Updated March 04, 2021:
Not only is weight loss a common sign of Feline Chronic Kidney Disease, but early research shows that it may actually be an early indicator of Feline CKD even in the absence of other signs or confirming test results.* This is a subject that merits further investigation. Be very alert to changes in your cat's weight, and consider weighing your cat at home once or twice a month, even if he/she has no other signs of illness. (It is best to weigh your cat at the same time of day each time, if possible.) The easiest way we've found is to get on a scale while holding your cat, then get on the scale alone, and record the difference in weight. Some people also report success in placing their cat on a baby scale to check their weight. If your cat is losing weight, it's time for a trip to the vet.
Also, please make sure that your vet checks and records your cat's weight at each yearly checkup (twice yearly for seniors). With diligence, trends can be spotted over time that may be helpful in detecting diseases, including Chronic Kidney Disease, earlier in your cat.
*For more information, please see the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine article:
Evaluation of Weight Loss Over Time in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease
J Vet Intern Med. 2016 Sep-Oct; 30(5): 1661–1666.
Not only is weight loss a common sign of Feline Chronic Kidney Disease, but early research shows that it may actually be an early indicator of Feline CKD even in the absence of other signs or confirming test results.* This is a subject that merits further investigation. Be very alert to changes in your cat's weight, and consider weighing your cat at home once or twice a month, even if he/she has no other signs of illness. (It is best to weigh your cat at the same time of day each time, if possible.) The easiest way we've found is to get on a scale while holding your cat, then get on the scale alone, and record the difference in weight. Some people also report success in placing their cat on a baby scale to check their weight. If your cat is losing weight, it's time for a trip to the vet.
Also, please make sure that your vet checks and records your cat's weight at each yearly checkup (twice yearly for seniors). With diligence, trends can be spotted over time that may be helpful in detecting diseases, including Chronic Kidney Disease, earlier in your cat.
*For more information, please see the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine article:
Evaluation of Weight Loss Over Time in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease
J Vet Intern Med. 2016 Sep-Oct; 30(5): 1661–1666.
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