Is it Normal for a Cat with Lymphoma on Chemotherapy to Have an Inconsistent Appetite?

Dear VetBabble,

I have a cat named Trix who has small cell lymphoma and has been under treatment for 3 months. She takes Leukeran, prednisolone, mirtazapine, and Cerenia. Her appetite is generally decent, but she never sticks to one type of food, and I’m having trouble finding something she’ll consistently eat. Is this normal for a cat undergoing chemotherapy? What can I do to help her maintain her appetite?

Understanding and Managing Your Cat’s Appetite During Chemotherapy

It’s distressing for any pet owner to see their beloved companion go through cancer treatment, not to mention dealing with a fluctuating appetite. It’s not uncommon for cats to have a decreased appetite while undergoing chemotherapy, and this can be influenced by various factors, including the cancer itself and the medications they are on. It’s essential to keep your veterinarian informed about your cat’s eating habits, as they may recommend adjusting the medications or trying other treatments to address the issue.

Tips for Encouraging Your Cat to Eat During Treatment

Finding the right food for a cat undergoing cancer treatment can be challenging, especially if they appear to lose interest in their favorite food. Here are some tips to encourage your cat to eat:

• Offer a variety: Some cats enjoy alternating between different types of food. Trying a buffet of various flavors and textures may help you discover what your cat prefers at the moment. Consult our guide on How to Pick the Best Cat Food and Ensure a Balanced Diet for suggestions.
• Warm the food: Just like humans, some cats find warmed food more appealing. Try microwaving your cat’s meal for a few seconds to release the aroma and enhance the taste (but always check the temperature before serving).
• Consider prescription diets: While your cat may have grown tired of her previous prescription foods, don’t give up entirely on these specially formulated options. You can ask your veterinarian about other prescription diets that could benefit Trix during her treatment.
• Appetite stimulants: In some cases, vets may recommend appetite stimulants like mirtazapine to help improve your cat’s appetite. However, always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new medication.

When to Consult Your Veterinarian

While it’s normal for a cat’s appetite to fluctuate during cancer treatment, it’s crucial to communicate with your veterinarian about any changes. In some cases, they may recommend adjustments to your cat’s medications or additional treatments to address the underlying concerns. If Trix’s appetite continues to be a problem, your vet may consider more invasive measures, such as placing a feeding tube to provide necessary nutrition.

The most important thing is to keep an open line of communication with your vet and follow up on any concerns you have regarding Trix’s health. Remember, you are not alone in facing these challenges; there is support available from your veterinary team and fellow cat owners with similar experiences. You may find some helpful advice and tips in these articles as well: My Cat Won’t Eat! What Should I Do?, Kidney Disease in Cats, and First Aid Guide for Cats.

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