Too fat, too thin. Veterinarians see it daily. The causes multiple. This month, I will address the older pet losing weight. Yesterday, an older cat came in with weight loss and reminded me what owners often say, "I thought Fefe was just getting old"
Although it varies with breeds and species, senior issues start cropping up around 10 years of age. Weight loss is not necessarily bad, but if they are losing muscle mass, that is, you can feel their spine easily or head ridges, something could be wrong. 90% of the time, simple blood tests can identify issues which can either be corrected, slowed, or managed. Anyone with a senior pet should consider yearly blood tests.
Also, a common problem I will see is senior pets losing weight and they have them on senior diets, which encourage weight loss. Many seniors (like us) need added calories, not less.
Next month, I will address younger pets losing weight.
Thanks for listening.
