1st May 2006

My 21-year-old cat is finding it difficult to hold her head up. What could be wrong with her?

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Question:

My 21-year-old cat, Marmy, is active, not on medication and has a healthy appetite. However, she is very skinny and is finding it difficult to hold her head up. I took her to the vet and was told that her condition was nothing more than old age. I can feel no swelling or bumps and she is showing no signs of being in pain. What is your opinion?

Answer:

Hyperthyroidism – an over-active thyroid gland – is a common cause of weight loss or poor body condition in the face of a good or ravenous appetite in older cats. Other symptoms may include excessive thirst, poor coat condition, hyperactivity, vomiting and diarrhea. A blood test is required to diagnose the condition and treatment is either surgical removal of the affected gland(s) or tablets that block hormone release from the thyroid tissue. Weakness in the neck muscles can be a result of a low blood potassium level, which again can be diagnosed via a blood test. You may need to ask your vet if further investigation is warranted in Marmy's case.