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Why does my kitten's belly look big when he sits or I pick him up?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 3 months and 28 days old | 10 lbs

Skye and Storm both share 1c dry kitten food per day with a small can/pouch of wet kitten food out of metal bowls. When Storm is walking around he looks normal (lean) but when he is sitting, crouched, laying down, or when i pick him up be seems to be bloated or have a big belly. I feel like he eats a bit more than Skye. Should i be concerned? What could possibly cause this?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 29th, 2018

Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. As your kitty grows, his belly will naturally look a little bigger each day. Cats often have a fat pad around their belly, which when palpated fells like fat that isn't actually in their belly, but on the outside skin area. If Storm's belly is actually big, then intestinal parasites are often the cause at this age; however you will almost always see loose or soft stool associated with this. A fecal exam and appropriate dewormer is the answer to this issue if the case. Based on your photo however, everything seems to look normal for Storm, so its best to palpate his belly or have your vet feel his belly to determine if additional testing and treatment are needed. Best wishes with your fur baby Storm moving forward! Take care.

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