Why Is My Cat Skinny [10 Reasons & What to Do]

Is your feline friend looking a little too skinny? Are you looking for answers as to why your cat keeps looking? Then keep reading…

In this post, I’ll explain the secrets behind your cat’s slender figure and unlock the answers to the burning question: “Why is my cat skinny?”

From potential health issues to dietary tips, I’ve got you covered with my insights that’ll keep your cat purring and thriving.

Let’s get started…

How to Know if Your Cat is Skinny

There are a few telltale indicators to watch out for when evaluating a cat’s weight in order to identify if they are skinny.

First, feel or see their rib cage; if it’s easily felt or viewed, it can be a sign of low body fat.

You can also check for a visible waistline when viewing the cat from above – if their body is shaped like an hourglass, it may indicate they are underweight.

Further, telltale signs of a skinny cat include a protruding spine and easily palpable pelvic bones through the skin.

Lastly, you can gain a further understanding of their weight status by contrasting their general body shape with a chart of the optimum body condition.

Why Is My Cat Skinny

In my opinion, your cat may be skinny due to various reasons such as inadequate diet, poor nutrition, parasites, health issues like hyperthyroidism or diabetes mellitus, gastrointestinal problems, neoplasia (cancer), constant changes in diet, and stress.

I recommend you monitor your cat’s weight regularly, address any unexplained weight loss with a veterinarian, and consider factors like diet, health conditions, and stress that could contribute to your cat being skinny.

Having said all that, I’ll be diving deeper into the above reasons why your cat might be skinny, which are as follows:

1. Underlying Medical Conditions

An underlying medical ailment could be the cause of your cat’s weight reduction or skinny looks.

A cat may lose weight as a result of many illnesses, including diabetes, kidney disease, cancers, gastrointestinal issues, and hyperthyroidism.

It’s crucial to search for further accompanying symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, lethargy, or changes in appetite in order to rule out a medical condition as the cause.

It’s imperative that you see a veterinarian if you observe any of these indicators.

To find and treat the underlying medical illness, they will perform a comprehensive examination that may involve blood testing and other diagnostic procedures.

2. Intestinal parasites

Most cats who have intestinal parasites may also lose weight and look skinny.

Your cat may be skinny or lose weight as a result of common parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or tapeworms that interfere with their capacity to absorb nutrients from food.

Be cautious of symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or an enlarged abdomen.

It is imperative that you take your cat to the veterinarian if you think they may have intestinal parasites.

To determine the exact parasite and to administer the proper deworming drugs to eradicate the infestation, the veterinarian will examine the animal’s feces.

3. Inadequate Nutrition or Poor-Quality Food

Your cat may also be skinny due to poor food quality or insufficient nourishment.

A meal rich in lipids, vitamins, minerals, and high-quality protein is necessary for cats.

They may lose weight if they are not getting enough nutrients. Ensure that the cat food you are giving them is nutritionally sound and well-balanced.

To find the ideal diet for your cat’s age, breed, and any special health needs, speak with your veterinarian.

4. Cat Disinterest in Food Type or Brand

In my opinion, your cat may become a finicky eater and lose interest in their food over time.

This means your cat may eat less and lose weight if they don’t enjoy the kind or brand of food you’re giving them.

To discover what your cat prefers, gradually try to introduce different cat food flavors or textures.

If you want to get your cat to eat, you can also try slightly heating the food or adding a small bit of wet food.

To avoid your cat getting a cat’s upset stomach, make sure that any dietary adjustments are made gradually.

5. Stress or Anxiety

Similar to us, cats may feel stressed or anxious, which may impact their eating and cause them to lose weight.

Stress can be brought on by significant environmental changes, such as moving to a new home or getting a new pet.

Cats are very sensitive animals, so even little adjustments to their daily routine or social contacts might make them anxious.

Try to locate and eliminate the triggers if you believe stress or anxiety to be the root of the problem.

Make sure your pet has lots of hiding places, safe and tranquil surroundings, and any calming medications or pheromone diffusers that your vet has advised.

Playing and interacting gently with your cat while you spend quality time together can also help lower stress levels.

6. Cat Having Dental Problems

Your cat may experience discomfort when eating due to dental problems, which could result in decreased appetite and weight loss.

Look for symptoms of dental issues in your cat’s mouth, such as red or swollen gums, foul breath, or trouble chewing.

It is imperative that you speak with your veterinarian if you see any irregularities.

They can do a comprehensive dental examination and suggest the best course of action, which might involve tooth extractions, professional cleaning, or dietary changes.

To make eating simpler for your cat in the meantime, you can offer soft or wet food.

