Old cat going bald

Question
Our cat is at least 14 years old (the neighbors abandoned her when they moved and we have had her for 14 years, she was not a kitten when we got her).  She is a long haired cat, but lately she has been losing a lot of hair on her sides and back and is always hungry.  Is this a sign she might have cancer or is getting closer to her final days?

Answer
Kim,

Your cat is a minimum (at 14 years old) of 72 years old in human years. AT that age things start giving out. But from your description my guess would be the cat may have a thyroid problem, or hyperthyroidism and needs to be seen by the vet very soon.

Hyperthyroidism (there is also Hypothyroidism) is generally an older cat disease with cats being diagnosed with it at an average age of 13. Signs include increased appetite with weight loss and poor coat condition (or hair loss) among others. If not treated it can lead to cardiac arrest or serious heart problems. It is treatable. The vet needs to do a T4 test to find out more.

I am including some informative links on hyperthyroidism that you may find helpful. Copy and paste, or type, the whole links into your address bar:

http://maxshouse.com/Hyperthyroidism_in_Cats.htm

http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/hyperthyroidism2.html

There are other geriatric cat problems that are similar to hyperthyroidism also. The cat needs an "older cat checkup". Besides checking the cat's thyroid, the liver and kidneys need to be tested.

I am also including some very good links to articles about geriatric cats and their health and care:

http://cats.about.com/lr/geriatric_cat_diseases/92148/2/

http://www.sniksnak.com/resources/geriatric.html

http://www.messybeast.com/towards-end.htm

A geriatric cat also needs a different diet than a younger cat. As they get older their metabolism changes resulting in different requirements and needs.

Not counting being geriatric, your cat's eating habits may also be due to worms or parasites. Her fur falling out may be due to stress, or poor grooming because of loss of teeth.

Your vet can tell you more by physically examining the cat, which of course I can't do (unless you want to fax her to me! (smile)).

I hope this has been helpful.