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Why is my old cat congested, sneezing, and rapidly losing weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Siberian | Male | 16 years and 11 months old | 11.5 lbs

I have a 17 year old cat that is very congested and is sneezing alot it was an no and off thing now its not going away also he was 15 pounds two months ago now hes about 11 to 12 pounds

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 12th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Andrew! Causes of nasal congestion are: upper respiratory infection either viral or bacteria, fungal infections, and cancer. If the congestion has been going on for awhile he should be evaluated and at a minimum started on antibiotics. The weight loss concerns me in an older cat. I recommend full blood work: CBC/Chem/T4 and urine. Common causes of weight loss in older cats are: kidney or liver disease, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), diabetes and cancer. I would take him in to your Vet for an exam and blood work. I hope this helps and I wish Andrew the best!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 12th, 2018

    Cinnamon is lovely looking cat! I'd take her into a vet today or tomorrow. Given that it's really cold, her nasal passages could be dried out, leading to trauma to the nasal passages when sneezing and the subsequent bleeding. Senior cats can also have problems with their health such as kidney failure, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and cancer causing weight loss. I think it's a good idea to have a heath check done as well as a geriatric blood panel and urinalysis. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 28th, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Benny. His symptoms are worrisome. He needs to see a veterinarian to determine if he has a severe chronic respiratory infection or something more severe such as a nasal tumor. Antibiotics may help the sneezing. If not, I worry that it is a fungal infection or a tumor. I hope this information helps!

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