skinny cat

[fanny]

I have a two year old male neutered cat (Gizmo) that we adopted from a local shelter. He is very timid and runs and hides in the garage most of the time. I am concerned that he is so skinny. He is tall and very long legged and he is also allergic to flea bites and has lost some hair due to scratching and licking which makes him look even more skinny! Poor fellow. Can anyone recommend a high cal. cat food that will help fatten him up?

[Tina B and crew]

Hi...I'd suggest having him checked by your vet before you do anything, if you haven't already done this. Your vet can help in deciding whether your cat is truly underweight and check for any underlying problems there may be that cause this. If he is truly allergic to flea bites I'd recommend using Advantage to combat the fleas. We have one who is extremely allergic and even though she is an indoor only cat (with her only outdoor exposure being a screened porch) Advantage has greatly helped her with her flea allergies.

[Traci]

If you're allowing him outside, chances are, he has parasites (worms)

Please, get him seen and examined by your vet IMMEDIATELY...for deworming, testing for FELV/FIV, vaccinated where necessary, etc. Your vet will determine his overall health status and will then discuss a diet for him for his needs in particular. Don't wait on this please, get him seen NOW.