Elderly cat getting very thin.

I think everyone is pretty accurate about you old lady, mine went the same way very thin but eating normally she also got vocal at night. She was 21 and been healthy all her life apart from an accident, I didn't want to inflict a daily tablet fight on her either so I pampered her for a few months she gradually became incontinent and stopped going outside or cleaning herself, the day she couldn't walk to her tray was the day I knew it was time.. I gave her a favourite meal and she passed away on my lap at the vets.. the fact she'd had such a long and happy life made it a little easier to take that last step. You'll know when the time comes I'm sure..

Thank you for the replies, they are appreciated.

artygran I know that thyroid problems are treatable, but I don't think she would relish me forcing pills down her on a daily basis!

expat I think you are right, she is, after all a very old lady. 2 years ago she was unwell and ended having major surgery. The easiest way to describe what was wrong was a twisted gut, the vet said it was quite common in cats under 1 year, but not in ladies of a certain age! She made a fantastic recovery, so I suppose we have had extra time. By the way, the bill was over £600!

My Rosie (very much MY cat) died when she was 24. She got thinner, her fur was a mess, but she ate, drank, (and other vital things) and came to greet me when I got in. (Well, when she realised I'd got in - she was deaf.) Then she'd sit on my knee and purr. So I said we'd let her decide, and one day her body just gave up; we took her to the vet and she died in my arms. But I think she was happy. Oh dear...

expatmaggie is right, 20 is a very good innings for a cat- but I know that does not make it any easier. Yes, pamper him, as said give him some extra special food to enjoy, lots of cuddles. I feel perhaps the best reward we can often our wonderful pets is to recognize when it is time to allow them a painless exit. Not time yet, as he seems to be still enjoying life, albeit at a slower pace.

I think it is the beginning of the end. Somehow what she's eating is not being properly digested. If she's jumping onto beds and sofas then she's good for a while yet. Just care for her, perhaps cook for her yourself. I usually buy frozen fish and let it sit in a little slightly salted water until its done. Then I flake the fish and put it with the liquid in the cat's dish. Usually they love to drink the fish liquid even if they don't eat all the fish.
It could be that one day she will go missing. Cats very often seek out a dark place to spend their last hours.

I wish I could be more cheerful but if she is 20 then there is little hope a vet could do anything about it.

Phoenix how worrying for you. We had exactly the same problem with our dear old cat just before we moved last year. I couldn't believe how thin she went in spite of eating normally. The vet did blood tests and diagnosed a thyroid complaint. She put her on daily medication (Felimazole). Unfortunately, after a few months, she had a set back and we had to face the worst. But she was seventeen. Do get your vet to look at her, because if it is a thyroid complaint it can be managed.