
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Your old friend needs a vet check up. He may just be less active and therefore loosing muscle mass but he could also have a medical problem that the vet can help. Old cats like old people need more medical care than younger ones sometimes. Some older cats do have digestive problems and some acquire problems assimilating or making use of their food and need a special diet. He could also possibly have worms or a low grade infection of some sort. The main thing is that he has been your friend for a long time and he needs your help now to find out what the cause of the weight loss is and see what can be done to keep him healthy and happy,
2007-03-02 19:34:36
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answer #2
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answered by A F 7
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Yes, you should. 16 is elderly for a cat, even though he could have several more years left. My first thought is diabetes, but he could also have liver or kidney disease, or a thyroid condition. Your vet will draw blood and possibly urine to look for certain chemicals in the blood which will show how your cat's organs are functioning. Then, you can decide on whether or not to treat and what course of treatment to take.
Good luck.
2007-03-02 17:10:57
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answer #3
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answered by ? 7
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Its likely old age.. 16 is pretty old for a cat.. typical life expectancy for cats is 15-16 years at best thes days.. 20 odd years ago it was only 6-7
ADDENDUM: I;m not at all trying to be mean.. but likely yer cat is getting to the end of his/ her life 16 in cat years is like about 88 years old in human.. By all means take em to a vet.. but dont expect any good news.. make his/her time as and comfortable as you can in the declining time (which is what i suspect at that age) And hardest of all.. do the right thing when that time comes...
I know it sucks.. believe me I know..
2007-03-02 16:59:46
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answer #4
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answered by darchangel_3 5
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Yes.
Older pets that suddenly start losing weight are probably sick. He needs blood work to check Liver, Kidney and Thyroid. They are the usual culprits.
These tests will also detect any cancer he might have.
Lots of conditions are treatable but have to be caught early. Medicine will control some problems too. But you gotta get to a vet.
Good luck
2007-03-02 16:49:48
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answer #5
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answered by Anonymous
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I once had a cat who was a 16 year old female who developed diabetes. She was eating as well but was loosing weight due to the disease. Does your cat drink a lot of water? If so i would get him check out. Im not trying to scare you; im just giving you a heads up. It could very well be just normal signs of aging otherwise.
take care.
2007-03-02 17:36:23
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answer #6
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answered by Nick G 1
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Could be a thyroid...per experience with an old cat. Also, if he's and indoor cat try some "indoor catfood" or some food for older cats. MOST BEST ADVICE, SEE A VET!
BEST OF LUCK!!!
Sandy
2007-03-02 16:48:58
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answer #7
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answered by cocacolachickee 2
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Sudden loss of weigh in a cat of any age is always a caue for concern. Take him to the vet for a blood test (and whatever other tests the vet may determine as appropriate). Lots of cats live to their 20's now. With proper diagnosis and eary treatment, you kitty coud live for many more years!
2007-03-02 19:28:08
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answer #8
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answered by Phoebhart 6
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I would get his blood tested for things like kidney disease, which can cause weight loss and also vomiting. It's always good to get a cat that age blood and annual checkups every six months anyway so you can catch anything early, if it is possible.
2007-03-02 17:26:59
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answer #9
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answered by boncarles 5
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Don t keep snacks near to your computer
2017-04-03 06:39:51
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answer #10
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answered by Bette 3
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