Just like we watch our own diets, it is important to keep an eye on your cat’s eating habits and food intake. Noticing changes in your cat’s appetite and eating behavior can indicate something more serious is taking place. If your cat has a lack or loss of appetite, also called anorexia, that persists, you should consult with your veterinarian. Poor appetite, especially weight loss, is often the first indication of an underlying illness or chronic condition in cats.
- Some causes of weight loss may include medication side effects, bacterial or viral infections, gastrointestinal obstructions or ulcers, dental diseases, bowel disease, and cancer.
- Chronic diseases of the kidneys, liver, pancreas, gastrointestinal system, and heart may also cause weight loss in cats.
Signs of Weight Loss in Cats
It is important to keep an eye on your cat’s eating habits and observe any changes in their body condition while holding or petting them. Report these changes to your veterinarian.
- Reduced interest in food
- Changes in the amount eaten
- An increased amount of time taken to eat
- Bony protrusions or ribs
- Tender spots
- Lumps or bumps
If your veterinarian makes a diagnosis or treatment plan, they may prescribe a special diet or appetite stimulant medication for your cat to help control weight loss until the disease is managed or cured.
Mirataz Controls Undesired Weight Loss in Cats
Mirataz appetite stimulant for cats
Mirataz is a new FDA-approved transdermal ointment that manages undesired weight loss in cats. Mirataz, mirtazapine, is a prescription appetite stimulant for cats. Mirtazapine is an antidepressant-type medication that works to increase appetite, support weight gain, and may reduce vomiting. Mirataz is a transdermal gel that absorbs through the skin into the bloodstream to stimulate cats appetite. Unlike traditional medication, Mirataz is not a pill or liquid medication and does not rely on your cat’s desire to eat. Mirataz is given by applying a ribbon of ointment on the inner surface of your cat’s ear tip using a gloved finger or finger cots. Because the medication is administered transdermally, gloves should be worn when handling Mirataz to prevent accidental topical exposure. For cats that are difficult to give oral medications to, applying Mirataz may take some frustration and time out of “med time”.
