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Why is my 12-year-old Ragdoll underweight, picky, and vomiting?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Male | neutered | 12 years and 10 months old | 10 lbs

My 12 year old Ragdoll weighs 10 pounds and I can feel his backbone. He is VERY particular and throwsup often. It's yellow/brown with some undigested and some slime. Other times he throws up white foam. His brother is only 6 and weighs a healthy 16 pounds. He only vomits hairballs or when he eats too fast. Any suggestions?? Thanks you

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on July 20th, 2019

Hi there. There are many different medical issues that can cause older cats to be picky eaters, and have recurring vomiting issues and weight loss. Some common possibilities would include chronic pancreatitis or IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, or diabetes. I would recommend taking Riley to the vet for an exam. He/she can do blood work or other testing if needed to help determine what is causing these symptoms and get him started on appropriate treatment.

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