cat losing weight-- kidney infection

[Traci]

Palpation is usually enough, combined with kidney enzyme testing (mainly bun and creat, CBC will show level of dehydration)...I think an ultrasound is reaching at this point. At least wait for the baytril dose to be finished, recheck urinalysis and take it from there.

Generally, yes, blood and urine glucose would rule diabetes in/out, but it's possible that with the concurrent weight loss, diabetes could still be a concern at some point. Sudden, drastic or persistent weight loss can always lead to potential diabetes, as well as liver disease.

I would ask again about the thyroid panel, ask about other bacterial infection (perhaps GI tract), and at some point, opt for an x-ray to at least determine true size of kidneys, and check for any signs of unrelated inflammation that could be causing the weight loss. Sometimes bloodwork alone is not enough. Vomiting or diarrhea has not been a concern, right? No blood or mucous in the stool either I presume? Appetite has not fluctuated? Have you noticed an increase in water consumption?

[Kristin]

No vomiting, no diarrhea, stools are normal looking. Wouldn't a bacterial infection show itself in those symptoms?

He has been drinking a bit more water, but I attributed that to the heat (I am in GA and it has been over 90 degrees and very humid lately). He has been eating a bit less this Summer and doesn't seem to want as much of the dry food, but still eats the canned food with zest.

I guess I will finish the course of Baytril, then retest thyroid and urine as you suggested, and go from there. The weight loss concerns me greatly, though.

[Traci]

Some bacterial infections present no obvious signs and symptoms. Others do of course (i.e., urinary tract, GI may produce blood or mucous, runny stools, etc)

The only other thing I can think of concerning the weight loss, providing all the other differentials are done/ruled out.....is oral health problems, such as inflammed gums, diseased teeth, ulcers, etc making it painful for him to eat. Did he ever have a full oral exam? Has he ever had any dental work done previously? If oral exam wasn't done or investigated, that might be something you might want to check during next visit, a quick exam is usually all that's necessary to detect oral ulcers or diseased teeth/abcesses.

Unrelated, but did your vet test for FELV/FIV?

[Kristin]

Yes, just tested negative for FELV/FIV.

An oral exam is a good idea, he has no previous dental work besides my brushing his teeth at home.

Thanks again, I will keep you updated.