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Why is my senior cat not eating, losing weight, dragging his back end?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 13 years and 11 months old

My cat of 14 years has lost a lot of weight and is not eating. He will drink a little water but wobbles when he walks. It's almost like he is dragging his back end. He is still going to the bathroom and sleeps a lot more.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on July 17th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Loss of appetite can be observed with many conditions such as gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, kidney disease, pancreatitis, among many other possibilities. The dragging you describe could be secondary to being very weak or possibly an actual condition leg or back condition such as a thrombus. I recommend that you have Mozart evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and others depending on the findings on exam. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a great day! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

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