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My senior cat has swollen paws, weakness, and weight loss. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 11 years and 10 months old

Have a geriatric cat about 11 or 12. Front and back paws on 1 side are swollen and he seems weaker on that side. Been a few weeks and still bigger than the other side and now 1 rear toe is a little ulcerated near the nail bed. Did have a blown pupil for a few hours about a month back. Is eating,drinking and doing his business but have noticed some weight loss that I attributed to old age. have 3 other cats and its a delicate balance with them getting along so I know theres stress.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 2nd, 2018

Hi. Robbie is having some serious health issues it sounds like. He could have high blood pressure, cardiac disease, a neurologiccondition, or even cancer! There is no way to know without a full exam and diagnostics. I recommend getting him in to be seen right away!

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