INCREASED APPETITE (POLYPHAGIA) IN DOGS/CATS
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
When hunger increases well beyond normal, it often reflects hormonal imbalance, poor nutrient absorption, or early metabolic disease.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD OR SELF-LIMITING CAUSES
• Growth stage in young pets
• Seasonal appetite changes
• Increased activity
• Competition in multi-pet homes
• Behavioral food-seeking
MEDICAL CAUSES THAT NEED DIAGNOSIS
• Cushing’s disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Hyperthyroidism (cats)
• Intestinal parasites
• EPI (pancreatic insufficiency)
• Steroid medications
• Malabsorption syndromes
EMERGENCY CAUSES
• Diabetes with ketoacidosis
• Severe hyperthyroidism
• GI obstruction causing “false hunger”
RED FLAGS
• Weight loss + increased appetite
• Excessive thirst
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Ravenous, frantic eating
• If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE
• Avoid free-feeding
• Switch to structured meals
• Remove high-calorie treats
These steps do not replace veterinary evaluation
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Bloodwork
• Glucose
• Thyroid levels
• Cortisol for Cushing’s
• Fecal parasite testing
• GI absorption panel
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Hyperthyroidism
• Cushing’s
• Diabetes
• Parasites
• EPI
• Food insecurity/behavioral
RISK FACTORS
• Older cats (hyperthyroid)
• Middle-aged dogs (Cushing’s)
• German Shepherds (EPI)
WHEN TO SCHEDULE
• Today: weight loss + big appetite
• 48 hrs: persistent change
• Monitor 1 week: mild increase
EXPECTED RECOVERY
• Parasites: 1–2 weeks
• Hyperthyroid: improves in 2–6 weeks
• Cushing’s: steady improvement
• EPI: rapid correction with enzymes
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Increased appetite often appears early in endocrine decline—the sooner corrected, the longer the healthspan.
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Highly recommended for senior cats or middle-aged dogs.
FAQ
Could this just be aging?
Not usually.
Is it safe to reduce food?
Yes, moderately.
Could it be psychological?
Possibly, but rule out medical.