Question

My cat has been the same weight for the last six years. Over the last week, he seems to have gained a pound or two. He has been much more active as well. He constantly tries to get people to play with him and pet him, which is unusual behavior. He is eight years old. Is this normal?

Answer

No, it would not be considered typical for a cat to suddenly gain a great deal of weight. As cats age it is not uncommon for their metabolism to slow down, causing weight gain. However, rarely do you see it in a short period of time.

Also, the increase in attention seeking behavior at the same time would be odd. Usually cats will get less active as they age.

It may not be a serious medical condition, but if you have not had him in to see your veterinarian recently, I would strongly recommend a checkup. Generally, cats are considered in their senior years when they reach seven to eight years old. It is always good to have a physical examination and to consider some basic testing (lab analysis of a blood sample) to make sure that the recent changes are not indicative of a serious condition.

This question was answered by AAHA member Dr. Robert J. Krapfl of Gentle Doctor Animal Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska