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Why is my cat losing weight and has painless lumps on his side?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old

My Male 1 year old cat has these lumps on his side. I’ve only just noticed when I was brushing him, they don’t appear to hurt as he let me touch them. However he has lost weight despite no change in his diet or appetite. He is still very active and his temperament hasn’t changed. These were the best photos I could gather. Thanks

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1 Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on April 28th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! These could be benign or malignant growths. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

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