Many cat owners worry about their beloved pets getting a bit on the chunky side. After all, many felines live sedentary lifestyles. When it comes to weight, however, a chubby cat is not the only cause for alarm. Low weight may also be a sign that something is amiss.
Observation
Before even putting your skinny kitty on a scale at the veterinarian's office, take a quick look at her physique with your own eyes. If her ribs are prominently visible, she may be underweight. With a healthy feline, the ribs should only be apparent to the touch. When it comes to her waist, you should be able to notice it when standing directly above her.
Weight
All cat breeds are different when it comes to weight. Some breeds are simply large than others. For instance, a healthy fighting weight for a tiny Singapura is certainly going to be a lot less than that of a typical Maine coon. To determine whether or not your cutie is dangerously underweight, speak to her vet about it. The vet should be able to tell you, based on her breed, whether or not her weight is in the healthy range.
Medical Condition
If your cat is dramatically underweight, it may be a sign that the little one has an underlying medical issue. If you suspect that this may be the case, schedule a check-up with the vet as soon as possible. Dramatic weight loss in felines can be related to everything from diabetes and kidney disease to toothache and hyperthyroidism. If your cat is elderly and eats normally, thyroid issues are a particular possibility.
Stress
Nerves can also lead to serious feline weight loss. If your cat is stressed out to the max, she may lose her appetite and as a result, lose a lot of weight! A wide array of lifestyle and environmental changes can cause a cat to be stressed and stop eating -- anything from moving to a different house and having a baby to changing your working schedule and the loss of a family member. If this is the case, you may be able to get her gain back with a lot of attention and TLC, however. Whether you spend more time playing with your cat or you get her a special new toy, you may be able to get your pet's focus off of whatever issue is troubling her!
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.