Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 7/28/2008

Question
Good Evening,

I have a 3 year old male ragdoll cat that lately has lost a lot of weight and has been throwing up what looks like hot dog shaped material that smells like cat food. He also recently has started to have black spots of fur appear on both sides. I am not sure what could be going on with him and really do not have the money to take him to a vet right now. I have not changed his food and he has been eating Iams dry food since he was a kitten. I have a female ragdoll that is fine and shows none of the symptoms that he is having. The symptoms started about a month ago. Any advice on what could be the cause would be appreciated. I have thought of changing his food to see if that helps.

Answer
Tara -

Sounds like your cat may be have several hairballs; the hot dog shaped hairball can be an indication that your cat is constipated. Even if the cat is having regular bowel movements,  constipation can be a big problem.  Indoor cats are notorious for having bouts of constipation without the owner noticing it.  Feeding canned food can help to minimize the incidence of constipation.  Also adding fiber to his food may help if he is constipated.

If he has lost lots of weight, it is important to have him evaluated by a veterinarian.  Weight loss in cats can be very serious; vomiting can also be a sign of something serious.  

A change in food may not be a good thing.  Talk with your vet to determine the next route.


Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM