Elura Approved for Weight Loss in Cats

Posted on June 28, 2021 by Holly

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Elura (capromorelin oral solution) as the first drug for the management of weight loss in cats with chronic kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease, also known as CKD, is the persistent loss of kidney function over time. Cats with chronic kidney disease may begin to lose weight before getting diagnosed by a veterinarian and typically continue to lose weight as the disease progresses.

Capromorelin, the active ingredient in Elura, provides a novel mechanism of action to address weight loss in cats with CKD. It stimulates appetite and the secretion of growth hormone. Weight gain in cats taking Elura is thought to be due to a combination of increased food intake and metabolic changes.

Capromorelin is also approved as Entyce for appetite stimulation in dogs. Elura is the second product that the FDA has approved for the management of unintended weight loss in cats. The first product, Mirataz, is an appetite stimulant applied topically to the skin. Learn more about the approval of Elura.

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 you are concerned about your cat’s weight loss, speak with your veterinarian about treatment options.

This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease and is purely educational. Please seek advice from your pet’s veterinarian with any questions regarding the health of your pet.

Mirataz Appetite Stimulant for Cats

Posted on August 31, 2018 by Holly

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”.