Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

How long will it take for my thin cat to gain weight and be healthy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 2 months old | 9 lbs

How long/ many days, weeks, or months an underweight cat would be in ideal weight when i start feeding him?? I adopt a poor cat and hes very thin. I started to feed him and i just wonder if when can he become in ideal weight?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 18th, 2017

If he is only underweight because he was malnourished (not fed enough food), then you can expect weight gain within 1-3 months. He should steadily gin weight throughout. However if there are other underlying factors such as intestinal parasites, pancreatic disease, a malabsorption problem, or even thyroid disease, then there will be little to no weight gain. It is best to have Oreo examined by a vet and at the very least have a fecal exam done to rule out intestinal parasites. You can also try giving Oreo a broad spectrum dewormer (i.e. Pyrantel palmitate, Fenbendazole) from your local pet store for prophylactic purposes. Best of luck with your new pet Oreo and I hope you can get some weight on him soon.

Vote icon

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored