Weight Loss Warnings: How Much Slimming Is Too Much

Unplanned weight loss is a shared early signal of hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disease, especially in older cats.

As a rule of thumb, losing more than about five percent of body weight within a month or two merits a vet assessment; in small cats a few hundred grams is already a big share.

Weigh at home with a pet scale or the hold-and-subtract method under consistent conditions, and use rib and spine feel as supporting clues.

A great appetite with ongoing slimming is a classic red flag for hyperthyroidism or malabsorption, not a normal seasonal change.