If your cat is overweight and you put him on a diet or switch to food for indoor cats only, you will notice some weight loss which is perfectly normal. The weight loss will not be too dramatic and take place over a period of time. If you notice that your cat is losing weight and you didn’t change his diet at all, here are some things to consider.

• Feline Leukemia Virus Disease Complex

This is a fatal disease that is transmitted through saliva and other secretions. Some other   symptoms to look for is fever, depression, enlarged lymph nodes and diarrhea.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBC)

This causes chronic vomiting and diarrhea which will lead to the weight loss. This disease can be treated after the cause of the irritation has been determined. A change in diet will be required in addition to some pet medication.

• Liver Disease

The liver keeps the blood free from toxins and helps with digestion. Besides the weight loss, the cat will vomit and have diarrhea. The cat will also have yellow eyes and mucus membranes. He may even have seizures and bad breath.

• Diabetes

This is an endocrine disorder that is caused by an insulin deficiency in the body. Diabetes causes weight loss and excessive thirst.

• Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can be fatal to cats. It means that the cat has lost more than 70% of it’s kidney function. It can be caused by infections, kidney tumors or cysts.  Your vet will prescribe a wet diet and phosphorous binders will help to keep this condition under control

• Stress

If a cat is under stress, this will cause weight loss. You must determine the cause of the stress and correct it.