What to Ask Your Veterinarian When Your Cat Is Drinking More or Losing Weight

Cats are subtle about illness, so measurable changes like drinking more water or losing weight are worth an appointment rather than a wait and see approach. This article is preparation guidance only and does not diagnose or recommend treatment.

General education only. This article does not diagnose conditions, recommend treatments, or provide dosing. Every medication decision must be made with your veterinarian, who knows your pet's history and current health.

What to record before the appointment

• Roughly how much water is being consumed, and whether the change is recent or gradual.
• Weight readings if you have them, including dates.
• Litter box changes, including volume, frequency, and any accidents outside the box.
• Appetite changes, including eating more than usual as well as eating less.
• Coat condition, grooming habits, activity level, and vocalizing at night.
• All current medications and supplements.

A simple home scale reading every couple of weeks gives your veterinarian a trend, which is far more useful than a single number.

Questions to ask

• What conditions are you considering based on the examination?
• What bloodwork or urine testing do you recommend, and what would each result tell us?
• How quickly should we investigate?
• If something is found, what does ongoing management usually involve?
• What monitoring will be needed over time?

Why testing matters here

Increased thirst and weight loss overlap across several conditions that are managed very differently. Testing is what separates them. Your veterinarian will explain which tests are being suggested and why, and it is entirely reasonable to ask about the cost of each step upfront.

If a long term prescription follows

Several conditions seen in older cats involve long term medication and periodic rechecks. Once your veterinarian sends a prescription to VetFaster, refills can be delivered across Alberta within 72 hours, and you may save up to 40% on eligible prescribed pet medications compared with typical clinic pricing.

How ordering works with VetFaster

VetFaster is a prescription coordination and delivery service. It is not a veterinary clinic and does not decide what your pet is prescribed. Your veterinarian writes the prescription and sends it to VetFaster directly by fax at +1 825-256-5399, then the order is filled and shipped to you.

• Your veterinarian examines your pet and issues the prescription.
• The clinic sends the prescription to VetFaster on your behalf.
• You can create a VetFaster account and review your order online.
• Delivery across Alberta within 72 hours.

You can read the full process on the How It Works page, browse what is stocked on the pet medication catalogue, or check coverage on the Alberta service area page.

Next step

For ongoing feline prescriptions authorized by your veterinarian, VetFaster handles refills and delivery. Sign up with VetFaster and ask your veterinary clinic to send the prescription over by fax. Questions first? Use the contact page or read the frequently asked questions.

Related reading

• Methimazole and Felimazole for cats in Alberta
• ProZinc for cats in Alberta
• Senior cat mobility changes to record