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Why is my senior cat matted, losing weight, and sleeping more?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 11 lbs

My Male cat is up there in age, we're not fully sure 12 to 16 ish. He's recently been getting mats on his thighs and dandruff, which has never happened. He's sleeping more, mainly with myself, and lost a small amount of weight. I looked up the signs and it says it could be diabetes, but I was hoping one of you had a better idea of what it might be.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 25th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If he has a great appetite, hyperthyroid disease is forstbon my list. If his appetite is the same or decreased, kidney disease is first on my list. If he is obese, diabetes is certainly possible too. Finally, arthritis is also a cause of lethargy and matting of the fur (because it hurts to groom normally). Finally, cancer in any location can cause lethargy and weight loss. Long story short, he’ll need a good physical exam and probably some bloodwork if you want to figure out the root cause of what is going on. Best wishes to you and Raffle.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 20th, 2019

    In senior cats, there are three common conditions that can cause Boo's symptoms: Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and kidney disease. Treatment drops online will do nothing to help him, if he has one of these three diseases, he needs treatment from the vet. I would take him into one first thing in the morning for a geriatric blood panel and urinalysis. Best of luck.

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