7. Feeding Competition

Feeding competition may arise if you have more than one cat in your home.

When it comes to mealtimes, some cats are more pushy, which can limit the amount of food available to less dominant cats.

Observe how they feed themselves and make sure that every cat gets an equal amount of food.

To guarantee that every cat gets an equal amount of nourishment, setting up separate feeding stations or scheduling feedings might help minimize competition.

In order to keep one cat from controlling the water supply, it’s also critical to provide multiple water sources.

8. Cat Not Having Enough Food Intake

Sometimes, cats may not be consuming enough food to meet their nutritional needs, resulting in weight loss.

This may happen for a number of reasons, including a change in appetite, an underlying medical condition, or a hatred of the food being consumed.

First and foremost, make sure the premium cat food you are providing satisfies your cat’s unique nutritional needs.

If your cat has developed a taste for certain foods, try introducing them to a range of flavors and textures.

Watch out for any other symptoms, such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, that could point to an underlying medical issue.

It’s important to see your veterinarian if you think your cat may be sick in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and advice on changing their food or starting medication.

9. Runt of Litter

Should your feline be the smallest and most feeble of its siblings, it indicates that they were the runt of the litter.

Sometimes being the runt results in poor growth and a decreased overall size.

This may give the appearance of being thin. By comparing your cat’s weight and size to other cats of the same age and breed, you can tell if they are runts.

Ensuring your cat is eating a healthy, balanced diet is crucial in order to solve this issue. Give them premium cat food that has been specially prepared for their size and age.

Make sure they are getting enough food by keeping an eye on their eating patterns and giving them lots of fresh water.

10. Bacterial or Fungal Infection

Infections with bacteria or fungi can make cats lose weight and look skinny.

Their appetite, digestion, and nutrient absorption may all be impacted by these infections, which could result in a drop in body weight.

Lethargy, appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or coat changes are common signs of an infection.

It is important to speak with a veterinarian if you think your cat may be infected.

In order to pinpoint the exact infection, they will do a comprehensive examination and can suggest diagnostic procedures like blood work or stool analysis.

The type of illness will determine the course of treatment, which may involve taking antibiotics or antifungals.

For your cat to heal, you must make sure they take their prescription for the entire recommended duration.

Tips for Helping Your Skinny Cat Gain Weight

In my opinion, here are some of the effective strategies for helping your skinny cat:

Give a high-quality and nutrient-dense diet: Give your cat food that is both calorie- and nutrient-rich. Look for cat foods that are specifically developed for weight gain or are labeled as “high calorie.” Foods containing artificial chemicals or fillers should be avoided as they offer minimal nutritional benefits.

Feed your cat more often and in smaller pieces: Rather than giving your cat two big meals a day, think about feeding them more frequently and in smaller portions. This strategy can assist pique their appetite and keep them from becoming overly full after eating a lot of food.

Provide enticing and delicious food: Since cats can be finicky eaters, try providing them with a wide range of enticing and delicious food alternatives. Try a variety of flavors, textures, and brands to see what your cat prefers. Another option is to preheat the food just a little bit to improve its flavor and scent.

Add wet food or gravy as a supplement: Adding wet food or gravy to your cat’s dry diet will boost its calorie content and improve its appearance. Because wet food frequently contains more water, it can also help your cat stay hydrated.

Consider calorie-dense treats: Treats can be a helpful tool in encouraging weight gain. Look for calorie-dense treats that are specifically designed for weight gain. However, it’s essential to offer them in moderation to prevent overfeeding.

Minimize stress and create a calm environment: Stress can be a factor in weight loss for cats. Create a calm and peaceful environment for your cat by providing a comfortable resting area, minimizing loud noises, and reducing any sources of anxiety.

Encourage exercise: Although you want your cat to gain weight, it’s still important to encourage regular exercise. Engage in playtime with your cat using interactive toys to keep them physically active and maintain muscle tone.

Monitor progress and adjust accordingly: Keep a close eye on your cat’s weight gain progress. Regularly weigh your cat using a scale and consult with your veterinarian for guidance on adjusting the feeding plan if needed.

Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular visits to the vet are essential to monitor your cat’s weight gain progress and overall health. Your vet can provide guidance on the best strategies for your cat’s specific needs and ensure there are no underlying medical conditions hindering weight gain.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding why your cat is skinny is crucial for their overall health and happiness. From underlying medical conditions to improper diet, there are various factors to consider. By consulting with a veterinarian and implementing appropriate measures, you can help your feline friend achieve a healthy weight and enjoy a vibrant and active life together.